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The 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 and 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 from Japan was powered by a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 producing 83hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 245.0kg (540 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 by contrast offered 1286cc of DOHC inline-6 power, delivering 120hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 297.0kg (655 lbs) with a top speed of 220km/h (137 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 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 from Japan was powered by a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 producing 83hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 245.0kg (540 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 by contrast offered 1286cc of DOHC inline-6 power, delivering 120hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 297.0kg (655 lbs) with a top speed of 220km/h (137 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
| 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 | 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1015 cc | 1286 cc |
| Power | 83 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 108.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 6 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 220 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 245.0 kg | 297.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 265.0 kg | 327.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1580 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 19.0 L | 27.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 laid the groundwork with 83hp, while the later 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 pushed output to 120hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 7/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is good for the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 and moderate for the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000
Kawasaki released the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 in 1977 with a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 83hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 Profile →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 →