Kawasaki H2 Mach IV

The Kawasaki H2 Mach IV arrived in 1972 as the bigger, faster successor to the already fearsome 500cc H1. Its 748cc 2-stroke triple engine produced around 74 horsepower, delivering it with a notoriously abrupt powerband that earned the bike the nickname 'Widowmaker.' It was one of the fastest accelerating production motorcycles of its time, cementing its legend as a wild and untamed machine.

Collectors prize the H2 for its raw, unfiltered character and its status as a high point for large-displacement 2-stroke street bikes. Before emissions and noise regulations toned things down, the Mach IV offered a sensory experience that's impossible to replicate today. Its reputation for challenging handling only adds to the mystique, attracting riders who want a true 1970s superbike thrill.

The market for the H2 is well-established, with an average price around $19,000. The wide sales range shows a clear distinction between rider-quality examples and perfectly restored, low-mileage bikes. The earliest 1972 models, with their more aggressive engine tune and classic styling, are typically the most sought-after by collectors.

Prices range from $9,600 for rider-quality bikes to $40,000 for top-spec examples.