1973 Maico 400

In 1973 there were a couple of slogans regarding Maico dirt racers. “You are either riding a Maico or chasing one” and “Maico Breako”. Neither one was quite correct.

There is no doubt that in the early 1970s that Maico along with Husqvarna and Bultaco were the big 3 of motocross. By 1973 the Japanese makers had improved enough to be at least competitive and the European dominance was over.

Maico made big waves in 1972 with the introduction of their ‘radial’ motor that not only sported a unique look but made very good power to go with the well known handling of the brand.

The 1973 Maico 400 used a 386 CC air cooled two stroke single cylinder motor that made 44 HP with a 4 speed transmission and total weight of 216 LBS. The Maico had very good geometry and suspension bits that yielded an extremely good ride.

This particular 1973 Maico 400 (VIN# 385-0xx) is located in Springfield, Missouri and is listed as a complete restoration by Bill West. It is listed as a very early 1973 but the frame and motor numbers indicate 1972 as the year of manufacture. The bike has a Buy It Now price of $6,700