In 1967 Kawasaki introduced the A1R. With continuous development of the Yamaha twins these machines needed an upgrade to become competitive. In 1969 Kawasaki introduced the A1RA at Daytona with a very impressive works team including Dave Simmons, Cal Rayborn, Art Baumann, Walt Fulton and Dick Hammer. The A1RA featured an upgraded frame (a predecessor to the H1R), a dry clutch and revised carbs (30mm sand cast Mikunis) and expansion chambers. The A1R rear wheel was retained, the front upgraded to either a Ceriani or Fontana, later in the year using the H1R drum.