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The 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R and 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer are both iconic 1970s cafe racers that defined their respective markets.
The 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R from Japan was powered by a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 producing 90hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 240.0kg (529 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at cafe racer riders.
The 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 998cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 61hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R from Japan was powered by a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 producing 90hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 240.0kg (529 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at cafe racer riders.
The 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 998cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 61hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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
| 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R | 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1015 cc | 998 cc |
| Power | 90 hp | 61 hp |
| Torque | 82.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 240.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 245.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1505 mm | 1480 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 19.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure cafe racer performance, the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R has the edge thanks to more power (90hp vs 61hp) and a higher top speed. The 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer, however, excels when spirited café-racer style riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is good for the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R and moderate for the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R
Kawasaki released the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R in 1978 with a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 90hp — a definitive cafe racer.
Full 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R Profile →About the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer
A cafe racer from 1977, the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer delivers 61hp from its 998cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine.
Full 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer Profile →