VS
The 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European and 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 both compete in the touring segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European from Japan was powered by a 1084cc DOHC V-4 producing 100hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 268.0kg (591 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 by contrast offered 1286cc of DOHC inline-6 power, delivering 120hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 297.0kg (655 lbs) with a top speed of 220km/h (137 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1990s motorcycles represent peak analog engineering before electronics took over. Original, low-mileage examples are beginning to appreciate.
The 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European from Japan was powered by a 1084cc DOHC V-4 producing 100hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 268.0kg (591 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 by contrast offered 1286cc of DOHC inline-6 power, delivering 120hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 297.0kg (655 lbs) with a top speed of 220km/h (137 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1990s motorcycles represent peak analog engineering before electronics took over. Original, low-mileage examples are beginning to appreciate.
Specifications Comparison
| 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European | 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1084 cc | 1286 cc |
| Power | 100 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 106.0 Nm | 108.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 6 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 220 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 268.0 kg | 297.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 303.0 kg | 327.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1555 mm | 1580 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 28.0 L | 27.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two tourings are remarkably well-matched. With 100hp versus 120hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. For collectors, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European and moderate for the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European
The 1991 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European is a 1084cc four-cylinder touring motorcycle that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1990s.
Full 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European Profile →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 →