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The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 and 1985 BMW K75 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 1985 BMW K75, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 740cc of DOHC inline-3 power, delivering 75hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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 1985 BMW K75, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 740cc of DOHC inline-3 power, delivering 75hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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 | 1985 BMW K75 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1089 cc | 740 cc |
| Power | 108 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 92.0 Nm | 66.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 250.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 270.0 kg | 228.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1496 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 21.0 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 75hp) and a higher top speed. The 1985 BMW K75, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package.
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 1985 BMW K75
Born in 1985, the 1985 BMW K75 is a 740cc triple-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 75hp from BMW.
Full 1985 BMW K75 Profile →