1974 Kawasaki H2B 750

This particular example was refurbished and restored by the previous owner in 2021, and has covered only a handful - 20, to be precise - of miles since the restoration works were completed, and remains in pristine condition throughout as a result of its limited use.

Not only was this restoration an aesthetic one, but the engine and drivetrain also received plenty of attention, ensuring that this particular 750 will give plenty of enjoyment for years to come. The level of attention and care given to this classic Japanese ‘triple’ really does have to be seen to be appreciated, though for those looking for a quick rundown of the work that has been carried out, please see below…

In terms of the electrical systems, the entire wiring harness has been worked-through, with all spade/bullet connectors replaced for longevity, and all block connectors replaced with NoS units, whilst each bulb has been replaced with new items, including those that back-light the gauges. Elsewhere in the electrical system, the voltage regulator is a refurbished unit from Rex’s Speed Shop, along with the stator. The ignition coils, plug leads and caps are new items to ensure continued reliability.

With regards to the bodywork, the headlight shell is original, whilst the sealed beam unit and chrome trim ring are new items. The rear light unit and lens, along with the indicators, are European-style units, which match the EU-spec switches on the grips. The frame, swing arm, yolks, stands and brackets have all been powder-coated in gloss black. Both forks have new tubes and seals.

Both wheels have been re-chromed, with the original factory marks retained - an important detail, and one which indicates the level of care that was given to this restoration project. The spokes of the wheels are galvanised reproduction items (as per the original factory construction methods) and have been laced/trued by the previous owner, who stated them to be ‘better than factory’. Alongside the wheels, the front mudguard, kick-start and handlebars have also been re-chromed to tie the bike together aesthetically. The previous owner also fitted new wheel bearing kits both front and rear, retaining the original covers.

The paintwork - often the make-or-break point on a resto project - was carried out by a company called BSA, who utilised the correct (and, apparently, expensive) decals from Rick Brett, which were buried underneath the clear coat. Importantly, the paintwork remains true to the original Candy Green colour formula which will please even the most scrupulous of rivet-counters.

Mechanically, the engine has been considerately upgraded and fettled, with the following modifications carried out:

- Full carburettor service, retaining the original carbs supplied by the factory

- Fuel tank ‘prime delete’ conversion carried out

- Cylinders bored out to 72mm

- Wossner pistons, including rings, pins, clips and small-end bearings

- New clutch and gear selector shafts

- All new gaskets throughout the engine, including new copper cylinder head gaskets

- New chains and sprockets

- Refurbished oil pump

- Delkovic exhaust system

The previous owner chose to retain the stock brake setup, though the rear shoes and internals are new, whilst the original front calliper has been retained and has been refurbished with new pistons, seals and pads, before being powder-coated.

Ahead of the rider, the gauges have been refurbished and - crucially - calibrated, featuring new faces, glass and needles, though the rubber shrouds are original. The bezel has been powder-coated, whilst a new ignition barrel has been fitted and two keys are supplied. The switchgear has been upgraded to European-style items with the pass/flash button, whilst both grips are also new OE style items with the original plastic throttle remaining.

Importantly, not only have the gauges been refurbished, but also the seat. The base was painstakingly restored from its previously corroded state (as replacement items are all but nonexistent) and then powder-coated (including the hinges) and fitted with new pins, clips and a seat lock. The foam and leather cover were sourced from Bob the Seat, and covered by Herbert & Ellison.

All new cables have been fitted for all of the systems, including the clutch, throttles, choke and oil pump cables, whilst the correct period cable-ties have been used for frame and handlebar tethering.

Since being purchased by the current owner, the bike has remained virtually untouched, save for fitment of OE carburetta manifolds gaskets and internals.

As you can see, there really is virtually nothing that needs doing now, other than simply putting some gentle running-in miles on the rebuilt engine, some light fettling and continued maintenance - all part of the appeal of owning a classic vehicle, in our opinion!

Pristine is one word we’d use to describe this Kawasaki. Collectors quality is another phrase. It really does look absolutely astounding, and is virtually box-fresh in every sense.

The paintwork is simply wonderful, with a fantastic depth and metallic shimmer when the light hits it just-right. Similarly, the graphics and various Japanese/English warning stickers are crisp and fresh throughout.

Perhaps the only signs of wear-and-tear we noted were to the wheel rims and spokes, with some light patina visible. There are also some slight signs of wear to the switches and handles, with some dull chrome visible.

We also noted a couple of small marks on the front chrome mudguard, though we were being very picky here, as we always try to be.

Finally, there are a few small marks on the exhaust pipes - as expected - and the bottom of the stand is typically worn through use, though this is largely hidden.

That really is about it!

Technically, this section is redundant, on account of this vehicle being a motorbike and, therefore, not having an ‘interior’ as such.

However, the seat is in wonderful condition with no signs of wear-and-tear that we could see, whilst the gauges are all crystal-clear and working as they should be.

Under the seat, the OE-specification case for the spark plugs is present - which the vendor states would’ve cost a small fortune - and the lock for the seat is in full working order.

Following its rebuild and overhaul, the engine is reported to be in very good health, though it has covered only a handful of miles since being rebuilt. With this in mind, a general tune-up and perhaps a session on a dyno would be beneficial, to ensure this ‘triple’ performs in peak condition.

Starting with ease once some fuel had flowed into the carburettors, the bike ran wonderfully during our short video, and it should be noted that pre-mix is still being used in the fuel since the engine is being run-in, hence the presence of smoke from the exhaust. Once a standard fuel mixture is being used, this should be all but eliminated in regular use.

The engine is in excellent shape, with no heavy leaks (a small patch of staining was noted behind the offside carburettor) and no damage of any of the cooling fins.

The frame was also in excellent condition, again presenting entirely free of damage or wear.

Included with the bike is the V5 showing two former UK keepers, NOVA and registration documents, confirmation of the bikes age and specification, and a Haynes workshop manual.

The vendor states that they are waiting on a shipment of invoices relating to the engine rebuild and other works that have taken place, and these will be uploaded to the listing as soon as we receive them.

Presented in simply astounding condition throughout, this is a truly collectors-grade example of the desirable H2B, which would either take pride of place in a road-going collection, or be well-suited to a static museum or exhibition, should this be the path the next owner wishes to take.

Wanting for nothing other than be ridden and enjoyed, we estimate this 1974 Kawasaki H2B 750 to fetch in the region of £16,000 - £20,000 when the hammer falls.

Viewing is always encouraged. This bike is located with the seller in Highworth, Swindon. To arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller ’button at the top of the listing to make an appointment. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions.’