1972 Kawasaki 500 H 1 Mach III Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
At the heart of the 1972 Kawasaki 500 H 1 Mach III classic motorcycle, Kawasaki pairs a 499 cc (30.5 cu in) air-cooled in-line three, two-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 58 HP (42.3 kW) at 7,750 rpm while maximum torque reaches 56 Nm (41.3 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 116.2 HP per liter and a 750 rpm working window between peak torque (7,000 rpm) and peak power (7,750 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the 500 H 1 Mach III measures 210 kg (463 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.28 HP/kg (3.62 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,400 mm (55.1 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 186 km/h (116 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 1970 to 1974, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
116.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.28 HP/kg (3.62 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,000–7,750 rpm
Engine
Displacement499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)
Engine TypeIn-line three, two-stroke
Power58.0 HP (42.3 kW)) @ 7750 RPM
Torque56.0 Nm (5.7 kgf-m or 41.3 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
