1974 Kawasaki KZ400
The 1974 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 is a 398cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- DOHC twin
- Displacement
- 398 cc
- Cylinders
- 2
- Power
- 36 hp @ 8500 rpm
- Torque
- 32.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 64.0 × 62.0 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- 2x Mikuni carburetors
Chassis & Transmission
- Frame
- Steel double cradle
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear Suspension
- Twin shock
- Front Brake
- Single disc
- Rear Brake
- Drum
- Front Tyre
- —
- Rear Tyre
- —
- Transmission
- 5-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 155 km/h (96 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 177 kg (390 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 192 kg (423 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 800 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1370 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 14.0 L
History & Story
When Kawasaki unveiled the 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 in 1974, it signaled the company's commitment to the standard motorcycle segment. Built in Japan, this standard motorcycle embodied the spirit of 1970s motorcycling.
The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 is motivated by a 398cc DOHC twin twin-cylinder unit delivering 36hp at 8500 rpm. Breathing through 2x Mikuni carburetors and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 5-speed transmission with chain final drive.
Built around a steel double cradle frame, the 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 suspends its 177 kg (390 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on single disc at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1370 mm wheelbase providing stability.
Performance-wise, the 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 achieves a claimed top speed of 155 km/h (96 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 is motivated by a 398cc DOHC twin twin-cylinder unit delivering 36hp at 8500 rpm. Breathing through 2x Mikuni carburetors and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 5-speed transmission with chain final drive.
Built around a steel double cradle frame, the 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 suspends its 177 kg (390 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on single disc at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1370 mm wheelbase providing stability.
Performance-wise, the 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 achieves a claimed top speed of 155 km/h (96 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Known Issues
- Cam chain issues on high-mileage engines
- Oil leaks from gaskets and seals
- Electrical system gremlins
Fun Facts
- The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 was produced in Kawasaki's Japan facilities
- The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Good
- Collector Rating
- 4/10
Resources & Parts
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