VS
The 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 and 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 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 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 by contrast offered 553cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 58hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 194.0kg (428 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 by contrast offered 553cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 58hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 194.0kg (428 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 | 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1015 cc | 553 cc |
| Power | 83 hp | 58 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 47.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 245.0 kg | 194.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 265.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 19.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -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 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 pushed output to 58hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
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 1981 Kawasaki GPz550
The 1981 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 is a 553cc four-cylinder sport bike that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 Profile →