At the heart of the 1979 Kawasaki KZ 400 LTD custom - cruiser motorcycle, Kawasaki features a 398 cc (24.3 cu in) air-cooled twin, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 36 HP (26.3 kW) at 8,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 31.2 Nm (23 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 90.5 HP per liter and a 1,500 rpm working window between peak torque (7,000 rpm) and peak power (8,500 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the KZ 400 LTD measures 170 kg (375 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.21 HP/kg (4.72 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,371 mm (54 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 12-liter (3.2 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 151 km/h (94 mph).
Specific Output
90.5 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.21 HP/kg (4.72 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,000–8,500 rpm
Engine
Displacement398.0 ccm (24.29 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, four-stroke
Power36.0 HP (26.3 kW)) @ 8500 RPM
Torque31.2 Nm (3.2 kgf-m or 23.0 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM
Compression9.5:1
Bore x Stroke64.0 x 62.0 mm (2.5 x 2.4 inches)
Valves/Cylinder2
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin VB32SS x2
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
LubricationWet sump
CoolingAir
Max RPM9000
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet multi disk
Performance
Top Speed151.3 km/h (94.0 mph)
Exhaust2 in to 2
Chassis
Rake27.0°
Trail104 mm (4.1 inches)
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Rear SuspensionSwingarm
Wheelbase1371 mm (54.0 inches)
Ground Clearance125 mm (4.9 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre3.25-18
Rear Tyre3.50-18
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø226 mm (8.9 inches)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear Brake Ø180 mm (7.1 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight170.0 kg (374.8 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2118 HP/kg
Overall Length2080 mm (81.9 inches)
Fuel Capacity12.00 litres (3.17 US gallons)
Reserve Fuel1.89 litres (0.50 US gallons)
Oil Capacity2.90 litres (3.06 US quarts)
Other
StarterElectric & kick
Notes
not sure why I have to submit this bike again but here it is.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
