Description
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
By the mid-1960s, the US had become the world’s largest motorcycle market. American riders were demanding bikes with more horsepower and higher maximum speeds. Kawasaki already had the largest-displacement Japanese machine with their 650 cc four-stroke W series, but it did not fit the niche they were aiming for. Honda had introduced its CB450 in 1965, and four years later the Suzuki T500 Titan/Cobra appeared. Also in development was the Yamaha XS650. So Kawasaki began development on the top secret N100 Plan in 1967.
The goal was to produce a motorcycle with 500 cc displacement that was able to develop 60 hp and have 13-second quarter-mile times, then considered over the achievable limit for a road bike. When announced in 1969, the H1 was factory quoted in the UK motorcycling press as “the fastest and best accelerating road machine ever produced, being capable of 124 mph and 12.4 sec. for the standing start quarter mile“.
In practice, this required a piston-ported two-stroke engine in a steel-tube cradle frame — a combo that weighed in at 414lbs wet. The air-cooled triple boasted a 499cc displacement and put out 60hp and 42lbs torque. For the suspension setup, Kawi incorporated an inner spring telescopic front fork with a set of three-position preload-adjustable shocks at the rear. Front brakes comprised a 296mm disc while the rear was handled by a 180mm drum. Motorcyclist magazine said the Mach’s power-to-weight ratio was the “best ever produced in a motorcycle meant to sell to anyone who has the money to purchase it.”
This example is VIN: H1F38726. The seller acquired the bike six years ago from a dealership in New York.
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 800 miles. The odometer shows 4,890 miles.
Maintenance:
During his ownership, the seller reports that he has performed “regular routine adjustments.” Iconic has not inspected this H1.
Modifications:
This H1 appears to be stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Avon Road Rider tires that have aged out.
The sale includes three keys, the original owner’s manual, the factory tool kit, and a selection of spare gaskets and other restoration parts.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Kawasaki is offered on a clean California title with registration current through December 2024.
Have any H1 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
