By 1977, all that was left of Kawasaki’s legendary line of triples were the KH250 and the KH400, the latter an evolution of the S3 Mach 2 – Kawi wanted to keep the names consistent with the KZ line. Unfortunately, the evolution was due to tightening emissions requirements, so the newer bike had less power – a disappointing end to a line of bikes that once included the Widowmaker.
That’s not to say the KH400 was a bad bike. Cycle World has the following to say in a period middleweight comparison: “But even with its little package of developments and refinements, the KH retains the kind of character that had it highly-placed in several of the performance-intensive test categories, and ranked down near to the bottom in the categories that emphasized comfort. It’s light (the lightest in the test at 378 pounds with a full tank), inexpensive ($1239 suggested retail) and has the kind of power-to-weight ratio (12 Ibs/hp) that guarantees invigorating acceleration. It is also, in keeping with the larger-displacement Kawatriples that preceded it, a bit harsh in terms of finish, styling and myriad details which other factories handle more delicately. But crude or no, the KH is a genuinely fun motorcycle to be around— as long as you’re tuned into good handling and hot engines.”
This example has about 20,000 miles and is claimed to be in excellent condition. The original paint is complemented by several brand new parts: sprockets, chain, top end, gaskets, battery, and seat cover, as well as rebuilt carbs. Find this S3 for sale in Clifton, New Jersey with an unmet opening bid of $2,500