Yamaha XJ900
78/100 Overall
78 On the road78 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha XJ900 vs Kawasaki GPz750
Yamaha XJ900 scores 78/100 overall against Kawasaki GPz750 on 84/100. On the road: 78–78. As classics: 78–90. Overall result: Kawasaki GPz750.
Photo: John de Guerre · CC BY-SA 3.0
Kawasaki GPz750
84/100 Overall
78 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha XJ900 | Kawasaki GPz750 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 8 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 8 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha XJ900 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha XJ900 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 7 | 9 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
Choose the Yamaha XJ900 if…
you want strong 1980s sports-touring ability, shaft drive and a tough, usable big Yamaha.
Choose the Kawasaki GPz750 if…
you want muscular early-1980s Kawasaki performance, distinctive GPz styling and a direct link to the developing superbike era.
Background
History
Yamaha XJ900
The Yamaha XJ900 was produced from 1983–1989 and used a air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for comfort, styling, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Kawasaki GPz750
The Kawasaki GPz750 was produced from 1982–1985 and used a 738cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, performance, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha XJ900
- Its production span in this library runs from 1983 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are comfort, styling, reliability.
Kawasaki GPz750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1982 to 1985.
- The recorded engine description is: 738cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, performance, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha XJ900
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha XJ900. Its library score for comfort is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Kawasaki GPz750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki GPz750. Its library score for styling is 9/10. 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
Yamaha XJ900
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- 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.
Kawasaki GPz750
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- 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 Yamaha XJ900
Rivals to the Kawasaki GPz750
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Kawasaki GPz750 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki GPz750 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.