1969 Kawasaki 500 H1 Mach III
Country: Japan
Engine: Air-cooled, 3-cylinder two-stroke
Ignition: Capacitor discharge ignition (CDI)
Power Rating: 60bhp @7,500rpm
Bore x Stroke: 60 x 59mm
Displacement: 499cc
Valves: None
Fuel System: Three 28mm Mikuni carburetors
Transmission: 5-speed
Suspension: Front telescopic forks, rear twin shocks
Brakes: Front and rear drum
Weight: 383lbs.
Top Speed: 120mph
When Kawasaki introduced the 500 H1 triple in 1969, it surprised everyone with its performance and price. For burn-outs, wheelies and quarter-mile times equal to or better than many 750cc machines, the H1 was “a lot of bang for the buck.” At $995 buyers overlooked the high gas consumption, smokey exhaust and dubious handling. The two-stroke triple had arrived!