Beschreibung:

Founded by the Maisch brothers, Wilhelm and Otto, in the mid-1930s, Maisch & Co (Maico) built two-stroke lightweights at first but soon was forced to change direction to support Germany's war effort. After WW2, Maico turned to the manufacture of children's toys and did not resume motorcycle production until 1947. But whereas before the war proprietary engines had been used, Maico now built complete machines using its own power units. Although its roadsters made little impact in markets beyond central Europe, Maico became one of the major players on the international moto-cross scene in both Europe and North America. While nowhere near as well financed as the Japanese factories, Maico mounted a serious challenge to them thanks to stellar performances by the likes of Adolf Weil, Åke Jonsson, and Willy Bauer. The German firm won the Manufacturers' World Championship in the 500cc class but was never able to claim the individual title. Maico was one of the first manufacturers to adopt inclined shock absorbers, a move that greatly increased suspension travel at the rear. Believed to be an ex-USA works bike, this 250 Maico incorporates numerous special parts developed and sold by Wheelsmith Engineering of Santa Ana, California, the company that ran the factory's racing effort in the United States. Described by the private vendor as restored and in good condition, the machine has been kept in storage and will require re-commissioning before further use. There are no documents with this Lot, which is sold strictly as viewed.