1959 Lilac CF 40
Country: Japan
Engine: Air-cooled v-twin 4-stroke
Ignition: Battery and coil
Power Rating: 18.5hp @ 7,800rpm
Bore x Stroke: 54x54mm
Displacement: 247cc
Valves: Overhead, pushrod-activated
Fuel System: Twin Amal-Mikuni carburetors
Transmission: 4-speed, rotary shift pattern
Suspension: Front telescopic forks, rear twin shock
Brakes: Front and rear drum
Weight: 365lb.
Top Speed: 82mph
The Lilac V-twins are very rare classic Japanese motorcycles, with only 14 known to exist (nine are in their native Japan). Built by the Marusho Company, Lilac motorcycles were supposedly named after the favorite flower of the owner's wife. Extremely well constructed and with features such as electric start and shaft drive, these machines are similar in design to the German Victoria Bergmeister. This particular Lilac was donated to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum by Gerry D. Verner of Murphysboro, Illinois.
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Poor engine quality bikes from the student of Honda San Masashi Ito who wanted to create his own 2 wheeler imperium named Marusho Motor Co. VW Beetle engines fitted perfectly in these frames and were a guarantee for trouble free touring.
Back in the early 70's, there was a 250 Lilac in Springwood, west of Sydney, Australia - wish I knew what happened to it...painted purple, as I recall..
pretty neat. Glad for the vid as it shows L side & more of bike than in pic. Every entry U have had has specs too which I really appreciate! Thanks, keep up the truly great work. Chad