Before the electric Honda Motocompacto, and even its predecessor from the 1980s, the Motocompo, there was another folding scooter from Japan. That was the Fuji Go-Devil, which has recently appeared on Facebook Marketplace in Columbus, Ohio.
Launched in 1964, the Go-Devil was produced by Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent organization of Subaru. It debuted with a 50cc, single-cylinder, two-stroke engine. Simple tube-frame construction and tiny five-inch wheels enabled it to fold and fit into a trendy travel bag. The rear wheel is connected to a swing arm featuring a single shock absorber, while the front is fixed.
The seller is asking for $12,000, asserting that this price is supported by recent sale prices for Go-Devils in similar condition on Bring a Trailer. Out of 13 Go-Devils sold on the auction site, three reached five-digit prices. A 1968 model went for $35,000 in 2022, but that particular one was still in its original packaging. Most sales were significantly lower, with the latest—another 1964 model—fetching just $3,300 this past August.
In contrast, a new Motocompacto is priced at just $995, eliminating the need to manage foul two-stroke exhaust emissions or the Fuji’s pull-starter. It also weighs around 30 pounds less than the Go-Devil, at 41.3 pounds. When folded, the Motocompacto is longer and shorter than the Go-Devil, but the most notable distinction is its narrower width, thanks to the absence of an engine.
The Go-Devil is a fascinating historical artifact, but it might have potential beyond that. Envision if Subaru introduced a modern electric variant to complement its four-wheeled EV initiatives, similar to Honda’s approach with the Motocompacto.
### 1965 Folding Two-Stroke Scooter: A Vintage Motocompo-Inspired Model
The 1965 Folding Two-Stroke Scooter marks an important milestone in the development of personal transportation. This groundbreaking vehicle merged functionality with a distinctive design, capturing the essence of the era while setting the stage for future urban mobility innovations. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Motocompo, this scooter was crafted for ease, portability, and aesthetic appeal.
#### Design and Features
The 1965 Folding Two-Stroke Scooter had a compact, foldable framework that facilitated easy storage and transport. Its lightweight build made it an ideal option for urban residents requiring a dependable mode of transport without the cumbersome nature of a conventional motorcycle or scooter. The folding mechanism was straightforward yet efficient, allowing users to collapse the scooter into a manageable size suitable for a car trunk or to be carried on public transport.
The scooter was equipped with a two-stroke engine, which offered a blend of power and efficiency. This engine type was favored during the 1960s due to its lightweight nature and ability to provide lively performance, making it well-suited for city commuting. The two-stroke engine also gave the scooter its unique sound, which became a defining feature of its identity.
#### Performance and Handling
Featuring a small-displacement engine, the 1965 Folding Two-Stroke Scooter delivered a top speed adequate for urban travel. Its agile handling and responsive throttle made maneuvering through crowded streets a breeze, while the lightweight chassis allowed for quick acceleration and agility. Riders enjoyed the scooter’s stability, enhanced by its low center of gravity and well-engineered suspension system.
#### Cultural Impact
The 1965 Folding Two-Stroke Scooter emerged during a period of notable cultural transformation. The 1960s were characterized by a rising interest in alternative transportation methods, as urban development accelerated and car ownership became widespread. This scooter attracted a younger audience seeking freedom and uniqueness, embodying the ethos of the counterculture movement.
Not only was the design of the scooter practical, but it was also stylish, adorned with vibrant colors and sleek lines that appealed to the aesthetic tastes of the time. It became a representation of youthful defiance and independence, commonly seen in urban environments and popularized through cinema and media.
#### Legacy
Despite the limited production of the 1965 Folding Two-Stroke Scooter, its impact is still evident in contemporary scooters and folding bicycles. The focus on portability and user-friendliness has inspired modern designs aimed at urban commuters. The scooter’s legacy is also mirrored in the ongoing appeal of two-stroke engines in various small vehicles, despite the trend towards more environmentally sustainable alternatives.
In summary, the 1965 Folding Two-Stroke Scooter serves as a tribute to cutting-edge design and cultural relevance. Its blend of practicality, performance, and style has made a lasting impression on the realm of personal transportation, establishing it as a beloved classic among fans and collectors alike.