Full Description
SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED
A sparkling UK Kawasaki AE50 – A1 with just two owners from new.
EQUIPMENT
Tubular semi double cradle frame, 6.5 litre fuel tank, Magneto CDI ignition, high ground clearance, up and over exhaust, deep action suspensions, Uni-Trak rear suspension, rear carrier, tool box, Superlube lubrication, speedometer, ignition switch incorporating park light, turn signal switch, headlight switch, neutral indicator, two-stroke oil light, horn, rear footrests, fuel valve, steering lock, helmet holder.
EXTERIOR
An affiliation of the AR models, the AE variant was the all-terrain styled version with the E denoting ‘Enduro’ as opposed to R for Roadrace. Finished in the original colour of Firecracker Red, the appearance of this successful and iconic motorcycle can only be described as stunning down to every nut, bolt and clip. This collectable AE50-A1 variant is from the models launch year in 1982 and the UK production frame number falls within the correct range for the A1. The Enduro styling of these early models are distinguished by unique decals and the paintwork to the tank and faring is flawless, the former having and ultra-rare clip holding the breather pipe. The black full cradle frame and racetrack proven Uni-Trak rear suspension are pristine. Industry leading Kawasaki AR50/80 AE50/80 UK Specialists, Holmetech of Chorley, are to be given full credit for this tremendous example whereby years of knowledge and painstaking sourcing of genuine NOS parts sets this build apart from the norm.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The robust air-cooled 2-stroke engine has a 49cc displacement with an automatic Superlube oil injection to help ensure maximum convenience and reliability. Proven reed-valve induction combined with electronic CD Ignition (CDI) delivers the kind of power that has enthralled a generation of first time young riders. The detail and level of workmanship is breathtaking and the correct genuine AE50 exhaust for the UK market bares clear part number stampings. Maximum power is 2.9hp at 4750 rpm and maximum torque at 4.5Nm at 4000 rpm giving a restricted 35mph top speed. This is a matching numbers example with both engine and frame numbers visible. The 5-speed close-ratio gearbox operates correctly with smooth gear changes and the bike kicks into life effortlessly and sounds utterly fantastic. Not just a showpiece!
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
This AE50 is fitted with chromed rim and spoke wheels fully rebuilt in fabulous condition with clear manufacturer Takasago stampings to the new rims. Brand new Vee Rubber 2.75-19 rear and 3.00-16 front tyres are fitted for the period look and have covered zero miles. Dustproof/waterproof drum brakes front and rear are standard fitment.
HISTORY FILE
Registered in the UK on the 17th December 1982 with a frame number of 005044 this AE50-A1 variant is highly collectable. In the hands of just two keepers and having covered just 3,849 miles, this example was discovered by Phil Holme, owner of Holmetech Motorcycle Sales & Restorations and respected experts in the Kawasaki AR/AE model fraternity. A nut and bolt restoration involved Phil plundering his vast supply of NOS genuine parts to make this build as incredible and accurate as possible with just some of the new genuine parts to include mirrors, grips and throttle tube, cables, chain adjuster, Uni-Trak rocker arm bushes, inlet oil check-valve and ignition key which fits all lock barrels. This painstaking and meticulous build has been rewarded with the bike winning 1st prize in the 1980’s bike category at the Stafford Bike Show in 2023, a truly amazing accolade to win against the vast number of amazing machines in attendance.
An invoice from Holmetech breaks down in detail the restoration with the cost of £9,680. Two genuine Kawasaki keys, a sales brochure and AE/AR workshop manual are present. With most AE’s abused and abandoned in fields, this bike is almost certainly the best AE50 on the planet, this is an unmissable opportunity and rarely offered. Perfect for the man cave!
HPI Clear