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The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 and 1980 Yamaha XJ650 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 Yamaha XJ650 by contrast offered 653cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 71hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 Yamaha XJ650 by contrast offered 653cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 71hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 Yamaha XJ650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1089 cc | 653 cc |
| Power | 108 hp | 71 hp |
| Torque | 92.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 250.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 270.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 has the edge thanks to more power (108hp vs 71hp) and a higher top speed. The 1980 Yamaha XJ650, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 commands more attention with a 5/10 collectibility rating.
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 Yamaha XJ650
Born in 1980, the 1980 Yamaha XJ650 is a 653cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 71hp from Yamaha.
Full 1980 Yamaha XJ650 Profile →