Report From Japan
REPORT FROM JAPAN
JACK YAMAGUCHI
KAWASAKI EDINBURGH 250
Motorcycle trials are getting more popular among enthusiasts in Japan. In fact, it is now recognized as the third motorcycle sport following road racing and motocross. All four of the Japanese makers are now aggressively developing their respective trials machines.
As already reported, Kawasaki is keen to be first in this sport. Mr. Takashi Yamamoto, who was one of the Kawasaki factory teamsters, has recently built a noteworthy trials machine intended for use in international events in the near future.
The machine is a take-off from the Kawasaki 250 TR F-ll, but has been made much lighter than the base model. The engine has been modified with particular emphasis laid on speeds at super-low range. All unnecessary stays have been removed from the frame work. Smaller-size hubs have also been tried. And, the machine features offset type front forks which display very sharp handling.
Handlebars are made of chrome molybdenum and are wide enough to form an almost straight line and the standard tires of the TR F11 are retained. The standard type muffler has been considerably modified, however. The exhaust pipe section is nearly threefold as long as the standard one for smoother power delivery. The upswept muffler runs beneath the fuel tank. The long tailpipe reaches the rear part of the rear cushion unit, and the sub-muffler attached to its end has improved silencing efficiency.
Major engine modifications include a lower compression ratio, a reshaped combustion chamber, ports which now favor low speeds, and a longer intake manifold to increase low rpm torque.
KAWASAKI 350SS S2T
The 350 SS is a scaled-down version of the 500SS Mach III. It has won high popularity among mediumweight bike fans for its brisk, dependable cruising performance since it was marketed in April 1971.
The latest version, named the 350SS S2T features noteworthy refinements in styling and safety measures. A new front disc brake for greater safety has been added.
Some modifications have also been introduced to the tail section-related design. And, position and passing lamps have been newly adopted to ensure better visibility.
KAWASAKI 750 RS Z2
In addition to the Edinburgh prototype, Kawasaki has fully modified six models ranging from 90 to 650cc. And, at the same time they marketed one new model under the title of the 750 RS (Roadster) Z2. It is a scaled down version of the 900cc Z1 which is exclusively intended for export.
The 750 is mounted with the dohc four-cylinder engine. Bore and stroke is 64 x 58mm for 746cc. All other technical data is the same as those of its bigger brother. Both models look quite identical to each other except for an emblem attached to the side cover.
Maximum power is 69 bhp at 9000 rpm. It is claimed to be the highest in its class.
KAWASAKI 500SS H1
Kawasakis 500 SS, nicknamed the Mach III, is the first two-cycle threecylinder sports model ever developed in this country. Its marked individuality and exciting performance have convincingly made it the one to beat.
Some people, however, have been somewhat against this model’s extremely dynamic performance. Since Kawasaki has never failed to give due consideration to all comments on this model, they have redesigned it slightly with more handling ease in mind.
Maximum output is claimed to be 59 bhp at 8000 rpm, and proves somewhat lower than its predecessor’s 60 bhp at 7500 rpm. Greater emphasis on speeds Continued from page 103
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'from low to medium has resulted in such a drop in power.
Overall length and width have been slightly reduced, but wheelbase and ground clearance have been increased a little. Dry weight has been also increased.
