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1970s Kawasaki H1 Mach III 500 cc Valuation Report

Date: August 2025

Historical Overview

The H1 Mach III (1969–1975) was Kawasaki’s dramatic 500 cc two-stroke inline-triple, delivering blistering performance but notorious for challenging handling. It’s now a holding icon of the 1970s era, and UK collectors prize early subspecies, matching numbers, and condition.

UK Valuation Summary (by condition)

Condition	Estimated Value (GBP)	Example External Source
Project / Restoration Non-running or heavily incomplete.	£3,500 – £5,000	Bonhams – unrestored H1 Mach III (not sold) estimated £2,800.
Roadworthy / Presentable Running, usable, with light wear; presentable rider.	£8,000 – £11,000	Iconic Auctioneers – 1970 H1 “Original & Highly Original” sold £8,050 (July 2025).
Restored / Excellent High-quality restoration, matching numbers, excellent cosmetics & docs.	£11,500 – £14,000	H&H Classics – 1969 H1 Mach III sold £10,350 (2018); Iconic – 1970 restored example estimate £8–10k (July 2025).

Notes: Presentable value comes from recent verified UK sale. Excellent category rides near the top when proven restoration and documentation align. No pure “project” hammer prices available in past 18 months, estimates based on market listings and Bonhams estimate.

Value Influencing Factors

• Matching numbers & originality: Frame/engine sequences, correct tanks, trims, paint, are critical.
• Mechanical condition: Rebuilt top-end (cylinder/barrel), carb health, engine seals, electrical reliability.
• Documentation: V5C, MOT history, restoration receipts, and specialist provenance reviews.
• Variant & year: Sculpted-tank early models (pre-1971) often outperform later versions.
• Handling upgrades: Period-correct steering dampers, upgraded front discs can enhance appeal.

Conclusion

In the UK market circa 2025: project-condition H1s range between £3.5k–£5k; tidy, roadworthy machines fetch £8k–£11k; high-end examples climb to £11.5k–£14k if restored to an exceptional level. Market remains steady, with smart buyers paying for provenance and authenticity.

Sources (non-link references):
Bonhams – unrestored 1970 H1 estimate ~£2,800;
Iconic Auctioneers – 1970 H1 sold £8,050 (July 2025);
H&H Classics – 1969 H1 Mach III sold £10,350 (March 2018);
Iconic Auctioneers – restored 1970 H1 estimate £8–10k (July 2025).

All Valuations