VS
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade 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 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade by contrast offered 1360cc of DOHC V-4 power, delivering 100hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 340.0kg (750 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 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 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade by contrast offered 1360cc of DOHC V-4 power, delivering 100hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 340.0kg (750 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
| 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 | 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1286 cc | 1360 cc |
| Power | 120 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 120.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 297.0 kg | 340.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 327.0 kg | 370.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1580 mm | 1640 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 27.0 L | 25.0 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 100hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade, 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.
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 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade
Introduced in 1985, the 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade features a 1360cc DOHC V-4 engine producing 100hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.
Full 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade Profile →