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The 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 and 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 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 KZ1100 by contrast offered 1089cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 108hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 250.0kg (551 lbs) with a top speed of 225km/h (140 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 KZ1100 by contrast offered 1089cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 108hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 250.0kg (551 lbs) with a top speed of 225km/h (140 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 KZ1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1015 cc | 1089 cc |
| Power | 83 hp | 108 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 92.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 225 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 245.0 kg | 250.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 265.0 kg | 270.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 19.0 L | 20.0 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 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 pushed output to 108hp. 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 KZ1100
Introduced in 1981, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 features a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 108hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 Profile →