Post Sale Update: This Tohatsu sold for the BIN of $3,000 on eBay in Maple Valley, Washington.
Founded in 1922, the Japanese firm Tohatsu is now best known for their outboard motors. But in the 50s and 60s, they produced some excellent two-stroke bikes and dominated the market – in the 50s, they had 22% of their home market, outselling all other Japanese manufacturers. One of their better known two-wheelers was the Runpet, also known as the CA-2.
A 1962 ad by the US distributor (Hap Jones) shows that the Runpet Sport 50 was sold alongside a base Runpet 50 and a Sport 125. The bike featured here had a claimed 63 mph top speed thanks to the 6.8 horsepower two-stroke single. For more information, check out this Retrospective on Rider Magazine’s website.
This example (VIN: CA216131) is offered by a gentleman who had a motorcycle dealership and kept a few projects around as they “were good for keeping mechanics busy in the off-season.” He sold the dealership and isn’t interested in restoring, so he’s putting up a few for sale. It’s offered with a Washington title.
Find this Runpet for sale in Maple Valley, Washington with a BIN of $3,000 or best offer here on eBay.