Photo: PSParrot from England · CC BY 2.0
Kawasaki KH400
81/100 Overall
67 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki KH400 vs Suzuki GT380
Kawasaki KH400 scores 81/100 overall against Suzuki GT380 on 79/100. On the road: 67–68. As classics: 95–90. Overall result: Kawasaki KH400.
Suzuki GT380
79/100 Overall
68 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki KH400 | Suzuki GT380 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki KH400 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 6 | Kawasaki KH400 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki GT380 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki GT380 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki GT380 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki KH400 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki KH400 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Kawasaki KH400 if…
you want charismatic Kawasaki triple-cylinder performance in a more manageable package than the larger Mach models.
Choose the Suzuki GT380 if…
you want smooth three-cylinder two-stroke character, comfortable road manners and unmistakable 1970s Suzuki styling.
Background
History
Kawasaki KH400
The Kawasaki KH400 was produced from 1976–1978 and used a 400cc air-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for collector appeal, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki GT380
The Suzuki GT380 was produced from 1972–1978 and used a 371cc air-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Kawasaki KH400
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1978.
- The recorded engine description is: 400cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are collector appeal, character, styling.
Suzuki GT380
- Its production span in this library runs from 1972 to 1978.
- The recorded engine description is: 371cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Kawasaki KH400
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KH400. Its library score for collector appeal is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki GT380
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GT380. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Kawasaki KH400
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Suzuki GT380
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Kawasaki KH400
Rivals to the Suzuki GT380
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GT380 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Kawasaki KH400 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki KH400 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.