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The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and 1977 Ducati 900GTS are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1977 Ducati 900GTS, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin power, delivering 67hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 195km/h (121 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1977 Ducati 900GTS, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin power, delivering 67hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 195km/h (121 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 | 1977 Ducati 900GTS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1286 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 120 hp | 67 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 64.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 195 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 297.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 327.0 kg | 231.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1580 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 27.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 has the edge thanks to more power (120hp vs 67hp) and a higher top speed. The 1977 Ducati 900GTS, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300
Born in 1979, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 is a 1286cc six-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 120hp from Kawasaki.
Full 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 Profile →About the 1977 Ducati 900GTS
The 1977 1977 Ducati 900GTS packs a 864cc SOHC L-twin engine with 67hp into a touring motorcycle package from Ducati.
Full 1977 Ducati 900GTS Profile →