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The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 and 1980 Suzuki GS1100 are both iconic 1980s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 from Japan was powered by a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 producing 108hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 250.0kg (551 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1980 Suzuki GS1100 by contrast offered 1074cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 100hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 241.0kg (531 lbs) with a top speed of 225km/h (140 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 from Japan was powered by a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 producing 108hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 250.0kg (551 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1980 Suzuki GS1100 by contrast offered 1074cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 100hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 241.0kg (531 lbs) with a top speed of 225km/h (140 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 | 1980 Suzuki GS1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1089 cc | 1074 cc |
| Power | 108 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 92.0 Nm | 87.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/h | 225 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 250.0 kg | 241.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 270.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two standards are remarkably well-matched. With 108hp versus 100hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference.
About the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100
Introduced in 1981, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 features a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 108hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 Profile →About the 1980 Suzuki GS1100
Introduced in 1980, the 1980 Suzuki GS1100 features a 1074cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 100hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1980 Suzuki GS1100 Profile →