1970 Kawasaki H1 Mach III 500

The Apex Collection · Lot F132

1970 Kawasaki H1 Mach III 500

Sold for$16,500
Mecum Kissimmee 2026Crossed the block 2026-01-16Mecum lot page →

Unrestored, 498cc 3-Cylinder, 5-Speed

Highlights

  • Extremely original unrestored example
  • Air-cooled 498cc inline 3-cylinder engine
  • Three Mikuni VM28SC carburetors
  • 60 HP at 7,500 RPM and 42 lb-ft of torque at 7,000 RPM
  • 5-speed gearbox
  • Odometer reads 67,120 miles
  • Gray paint with Black stripe
  • Chrome fenders
  • Chrome handlebars with polished levers and chrome mirror
  • Black upper fork shrouds/headlight ears
  • Black headlight bucket with chrome trim ring
  • Black gauge buckets with chrome trim rings
  • Chrome turn signals
  • Black frame and swingarm
  • Center stand and side stand
  • Kick start
  • Chain final drive
  • Hydraulic front fork suspension with polished fork sliders
  • Rear swingarm suspension with twin shock absorbers
  • Chrome 3-into-3 exhaust with upswept silencers
  • Drum brakes
  • Chrome spoke wheels

Specification

Year
1970
Make
Kawasaki
Model
H1
Exterior
Gray
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Odometer
67,120 miles
Lot
F132

The Story

In 1969, Kawasaki shook the motorcycle world with the introduction of the Mach III 500 H1, a bike that redefined the high-performance category. Designed to be the fastest production motorcycle in its class, the Mach III delivered brutal acceleration and an unmistakable high-pitched exhaust note from its air-cooled, 498cc 2-stroke triple-cylinder engine. Nicknamed the "Widowmaker" due to its explosive power and light chassis, the Mach III dominated the quarter mile and set new benchmarks for top speed. It was one of the most aggressive motorcycles of its time, cementing Kawasaki’s reputation for performance.

With its striking dark gray livery, this 1970 Kawasaki H1 Mach III 500 brings the buyer back to the dawn of high-performance bikes. This example has never been restored and has been beautifully preserved under previous ownership, showing just 67,119 miles on the odometer at the time of writing. The Kawasaki Mach III 500 is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a cultural icon that defined an era of high-performance, no-compromise riding. For those looking for a rare, exhilarating and historically significant machine, this is a chance to own a legend.

Photography · 40 frames