The 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European from Japan was powered by a 1084cc DOHC V-4 producing 100hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 268.0kg (591 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at touring 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. 1990s motorcycles represent peak analog engineering before electronics took over. Original, low-mileage examples are beginning to appreciate.
Specifications Comparison
| 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European | 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1084 cc | 1089 cc |
| Power | 100 hp | 108 hp |
| Torque | 106.0 Nm | 92.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 225 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 268.0 kg | 250.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 303.0 kg | 270.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1555 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 28.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European is built for long-distance touring with passenger comfort, while the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 targets all-round versatility and everyday riding. On paper, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100's 108hp trumps the 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European's 100hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European if you value long-distance touring with passenger comfort; pick the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 for all-round versatility and everyday riding.
About the 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European
The 1991 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European is a 1084cc four-cylinder touring motorcycle that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1990s.
Full 1991 Honda ST1100 Pan European 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 →