Description
This motorcycle is Lot 277 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on October 10th – 11th, please see the Bonhams Motorcycles Website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 201 - 407 are to be sold from 11AM local time on Sunday 11th October 2026.
Public Viewing:
Available 10th & 11th October 2026 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Staffordshire County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 277
1974 Kawasaki KH400
Registration no. BNE 27N
Frame no. S3F-10604
Engine no. S3E 10595
Capitalising on the success of the outrageous Mach III 500, Kawasaki followed up with a range of basically similar two-stroke triples, introducing the 750 H2, 250 S1 and 350 S2 in 1971. The latter two machines were virtually identical, the S2 differing from its smaller sibling only in its larger bore and carburettors. Built for three years only, the S2 was superseded by the 400cc S3, which arrived in 1973 boasting a longer wheelbase, disc front brake, rubber-mounted engine and surprisingly a few less horsepower than its 350cc predecessor. Although slightly down on performance, the S3 could nudge 110mph and raced through the quarter-mile in a little over 14 seconds, figures that put it at the head of its class. Model designations changed to 'KH' in 1976, the new KH400 boasting a disc front brake and CDI ignition. Outrageous and uncompromising in their day, these charismatic Kawasaki triples have become highly collectible in recent years.
According to our vendor, this KH400 had a rebore, new pistons/ rings and various other parts fitted on 12th July 1977 at 19, 395 miles. An MoT certificate dated 1980 records the mileage as 23, 010 miles, which means the current reading of 7, 523 cannot represent the distance covered from new. The most likely explanation for this apparent discrepancy is that the speedometer was changed at some point.
The private vendor acquired this machine in 2024, since when it has been used sparingly and otherwise kept dry stored. We are advised that a new battery has been fitted and the old fuel drained and replaced with fresh fuel. The machine was said to last run on 6th September 2026.
Prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's history, originality, authenticity, mechanical condition, mileage, age and completeness (or otherwise) prior to bidding. Sold strictly as viewed, the machine is offered with a V5C document and other paperwork.
£4, 500 - 6, 500
All lots are sold ‘as is/ where is’ and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness, mileage, engine capacity and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
