Kawasaki Factory Racer

Key facts

Year

1975
Country

Japan
Capacity

498cc
Cylinders

3
Maximum speed

145mph/233.35kph
Price new

Not marketed
Manufacturer

Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd

Although unusual at the time for its water-cooled, three-cylinder, two-stroke engine, this Kawasaki factory racer won the Senior TT in the Isle of Man on its first appearance there. It was outstanding for its fast acceleration. The rider was Yorkshireman Mick Grant whose average speed was 100.27mph/161.37kph and fastest lap, 102.93mph/165.65kph.

Racing three-cylinder engines have been used by other manufacturers but have never been the most popular of configurations.