Description
This motorcycle is Lot 21 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online June Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between June 6th through June 16th, with lots closing from midday June 16th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 11th & 12th June 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 21
The Andy Chapman Collection – Part III
1975 Kawasaki 500cc Mach III
Registration no. HHU 275N
Frame no. H1F – 29340 (see text)
Engine no. KAE 99275 (see text)
• Iconic Kawasaki sports roadster
• Acquired for the collection in 2019
• Requires recommissioning
"Only the shotgun acceleration of a Kawasaki can make you feel that good, throttle screwed round as the corner opens up into the next bit of straight as you hit the apex, 'bars shimmying slightly as the front lightens under the power, back end flexing as the engine tries to pull the wheel sideways against all those G's forcing it into the road, oh boy!" – Bike magazine on the H1 (Mach III).
From the Z1 to the ZX10R, Kawasaki has long enjoyed a reputation for building uncompromising - often outrageous - high performance motorcycles. However, the machine that started it all was not a four-stroke like the forgoing but a two-stroke – the awesome, legendary 'Mach III' (H1). Light weight combined with a peaky 60bhp and indifferent handling made the two-stroke triple an exciting machine to ride but one that nevertheless had the legs of just about everything under 750cc when launched in 1968. The H1 triple was regularly revised and updated, gaining a front disc brake, revised steering geometry and rubber engine mounts among other changes before production ceased in 1976, by which time it had become the KH500.
This Mach III was acquired for the collection in 2019 and currently displays a total of 21, 683 miles on the odometer (at the time of cataloguing/ photography). Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning to a greater or lesser extent, or possibly more extensive restoration, before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. It should be noted that the frame number (and possibly the engine number) appears to be a possible re-stamp; accordingly, prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's authenticity and originality before bidding. Offered with a current V5C document.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
