KM 100

1981 Kawasaki KM 100 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around Kawasaki's classic motorcycle platform, the 1981 Kawasaki KM 100 utilizes a 100 cc (6.1 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, two-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 8.8 HP (6.4 kW) at 6,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 88 HP per liter, the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the KM 100 measures 89 kg (196 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.1 HP/kg (10.11 kg per horsepower). The 6-liter (1.6 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 86 km/h (53 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 4 indexed model years from 1978 to 1981, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.