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The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 from Japan was powered by a 553cc DOHC inline-4 producing 58hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 194.0kg (428 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 by contrast offered 738cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 83hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 218.0kg (481 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 GPz550 from Japan was powered by a 553cc DOHC inline-4 producing 58hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 194.0kg (428 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 by contrast offered 738cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 83hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 218.0kg (481 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 GPz550 | 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 553 cc | 738 cc |
| Power | 58 hp | 83 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 65.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 194.0 kg | 218.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 236.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 laid the groundwork with 58hp, while the later 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 pushed output to 83hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
About the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550
The 1981 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 is a 553cc four-cylinder sport bike that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 Profile →About the 1982 Kawasaki GPz750
A sport bike from 1982, the 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 delivers 83hp from its 738cc DOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1982 Kawasaki GPz750 Profile →