1971 - 1972 Kawasaki S2 350SS MKII

Make Model	Kawasaki S2 350SS MKII
Year	1971 - 72
Engine	Two stroke, transverse three cylinder
Capacity	346 cc / 21 cu-in
Cooling System	Air cooled
Bore x Stroke	53 x 52.3 mm
Compression Ratio	7,3:1
Induction	3x Mikuni VM24SC, Ø 24 mm carburetors
Ignition	Battery and coil
Starting	Kick
Max Power	45 hp / 33.5 kW @ 8000 rpm
Max Torque	30.7 lb-ft 41.6 Nm @ 7000 rpm
Transmission	5 Speed
Final Drive	Chain
Frame	Double cradle tubular
Front Suspension	Telescopic Hydraulic forks
Rear Suspension	Dual shocks, Swing arm
Front Brakes	180mm Drum
Rear Brakes	180mm Drum
Front Tyre	3.00 -18
Rear Tyre	3.50 -18
Trail	109 mm / 4.3 in
Dimensions	Length 2010 mm / 79 in Width 1095 mm / 43.1 in
Wheelbase	1330 mm / 52 in
Seat Height	800 mm / 31 in
Dry Weight	151 kg / 332.8lbs
Fuel Capacity	14 Litres / 3.7 US gal

After the success of Honda it was not so easy in the late sixties for a new Japanese marquee to create an image of itself. Kawasaki, however, succeeded brilliantly in establishing a reputation as an exclusive specialist in sporting motorcycles. It hung on to its reputation in racing, even though its range is considerably larger nowadays.

Bone Splintering Acceleration

It all began in 1969 when Kawasaki introduced the 500 H1, a three cylinder machine with terrifying acceleration that gave a new dimension to the concept of sporting bikes. Then Kawasaki's French importer, Xavier Maugendre, had the vision to form the Kawa-Godier endurance racing team, which finished first and second in the 1974 Bol d'Or and went one better in 1975 event by coming in 1-2-3.

One Make Formula

In 1971, Maugendre, a dyed in the wool racing enthusiast, inaugurated the "Coupe Kawasaki-Moto Revue", a one make formula that would be copied all over Europe. Initially, the Coupe Kawasaki was based on the 350cc Avenger twin but enjoyed its greatest success from 1972 on, when the formula centered on the three cylinder 350 S2. this was derived from the famous 500 H1, probably the most explosive motorcycle of its era, and - though it performed better on a circuit than on the road - the S2 was a little more civilized than the H1.