BIKE OF THE MONTH

1970 Kawasaki H1 500

Congratulations to Mike Carpenter of Huntington Beach for winning Bike of the Month with his 1970 Kawasaki H1 500. Mike won a Mr. Pete's Grill T-shirt and gift certificate.

This was the first time Mike has brought his H1 to our meet. The bike has come full circle. It was bought brand new in April 1970 in Huntington Beach by the original owner Guy Lindenberger, Mike's good friend. Both had wanted an H1 since their introduction in 1969, but they had to save their money up to buy them. Mike purchased his first H1 two months later in June 1970.

Not too long after that, Mike met his wife and gave up his H1 for a car.

After Guy's untimely passing in 1984 and the bike was sold, however it was never paid for so his brother went and collected and stored it in his Redding California barn with his 45 other bikes.

Fast forward 30 years when Guy's son gave the bike to Mike so he could restore it in honor of his friend. Mike picked the bike up in April 2014.

According to Mike the bike is 90% original, aside from some added chrome plating.

Many people have contributed to this restoration. Mike utilized Z1 Parts of San Marcos for many parts and recommendations.

The motor was rebuilt by Ron Rogers in Crestline, CA and the Crank was balanced and blue printed by Dave Singleton. Custom Chrome in Anaheim did the chrome work and Wheel Works in Garden Grove rebuilt his wheels. The paint was done in a shop in San Marcos.

Thanks Mike for bringing it to our meet. See all the photos in our August Gallery.