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The 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R and 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R from Japan was powered by a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 producing 90hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 240.0kg (529 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at cafe racer 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 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R from Japan was powered by a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 producing 90hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 240.0kg (529 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at cafe racer 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
| 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R | 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1015 cc | 553 cc |
| Power | 90 hp | 58 hp |
| Torque | 82.0 Nm | 47.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 240.0 kg | 194.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1505 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 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R laid the groundwork with 90hp, while the later 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 pushed output to 58hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
About the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R
Kawasaki released the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R in 1978 with a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 90hp — a definitive cafe racer.
Full 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R 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 →