In an attempt to crack the export market, Kawasaki tried reviving some of the old Meguro models, but failed to make a dent. It was only when they came up with the 250cc Samurai that things began to change in their favour. Followed by the 350cc Avenger and then the mercurial 500cc Mach III 'widow-maker', they had discovered the magical formula to captivate the international motorcyclist's heart, ultimate performance. After making an international reputation with their radical two strokes, Kawasaki started to develop large four strokes, resulting in the 900 Z1. Further four strokes followed, but they never forgot their roots were in two strokes, and their hooligan past was not dead, merely lying dormant until it was reawakened with the KR1 in 1988. State of the art technology was used, with liquid cooling, balance shaft, crescent-slide carburettors, electronic ignition, six-speed gearbox, and an alloy box-section frame. Power was impressive for a 250, and the following year it was boosted again with the new KR1S version to become the ultimate 250. J539 SDC was purchased by the vendor in 2010, at which time it was in running order. However, it has not been used for the past 10 years and will therefore require a new battery and general re-commissioning before further use by a new owner. It displays an odometer reading of 20,700 miles and is presently SORNed. Documentation consists of a V5C.

This motorcycle is to be auctioned at our Live and Online Winter Sale, Hanger 113, Bicester Heritage, OX26 5HA.

SALE TIMES

Friday 11 December
Spares & Memorabilia (Lot 1 - 112) 9am
The National Motorcycle Museum Reserve Collection (Lots 201 – 252) 11am


Saturday 12 December
Motorcycles (Day 2) (Lots 501 – 708) 10am



VIEWING
In light of the current government guidelines and relaxed measures we are delighted to welcome viewing, strictly by appointment. All the lots will be on view at Bicester Heritage in our traditional Hangar 113. We will ensure social distancing measures are in place, with gloves and sanitiser available for clients wishing to view motorcycle history files.


Please contact Bonhams Motorcycles by clicking 'Message the seller' with your preferred date, time and vehicle registration number to book an appointment.


VIEWING TIMES
Wednesday 9 December 9am to 5pm
Thursday 10 December 9am to 5pm
Friday 11 December 9am to 5pm (Lots 501 – 708 only)


LIVE AND ONLINE AUCTION

Please note that whilst public viewing is available by appointment, the auction itself will be conducted from a remote saleroom, behind closed doors without public access, in accordance with the current government guidelines. All bidding will be conducted via Online, Telephone and Absentee Bidding. Please contact our Bids Department to register using the 'Message the seller' button.


COLLECTION OF PURCHASED LOTS

Motorcycle lots must be cleared from the sale venue by 2pm Sunday 13 December 2020. Limited collection is available until 2pm Monday 14 December, by appointment only. If collecting Monday, please access Bicester Heritage via the 'Main Gate', Buckingham Road, OX26 5HA. Please email us using the 'Message the seller' button with your collection or transport instructions as soon as possible following your successful bid. Failure to instruct Bonhams by the given time will result in your vehicle being uplifted to store at your expense, as detailed in the Conditions of Sale. Buyers should satisfy themselves that they have collected all relevant log books, documents and keys relating to their Lot(s) at time of collection.


AUCTION ADDRESS

Hangar 113
Bicester Heritage
Buckingham Road
Bicester
Oxfordshire
OX26 5HA