The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 is a Japanese motorcycle that was manufactured by Kawasaki Heavy Industries from 1976 to 1983. It is a four-stroke, air-cooled, inline-four engine with a displacement of 652 cc. The KZ650 was one of the most popular motorcycles of its era, and it is still considered a classic today.
The KZ650 was known for its performance, reliability, and affordability. It was also one of the first motorcycles to feature a six-speed transmission. The KZ650 was used in a variety of applications, including street riding, touring, and racing.
The KZ650 was succeeded by the KZ750 in 1984. The KZ750 was a larger and more powerful motorcycle, but it was not as popular as the KZ650. The KZ650 remains a popular choice for classic motorcycle enthusiasts today.
1979 Kawasaki KZ650
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 is a classic motorcycle that is still popular today. It is known for its performance, reliability, and affordability. Here are 9 key aspects of the KZ650:
- Engine: 652 cc, air-cooled, inline-four
- Power: 65 horsepower at 8,500 rpm
- Torque: 45 ft-lbs at 7,000 rpm
- Transmission: Six-speed
- Brakes: Front disc, rear drum
- Suspension: Front telescopic forks, rear swingarm
- Weight: 450 lbs
- Top speed: 120 mph
- Price: $2,299 (1979)
These key aspects make the KZ650 a great choice for riders who are looking for a classic motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain. The KZ650 is also a relatively affordable motorcycle, making it a great value for the money.
Engine
The engine is the heart of any motorcycle, and the Kawasaki KZ650’s engine is no exception. The KZ650’s engine is a 652 cc, air-cooled, inline-four engine. This type of engine is known for its performance, reliability, and affordability.
The KZ650’s engine is one of the things that makes it such a popular motorcycle. The engine produces 65 horsepower and 45 ft-lbs of torque, which is enough power to get the KZ650 up to speeds of 120 mph. The engine is also very reliable, and it can easily last for many years with proper maintenance.
The KZ650’s engine is also very affordable to maintain. The parts are readily available, and the labor costs are relatively low. This makes the KZ650 a great choice for riders who are looking for a classic motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain.
Power
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 is powered by a 652 cc, air-cooled, inline-four engine that produces 65 horsepower at 8,500 rpm. This gives the KZ650 a top speed of 120 mph and a 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds.
- Performance: The KZ650’s engine is powerful enough to provide excellent performance, whether you’re riding on the street or on the track.
- Reliability: The KZ650’s engine is also very reliable, and it can easily last for many years with proper maintenance.
- Affordability: The KZ650’s engine is also very affordable to maintain. The parts are readily available, and the labor costs are relatively low.
- Versatility: The KZ650’s engine is versatile enough to be used in a variety of applications, including street riding, touring, and racing.
Overall, the KZ650’s engine is a major contributor to the motorcycle’s popularity. It is powerful, reliable, affordable, and versatile, making it a great choice for riders of all levels.
Torque
Torque is a measure of an engine’s rotational force, and it is an important factor in determining a motorcycle’s performance. The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 produces 45 ft-lbs of torque at 7,000 rpm. This gives the KZ650 strong acceleration and good low-end power.
- Acceleration: The KZ650’s torquey engine gives it good acceleration, making it a fun bike to ride in the city or on the highway.
- Low-end power: The KZ650’s torquey engine also gives it good low-end power, making it a good choice for riders who like to ride in the mountains or on dirt roads.
- Versatility: The KZ650’s torquey engine makes it a versatile motorcycle that can be used for a variety of purposes, including commuting, touring, and sport riding.
- Reliability: The KZ650’s torquey engine is also very reliable, and it can easily last for many years with proper maintenance.
Overall, the KZ650’s torquey engine is a major contributor to the motorcycle’s popularity. It gives the KZ650 good acceleration, low-end power, and versatility, making it a great choice for riders of all levels.
Transmission
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 was one of the first motorcycles to feature a six-speed transmission. This was a significant improvement over the five-speed transmissions that were common at the time, and it gave the KZ650 a number of advantages.
- Better fuel economy: The sixth gear allowed the KZ650 to cruise at lower RPMs on the highway, which improved fuel economy.
- Smoother shifting: The six-speed transmission also made shifting smoother and easier, especially at higher speeds.
- More versatile: The sixth gear gave the KZ650 more versatility, making it a better choice for both commuting and touring.
- Improved performance: The six-speed transmission also improved the KZ650’s performance, giving it better acceleration and top speed.
Overall, the six-speed transmission was a major improvement for the 1979 Kawasaki KZ650. It made the motorcycle more fuel-efficient, smoother, more versatile, and faster.
Brakes
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 features a front disc brake and a rear drum brake. This combination of brakes was common on motorcycles of this era, and it provides good stopping power and control.
The front disc brake is more effective than the rear drum brake, as it provides more stopping power and better feel. The rear drum brake is less effective, but it is more durable and requires less maintenance.
The combination of a front disc brake and a rear drum brake provides a good balance of stopping power, control, and durability. This makes the KZ650 a safe and enjoyable motorcycle to ride.
Suspension
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 features a front telescopic fork and a rear swingarm suspension system. This combination of suspension components provides a good balance of comfort and handling.
The front telescopic forks are adjustable for preload and damping. This allows the rider to tune the suspension to their own preferences and riding style. The rear swingarm is also adjustable for preload. This allows the rider to adjust the suspension to accommodate different loads, such as a passenger or luggage.
The front telescopic forks and rear swingarm suspension system on the KZ650 provide a comfortable and controlled ride. This makes the KZ650 a good choice for both commuting and touring.
Weight
Weight is a significant factor that influences the handling, performance, and fuel efficiency of a motorcycle. The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 weighs 450 lbs, which is relatively light for a motorcycle of its size and era. This weight gives the KZ650 a number of advantages.
- Improved handling: A lighter motorcycle is easier to maneuver and handle, especially at low speeds and in tight spaces.
- Enhanced performance: A lighter motorcycle accelerates faster and has a higher top speed than a heavier motorcycle.
- Increased fuel efficiency: A lighter motorcycle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed, which improves fuel economy.
Overall, the weight of the 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 is a major contributor to its popularity. The KZ650’s light weight makes it a fun and easy motorcycle to ride, and it also contributes to the motorcycle’s performance and fuel efficiency.
Top speed
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 has a top speed of 120 mph. This was an impressive top speed for a motorcycle of its era, and it is still considered to be a good top speed for a motorcycle today. The KZ650’s top speed is due to a combination of factors, including its powerful engine, lightweight, and aerodynamic design.
The KZ650’s engine produces 65 horsepower and 45 ft-lbs of torque. This gives the KZ650 plenty of power to accelerate quickly and reach its top speed. The KZ650’s lightweight also contributes to its top speed. At 450 lbs, the KZ650 is relatively light for a motorcycle of its size. This makes it easier for the KZ650 to accelerate and reach its top speed.
The KZ650’s aerodynamic design also contributes to its top speed. The KZ650 has a sleek, streamlined design that reduces drag. This allows the KZ650 to reach its top speed more easily and efficiently.
The KZ650’s top speed of 120 mph makes it a fun and exciting motorcycle to ride. It is also a practical motorcycle that can be used for commuting or touring.
Price
The price of the 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 was $2,299. This was a relatively affordable price for a motorcycle of its size and performance. The KZ650 was one of the most popular motorcycles of its era, and its price was a major factor in its popularity.
The price of the KZ650 was also significant because it made the motorcycle accessible to a wider range of riders. At $2,299, the KZ650 was affordable enough for many people to purchase, even if they were not experienced riders. This helped to make motorcycling more popular and accessible to a wider range of people.
The price of the KZ650 also had a significant impact on the motorcycle’s legacy. The KZ650 is still considered to be one of the best motorcycles of its era, and its affordable price has helped to ensure that it remains popular with riders today.
FAQs about the 79 Kawasaki KZ650
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 is a legendary motorcycle that continues to be popular among enthusiasts today. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the KZ650:
Question 1: What is the KZ650’s engine size?
The KZ650 has a 652 cc, air-cooled, inline-four engine.
Question 2: How much horsepower does the KZ650 produce?
The KZ650 produces 65 horsepower at 8,500 rpm.
Question 3: What is the KZ650’s top speed?
The KZ650 has a top speed of 120 mph.
Question 4: How much does the KZ650 weigh?
The KZ650 weighs 450 lbs.
Question 5: What is the KZ650’s fuel economy?
The KZ650’s fuel economy is approximately 45 mpg.
Question 6: How much did the KZ650 cost when it was new?
The KZ650 cost $2,299 when it was first released in 1979.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the 1979 Kawasaki KZ650. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact a local Kawasaki dealer or visit the Kawasaki website.
Transition to the next article section:
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 is a classic motorcycle that is still enjoyed by riders today. Its combination of performance, reliability, and affordability make it a great choice for riders of all levels.
Tips for Riding a 1979 Kawasaki KZ650
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 is a classic motorcycle that is still enjoyed by riders today. It is a powerful and reliable motorcycle, but it can also be challenging to ride, especially for new riders. Here are five tips to help you ride a 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 safely and enjoyably:
Tip 1: Get to know your motorcycle.
Before you ride your KZ650, take some time to get to know its controls and how it handles. Read the owner’s manual and practice riding in a safe, controlled environment.
Tip 2: Wear proper safety gear.
Always wear a helmet, gloves, and other appropriate safety gear when riding your KZ650. This will help protect you in the event of an accident.
Tip 3: Be aware of your surroundings.
When riding your KZ650, always be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards. This includes other vehicles, pedestrians, and road conditions.
Tip 4: Ride defensively.
Always ride defensively and expect the unexpected. This means anticipating the actions of other drivers and being prepared to react to hazards.
Tip 5: Get regular maintenance.
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your KZ650 running safely and smoothly. Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual and have your motorcycle inspected by a qualified mechanic at least once a year.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable riding experience on your 1979 Kawasaki KZ650.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
By following these tips, you can:
- Improve your safety while riding
- Get to know your motorcycle better
- Anticipate and avoid hazards
- Keep your motorcycle in good condition
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 is a classic motorcycle that can be enjoyed by riders of all levels. By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Conclusion
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 is a classic motorcycle that is still popular among enthusiasts today. Its combination of performance, reliability, and affordability make it a great choice for riders of all levels. Whether you are a new rider or an experienced rider, the KZ650 is a motorcycle that you can enjoy for many years to come.
The KZ650 is a testament to the engineering and design prowess of Kawasaki. It is a motorcycle that is both fun to ride and easy to maintain. If you are looking for a classic motorcycle that will provide you with years of enjoyment, the KZ650 is a great option.