Japanese classics auctioned - Two rare predecessors of Suzuki and Kawasaki up for sale

Two rare predecessors of the first production Suzuki and Kawasaki motorcycles are among the stars of a classic motorcycle auction in April.

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A 1958 Colleda 250 TT, made under the ‘SJK’ name before the Suzuki brand was adopted in 1964, plus a 1963 Meguro, made before the company was absorbed into Kawasaki a year later, both star at the Shuttleworth Spring Motorcycle Sale on Sunday, 7 April.

The Colleda is the only known example outside Japan and, as a 247cc two-stroke twin, is a predecessor to Suzuki’s T20 and GT250. It’s presented in ‘original and unrestored’ condition and is expected to fetch £12,000-£14,000.

The Meguro is an S-8 250 Junior, a 250cc OHV single, and the brand’s last model. Meguro was one of the first Japanese motorcycle manufacturers starting production in the late 1930s before becoming part of Kawasaki Heavy Industries in 1960, with the name finally dropped in 1964.

This example is also in ‘original and unrestored’ condition and is expected to fetch around £6000-£8000.

Mark Bryan, Head of Motorcycle Sales at Iconic Auctioneers said: “These two Japanese bikes may not be big value lots, but as they are super rare, I know they will attract some serious worldwide attention.”

Visit iconicauctioneers.com for more.