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The 1985 Honda XBR500 and 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 are both iconic 1980s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1985 Honda XBR500 from Japan was powered by a 499cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 161.0kg (355 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 by contrast offered 1089cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 108hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 250.0kg (551 lbs) with a top speed of 225km/h (140 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 1985 Honda XBR500 from Japan was powered by a 499cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 161.0kg (355 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 by contrast offered 1089cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 108hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 250.0kg (551 lbs) with a top speed of 225km/h (140 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
| 1985 Honda XBR500 | 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 499 cc | 1089 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 108 hp |
| Torque | 42.0 Nm | 92.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 225 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 161.0 kg | 250.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 176.0 kg | 270.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1395 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 20.0 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 44hp) and a higher top speed. The 1985 Honda XBR500, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1985 Honda XBR500 and good for the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1985 Honda XBR500
Honda released the 1985 Honda XBR500 in 1985 with a 499cc SOHC single RFVC powerplant making 44hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1985 Honda XBR500 Profile →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 →