The successor to the iconic H1, the KH500 maintained the madness of a 500cc 2-stroke engine but it got a name change to KH to better match the KZ line-up of four-strokes. The 750cc was killed off for 1976, leaving the KH250, KH400, and KH500.
There were also slight styling modifications to bring it closer to the four-stroke flagship Z1, such as color options of Deep Burgundy or Copper, new grips, locking gas tank cap, and a brighter headlight.
The two-stroke triple was good for a claimed 50 horsepower, enough for a top speed of 113 miles per hour.
Manufactured June 1975, this example is VIN: H1F48064. The seller purchased the bike from Mecum in 2022 and states, “Purchased with the desire to build a Kawasaki two-stroke line. Given the high costs of other models we opted to expand some others and drop this genre of bikes. Went straight to storage with resto plans. Too many projects and need to cut back on storage costs to house 50+ bikes.”
The odometer shows 10,393 miles.
Maintenance:
Per the seller, “Light test shows turn signals to work but not flash. Tail light but no front brake light. Did not investigate reason for either. Running on jump battery only. Headlamp bucket stays appear slightly bent and off center. Not terribly hard to fix but none attempted here. Refit a missing bolt in the #2 exhaust upon start up.”
Modifications:
“Someone fit pods to it. Have original air cleaner shown.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Cheng-Shin Hi-Max tires with date codes of 3605 and 5205.
The sale includes one key and original air box.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Bike shows its age and miles. Blemishes on the rear cowel, over polishing of the front fender, small seat tear on the left side. Tank is clean inside but would benefit from a polish and maybe clearcoat.”
Currently located in Tempe, Arizona this Kawasaki is offered on a clean Arizona title. Have any KH500 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
