Rupp Industries was based in Mansfield, Ohio, and for nearly 20 years they were able to compete with Honda and other Japanese manufacturers for a share of the lucrative mini bike market. Their top-of-the-line competition bike was the Black Widow, which was based on the Roadster/2. This example is also based on the Roadster, because it’s unfortunately only a replica.
The Black Widow is probably the best-known of Rupp’s creations. It paired a 4 horsepower Tecumseh motor with a Dell’Orto carb and it was specifically designed for off-road competition. It also featured a straight exhaust and 12″ spoke wheels with motocross tires. Leftover ’71 bikes were sold as ’72s and thus ended the Black Widow line.
An advertisement for the Black Widow. Photo from Wikipedia.
Per the seller, this bike (VIN: 5601275) is equipped with ‘all the Black Widow features” and it’s in “really nice shape.”
Find this Black Widow clone for sale in Ormond Beach, Florida for $2,450 or best offer here on Craigslist.
This bike-uriousity brought to you by David N!