1973 Kawasaki F12 MX

In early 1972, Kawasaki recognized the potential of a growing motocross market and they set out to design the ultimate motocross weapon. This model was a ground up design featuring magnesium hubs, chromoly frame, Kayaba “Hammer Head” shocks, plastic fenders and tank. It weighs only 212 pounds. Brad Lackey claimed that the bikes were so fast that they should have been banned. You can see him on his factory F 12 MX in the photos of the museum. Only about 150 of these bikes were produced and released to the public, but by 1974 they were produced in masses and were dubbed the KX 450. They were a handful and it took a few more years for Kawasaki to develop a true open class contender.

MAKE / MODEL: KAWASAKI F12 MX

YEAR: 1973 ENGINE DISPLACEMENT: 450 CC

COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE: JAPAN

ORIGINAL PURCHASE PRICE NEW: $1,130.00

THIS BIKE IS:

_  NEW, NEVER BEEN STARTED

_  ORIGINAL UNRESTORED

_  PARTIALLY RESTORED

X  FULLY RESTORED

RESTORATION WORK PERFORMED BY: CLAY SETZER

OWNER: KELLY OWEN