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The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 and 1983 Triumph T140 TSX 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 1983 Triumph T140 TSX, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 744cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 188.0kg (414 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 1983 Triumph T140 TSX, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 744cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 188.0kg (414 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 | 1983 Triumph T140 TSX | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1089 cc | 744 cc |
| Power | 108 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 92.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 250.0 kg | 188.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 270.0 kg | 202.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1410 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 14.0 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 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1983 Triumph T140 TSX, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is good for the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 and moderate for the 1983 Triumph T140 TSX — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 1983 Triumph T140 TSX
Introduced in 1983, the 1983 Triumph T140 TSX features a 744cc OHV twin engine producing 50hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1983 Triumph T140 TSX Profile →