Page 35 - RidingOnSummer

out the factory gate. It seemed sensible to make more models
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version was released with almost the same power until the big
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following years produced 400cc and 250cc versions of this iconic
motor. The KH250 was particularly popular in Great Britain as CAPACITY 400 CC
learners were permitted to ride them.
ENGINE AIR COOLED, PISTON PORTED,
The KH400 was a departure from the manic models of previous TWO-STROKE TRIPLE
years. It was relatively docile with 38bhp at the crank, was more
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and the US of A, which is where my pride and joy was imported
from, originally residing in the State of Wisconsin. On purchasing COMPRESSION 6.5 : 1
the 1975 KH400 S3, the normal deactivating procedures must
be performed to conform to local ADR’s. The red rear indicator TORQUE (CLAIMED) 28.2 FT.LB @ 6,500
lens must be changed for yellow, the headlight aimed more to RPM
the left and that annoying beeper hard wired to the indicators CARBURATION 3 X MIKUNI VM26CS
disconnected, removed and chucked in the bin. USA models are
distinctive from Aussie versions by having a non-existent rear WHEELBASE 1364 MM
guard and no strap over the seat.
WEIGHT 162 KG
There is something about the sound of a Triple in full song. The
modern Yamaha MT09 also has this melodic wail as the revs rise. LENGTH 2024 MM
Triples have soul! The electronic ignition ensures that the machine
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choke lever and soon settles down to a regular idle. Let it warm
up a little and then get ready for an aural feast. A ride does not TYRES 3.25 X 18 (F) 3.50 X 18 (R)
last all that long though as at almost 100 miles (160ks), you are
reaching for reserve on the fuel tap. Petrol cooled? Better start
looking for a service station pretty quickly. This is a small price
to pay for the privilege of riding this iconic machine. Owning a
KH400 will not disappoint as the unmistakable triple lineage is
there, as is the sound, the look and the experience. The bike is
still spirited enough to thrill but will not cause too many heart
stopping moments.
The KH400 will probably be one of the last machines in the
garage to depart as ‘older’ age approaches. It is in original
condition, which makes it very rare. Prices of all Kawasaki Triples
have risen substantially and will continue to do so in the future, as
classic bikes and cars are better investments than bank interest.
Neville Gray
#3394, LM#13 OAM

RIDING ON 35