Photo: 1969_Kawasaki_500_H1_MachIII.jpg: Mike Schinkel derivative work: Ligabo (talk) · CC BY 2.0
Kawasaki H1 500 Mach III
79/100 Overall
60 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki H1 500 Mach III vs Suzuki GT750
Kawasaki H1 500 Mach III scores 79/100 overall against Suzuki GT750 on 80/100. On the road: 60–70. As classics: 98–90. Overall result: Suzuki GT750.
Photo: ronsaunders47 · CC BY-SA 2.0
Suzuki GT750
80/100 Overall
70 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki H1 | Suzuki GT750 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki H1 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 5 | 6 | Suzuki GT750 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 6 | Suzuki GT750 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 8 | Suzuki GT750 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki GT750 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 8 | Suzuki GT750 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki H1 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki H1 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki H1 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Kawasaki H1 if…
you want explosive two-stroke acceleration, outrageous period character and one of Kawasaki's most famous motorcycles.
Choose the Suzuki GT750 if…
you want smooth two-stroke touring, unusual liquid-cooled engineering and unmistakable triple-cylinder character.
Background
History
Kawasaki H1
The Kawasaki H1 500 Mach III was produced from 1969–1976 and used a 498cc air-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, collector appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki GT750
The Suzuki GT750 was produced from 1971–1977 and used a 738cc liquid-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Kawasaki H1
- Its production span in this library runs from 1969 to 1976.
- The recorded engine description is: 498cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, collector appeal, character.
Suzuki GT750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1971 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 738cc liquid-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, historic importance, collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Kawasaki H1
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki H1 500 Mach III. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki GT750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GT750. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Kawasaki H1
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Suzuki GT750
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Kawasaki H1
Rivals to the Suzuki GT750
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GT750 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Kawasaki H1 500 Mach III wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Suzuki GT750 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.