Post Listing Update: This H1R was pulled off of eBay because there “was an error in the listing.”
Based on the H1, Kawasaki created the H1R for competition in the big dog 500cc class of Grand Prix racing. In 1970, Kawi placed second in the constructors championship, thanks mostly to Ginger Molloy, who came in second over the season. This example is claimed to be a true factory H1R racer that was owned by Wes Cooley Sr (who ran a factory supplied racer in 1970 and 1971). It’s been done up to be a tribute to the Duhamel family of Yvon and Miggy.
Per the seller, this bike went from Wes Cooley Sr to a private owner in England who then sold it to Dave Crussell. Dave restored the bike and then sold it to the current owner, who believes that the bike is ready to go and spent some time on a track. All I can say is that it’s beautiful and I hope the next owner rides it in anger every once in a while.
This example (VIN: KAE 900400) features the 500cc 2-stroke 3 cylinder of the factory racer, which was good for 80 horsepower (according to the seller). It’s a tribute to Yvon’s win at the Talladega 200 in 1971 on a Team Hansen bike – Kawi’s first win in the US on a big bike. The frame was upgraded to a ’71 example, which includes an aluminum ‘quick fill’ gas tank. The cylinders are also ’71 spec – the seller says this is basically a “H1R in the same spec as the factory bikes at the end of 71.” The bike will be on display on Saturday, May 20th in an exhibit called “Riding Into History” near Daytona Beach. The exhibit is honoring the Duhamel’s as they are Grand Marshals of the race this year. Between 1964 and 2004, the father-son duo race in 26 Daytona 200s!
Find this H1R for sale in Tallahassee, Florida with bidding up to $28,100 and the reserve not yet met