The 1978 Honda CBX from Japan was powered by a 1047cc DOHC inline-6 producing 105hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 247.0kg (545 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator by contrast offered 902cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 105hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 241.0kg (531 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 Honda CBX | 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1047 cc | 902 cc |
| Power | 105 hp | 105 hp |
| Torque | 85.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 247.0 kg | 241.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 272.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1550 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 22.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1978 Honda CBX is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator targets relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort. Both produce identical power at 105hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1978 Honda CBX if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator for relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort. Parts availability is good for the 1978 Honda CBX and moderate for the 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1978 Honda CBX
The 1978 1978 Honda CBX packs a 1047cc DOHC inline-6 engine with 105hp into a standard motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1978 Honda CBX Profile →About the 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator
The 1985 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator packs a 902cc DOHC inline-4 engine with 105hp into a cruiser package from Kawasaki.
Full 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator Profile →