1963 Rabbit Superflow Model S-601
Frame no. 61-S601-34003

Japan's first scooter was built by Fuji Heavy Industries and remarkably emerged from the ruins of the Second World War in 1946. Based on four-stroke 135cc engine delivering 2 hp, the Rabbit had a padded cushion seat and luggage rack. Through the 1950s the Rabbit was progressively improved, with barrel-spring suspension at both ends arriving with the S-23 in 1950. The model range was expanded to three models by the mid-1950s, with the flagship S-61 boasting an electric starter and a 225cc engine, delivering 5.9 hp. This was in turn superseded by the Superflow S-101 in 1957, with a 250cc engine and torque converter automatic transmission. In addition to the electric start the S-101 had turn signals at the front and rear, full instrumentation (complete with a warning for excessive speed!), a parking brake and foot-operated headlamp dimmer. The Superflow had typically Japanese styling, with plenty of chrome and streamlined body panels in keeping with the Jet Age.

Part of an extensive private scooter collection for the past ten years, this 1963 Rabbit S-601 was restored for the current owner using New Old Stock parts sourced from around the world. A rare find in Australia, the scooter has been stored for the last couple of years and would be fantastic as a display piece or, with minor recommissioning, would be a great alternative to the more common Italian scooters as a classic commuter.

Own a similar item?

Submit your item online for a free auction estimate.

How to sell

Looking for a similar item?

Our Collector Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.

Find your local specialist

Specialist section

Motor Cars (Australia)

[email protected]

Client Services (Australia)

Tel: +61 2 8412 2222

[email protected]

Viewings

21 October 2011, 09:00 - 21:00 AEDT
22 October 2011, 09:00 - 21:00 AEDT
23 October 2011, 09:00 - 17:00 AEDT

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact customer services.
Buyers' Obligations
ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.
If you have any complaints or questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest client services team.
Buyers' Premium and Charges
Like the vast majority of auctioneers Bonhams charge a Buyer's Premium on the Hammer Price of each Lot purchased and this is subject to VAT. Some lots may also be subject to VAT on the Hammer Price and these lots will be clearly marked with a symbol ( †, Ω, *) printed beside the lot number.
For Automobilia the Buyer's Premium is 28% on the first £40,000 of the hammer price; 27% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £40,001 up to and including £800,000; 21% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £800,001 up to and including £4,500,000 and 14.5% of the hammer price of any amounts in excess of £4,500,001. (subject to VAT)
For Motor Cars and Vehicle Registration Numbers the Buyer's Premium will be 15% on the first £500,000 of the Hammer Price of each Lot, and 12% on the balance thereafter.
VAT at the standard rate is payable on the Buyers Premium by all Buyers, unless otherwise stated.
Shipping Notices
For information and estimates on domestic and international shipping as well as export licenses please contact Bonhams Shipping Department.

1963 Rabbit Superflow Model S-601Frame no. 61-S601-34003