Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 24th March from 1pm
Auction: Wed 25th March from 9am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
1973 Kawaski H1D 500
Original paint unrestored Mach 3
Estimate
£3, 500 - £4, 500
Registration No: FWY 131L
Frame No: H1F-06340
MOT: Exempt
The legendary H1 'Mach 3' 500cc Triple
Genuine KH500H1 DGM13127S exhaust
UK registered on a current V5C
Kawasaki Heavy Industries is one of the largest corporations in Japan, producing a wide range of products from rolling stock to ships. After taking over the ailing Meguro Motorcycle Company, they began manufacturing motorcycles under the Kawasaki name in the early sixties initially continuing the development of the K1, a BSA A10 copy but soon moving on to build a reputation for high performance 2 stroke twins and triples. The H1 500cc triple was launched in 1969 and immediately earned a fearsome reputation for its wild power delivery and equally wild handling. Nicknamed the 'Widowmaker', it brought a new level of engine performance that at times outstripped the quality of brakes, suspension and tyre technology available in the late 1960s. By the 1970s, the bike had been somewhat tamed with a disc front brake, improved rear shocks and an optional hydraulic steering damper, but the bike still gave that level of excitement that only a big capacity two stroke can offer.
This 1973 H1-D model was bought in Italy and imported into the UK by the vendor a few years ago and has since been registered with DVLA on plate number FWY131L. It appears to be in unrestored condition, still wearing its original paint and its genuine 'KH500H1 DGM13127S' stamped chrome exhaust system. A bike that was designed to be ridden hard, few will have survived in such authentic condition. The seat and chrome are in good order, the rear shocks are original and it is fitted with the optional Kawasaki adjustable steering damper. The bike was recommissioned and used sparingly last summer, and it will be supplied with a current V5C.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
