Kawasaki Z1300
84/100 Overall
77 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki Z1300 vs Yamaha FJ1200
Kawasaki Z1300 scores 84/100 overall against Yamaha FJ1200 on 80/100. On the road: 77–82. As classics: 90–78. Overall result: Kawasaki Z1300.
Photo: Gregmarch at English Wikipedia · Public domain
Yamaha FJ1200
80/100 Overall
82 On the road78 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki Z1300 | Yamaha FJ1200 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 7 | Yamaha FJ1200 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 8 | Yamaha FJ1200 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki Z1300 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki Z1300 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 8 | Kawasaki Z1300 |
Choose the Kawasaki Z1300 if…
you want colossal six-cylinder presence, effortless performance and one of Japan's most ambitious heavyweight classics.
Choose the Yamaha FJ1200 if…
you want effortless big-bore performance, long-distance comfort and one of the defining 1980s sports tourers.
Background
History
Kawasaki Z1300
The Kawasaki Z1300 was produced from 1979–1989 and used a 1286cc liquid-cooled inline six. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, performance, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Yamaha FJ1200
The Yamaha FJ1200 was produced from 1986–1989 and used a 1188cc air-cooled inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for performance, comfort, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Kawasaki Z1300
- Its production span in this library runs from 1979 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 1286cc liquid-cooled inline six.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, performance, historic importance.
Yamaha FJ1200
- Its production span in this library runs from 1986 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 1188cc air-cooled inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are performance, comfort, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Kawasaki Z1300
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki Z1300. 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.
Yamaha FJ1200
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha FJ1200. Its library score for performance 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
Kawasaki Z1300
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- 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.
Yamaha FJ1200
- 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 Kawasaki Z1300
Rivals to the Yamaha FJ1200
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha FJ1200 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Kawasaki Z1300 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki Z1300 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.