At the heart of the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 LTD sport motorcycle, Kawasaki features a 1015 cc (61.9 cu in) air-cooled four cylinder boxer, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 85 HP (62 kW) at 8,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 83 Nm (61.2 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 83.7 HP per liter and a 1,000 rpm working window between peak torque (7,000 rpm) and peak power (8,000 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 KZ1000 LTD measures 240 kg (529 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.35 HP/kg (2.82 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 813 mm (32 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,550 mm (61 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 13.6-liter (3.6 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.7 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 289 km (180 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 258 km/h (160 mph).
Specific Output
83.7 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.35 HP/kg (2.82 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,000–8,000 rpm
Theoretical Range
~289 km (180 mi)
Engine
Displacement1015.0 ccm (61.94 cubic inches)
Engine TypeFour cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Engine DetailsFour cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Power85.0 HP (62.0 kW)) @ 8000 RPM
Torque83.0 Nm (8.5 kgf-m or 61.2 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM
Compression8.7:1
Bore x Stroke70.0 x 66.0 mm (2.8 x 2.6 inches)
Valves/Cylinder1
Fuel SystemCarburettor. MIKUNI VM26SS
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionBattery and coil, BTDC 20´@1,450 rpm
LubricationForced Lubrication (wet sump)
CoolingAir
Max RPM8000
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet, multi disc
Performance
Top Speed257.5 km/h (160.0 mph)
Fuel Consumption4.70 litres/100 km (21.3 km/l or 50.05 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases109.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Exhaust4 into 2, Stainless Steel pipes
Chassis
Frame TypeCaster
Rake26.0°
Trail90 mm (3.5 inches)
Front SuspensionTelescopic forks, 36mm
Rear SuspensionDual shocks, swingarm.
Wheelbase1550 mm (61.0 inches)
Ground Clearance155 mm (6.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front BrakesDouble disc
Front Brake Ø295 mm (11.6 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø295 mm (11.6 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight240.0 kg (529.1 pounds)
Power/Weight0.3542 HP/kg
Seat Height813 mm (32.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height1180 mm (46.5 inches)
Overall Length2220 mm (87.4 inches)
Overall Width830 mm (32.7 inches)
Fuel Capacity13.60 litres (3.59 US gallons)
Reserve Fuel1.89 litres (0.50 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric & kick
Color OptionsBlack, Midnight Blue, Burgundy, Grey, Brown
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.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
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.
