The Rikuo is a hardtail, so the highbacked sprung saddle and back tire and spokes provide the only suspension for the rear.
The Rikuo’ s 45-degree side-valve V-Twin is based on Harley-Davidson’ s VL flathead engine design from the 1930s. A failure to innovate led to Rikuo’ s demise in 1960.
Even the speedometer, which runs in reverse, still works perfectly. It’ s amazing to see the red neutral light and spotlights still functioning after all these years.”
Rikuo motorcycles closely followed Harley- Davidson’ s VL flathead designs but included modifications for Japanese conditions. Like the VL, the Rikuos featured side- valve V- Twins that ranged in displacement from 737cc to 1,200cc. The bikes also had a classic cruiser aesthetic, with large fenders and tank- mounted speedos. The frame was tubular steel, with reinforced variants for military models, and suspension included a springer fork for civilian models, later replaced by a telescopic fork. Front and rear drum brakes provided stopping power. Military models also featured rugged tires and sidecars.
The 750cc Rikuo features a 4- speed gearbox, 16- inch wheels, and a tilting rear fender for easy maintenance. It’ s equipped with butterfly crash bars, and its chromed oil tank evokes the design language of Harley- Davidson’ s Softail models from the 2000s.
One unique feature is the highbacked seat, which requires careful mounting to avoid losing footing. The bike also boasts foldable pillion footpegs and dual parking stands.
Williamson plans to register the Rikuo for road use under New Zealand’ s classic vehicle program. While he’ s not actively looking to sell, he acknowledges that the bike could fetch a new owner for the right price.
RIKUO’ S LEGACY While Rikuo motorcycles were not groundbreaking, they were reliable, well- built machines that reflected the industrial capabilities of their time. Their Harley- Davidson lineage adds to their appeal.
Fully restored Rikuo motorcycles can command $ 25,000- $ 40,000, while well- preserved originals often sell for $ 20,000- $ 30,000. Production estimates suggest that Rikuo manufactured around 18,000 units before World War II and an additional 7,000- 8,000 after the war.
For collectors like Williamson, Rikuo motorcycles are more than just machines; they’ re a link to a unique period in motorcycle history.“ This bike is a testament to craftsmanship and a bridge between two motorcycle cultures,” he said.“ It’ s a piece of history I’ m proud to own.”
Rikuo motorcycles may have faded into obscurity, but their legacy endures in the hands of passionate collectors. They are a reminder of a time when American ingenuity and Japanese craftsmanship came together, creating a motorcycle that was as much about history as it was about the road.
AMERICANRIDER. COM | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2025 | 47