VS
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 both compete in the touring segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
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 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 by contrast offered 1097cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 125hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 245.0kg (540 lbs) with a top speed of 240km/h (149 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 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 by contrast offered 1097cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 125hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 245.0kg (540 lbs) with a top speed of 240km/h (149 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 | 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1286 cc | 1097 cc |
| Power | 120 hp | 125 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 100.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 240 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 297.0 kg | 245.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 327.0 kg | 265.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1580 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 27.0 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 has the edge thanks to more power (125hp vs 120hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. 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 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 — 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 1984 Yamaha FJ1100
Born in 1984, the 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 is a 1097cc four-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 125hp from Yamaha.
Full 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 Profile →