Post-Sale Update: This Marusho sold for $7,207 after 31 bids on eBay.
Marusho/Lilac was a Japanese motorcycle manufacturer that was constantly under the shadow of Honda. After peaking in the late 50s, the company went bankrupt in 1962. The company was brought back to life just a year later, free of debts and configured to specifically target the American market with a 500cc twin engine – quite large displacement for Japanese firms at the time. As they had no experience building engines this large, the Marusho Magnum Electra was powered by a copy of the BMW /2’s 500cc engine to help speed up development, though only some internal parts were interchangeable.
Some riders believe that the Japanese ‘copy’ was actually a better bike in nearly every way, though I can’t say I’m a fan of the tank styling. As you might guess, the Electra is named for having an electric start. For more information, head on over to the Marusho/Lilac Registry.
This Marusho Magnum Electra is 1 of just 123 ever built. Only 50 are currently in the Marusha registry, and this is #65 built. It’s all original and has just 6,351 miles. It’s been stored for a few years and needs a wash, but it’s in good shape minus the right tank badge which has fallen off. The seller still has it, so glue it on and get riding!
Find this Marusho Magnum Electra for sale with bidding up to $4,250 and the reserve not yet met in Saint Louis, Missouri