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The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 and 1984 Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
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 1984 Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja by contrast offered 908cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 115hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 228.0kg (503 lbs) with a top speed of 250km/h (155 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 1984 Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja by contrast offered 908cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 115hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 228.0kg (503 lbs) with a top speed of 250km/h (155 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 | 1984 Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1089 cc | 908 cc |
| Power | 108 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque | 92.0 Nm | 86.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/h | 250 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 250.0 kg | 228.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 270.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1495 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 laid the groundwork with 108hp, while the later 1984 Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja pushed output to 115hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1984 Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
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 1984 Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja
Introduced in 1984, the 1984 Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja features a 908cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 115hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1984 Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja Profile →