This is the prototype KR350 sent to Team Kawasaki Australia for development during 1977. It was built in ’77 and based on a ’76 KR250. The modified 250 motor had a larger bore and a capacity of 306cc.
Kawasaki’s KR350 as ridden by Greg Hansford The bike originally featured a KR250 motor bored to 306cc
Gregg Hansford tested the bike and resulting changes included modified KR750 front brakes being fitted. In 1979 a full 350cc motor was installed and the bike was raced by Rick Perry in 1980, winning the 350cc ARRC.
KR750 brakes were added on Hansford’s feedback A 350 engine was added in 1979 and Rick Perry rode the bike to ARRC victory in 1980
One of the interesting features of the motor is that the water pump casing was cast integrally with the side case, rather than being a seperate unit. I was surprised to note that the whole barrel assembly is angled at 15º to the centreline of the motor.
Kawasaki’s KR350 as ridden by Greg Hansford
Overseas Kork Ballington won the 1978 350cc World Championship with a dominant 9 wins. Hansford finishing 3rd with 3 victories. The result was the same the following year with five and three wins respectively.
Kork Ballington won the 1978 350cc World Championship, with Hansford third Racing success continued until 1981!
Phil Aynsley sadly passed away in 2023 after a life spent travelling the world photographing many of the rarest and most beautiful motorcycles ever made. We are proud to continue showcasing his catalogue of work on MCNews.com.au.
