Built around Kawasaki's naked motorcycle platform, the 1978 Kawasaki KZ 750 utilizes a 750 cc (45.8 cu in) air-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 55 HP (40.1 kW) at 7,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 60.5 Nm (44.6 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 73.3 HP per liter and a 4,000 rpm working window between peak torque (3,000 rpm) and peak power (7,000 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 750 measures 220 kg (485 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.25 HP/kg (4 kg per horsepower). The 14-liter (3.7 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 280 km (174 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 165 km/h (103 mph).
Specific Output
73.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.25 HP/kg (4 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,000–7,000 rpm
Theoretical Range
~280 km (174 mi)
Engine
Displacement750.0 ccm (45.77 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, four-stroke
Power55.0 HP (40.1 kW)) @ 7000 RPM
Torque60.5 Nm (6.2 kgf-m or 44.6 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM
Compression8.5:1
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Mikuni
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
LubricationWet sump
CoolingAir
Max RPM7500
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet plates
Performance
Top Speed165.0 km/h (102.5 mph)
0-100 km/h9.00 seconds
Fuel Consumption5.00 litres/100 km (20.0 km/l or 47.04 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases116.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
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.
