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The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and 1978 BMW R80/7 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 1978 BMW R80/7, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 798cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 1978 BMW R80/7, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 798cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 | 1978 BMW R80/7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1286 cc | 798 cc |
| Power | 120 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 297.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 327.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1580 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 27.0 L | 22.0 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 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1978 BMW R80/7, 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. Parts availability is moderate for the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and good for the 1978 BMW R80/7 — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 1978 BMW R80/7
A touring motorcycle from 1978, the 1978 BMW R80/7 delivers 50hp from its 798cc OHV flat-twin engine.
Full 1978 BMW R80/7 Profile →