The 1974.5 Maico 400GP recently listed for sale on eBay was rebuilt from the ground up in 2021. Last year, the race machine won the AMA Vintage Grand Championship - opens in new window or tab..
That series captures “a simpler time and remind us what’s fundamentally cool about riding motorcycles,” according to the AMA organizers.
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Hard-Earned Reputation for Performance
Maico was founded in 1926 as Maicowerk in Germany. But it wasn’t until after World War II that the firm became known for building top-notch two-stroke engines - opens in new window or tab.. The brand made its most lasting imprint on the enduro and motocross with the arrival of the 400GP in 1970.
Maico is now best remembered as the weapon of choice for Open Class racers in Europe. In the 1970s—here in the US—the Maico 400GP competed against better known bikes like the Suzuki TM400 - opens in new window or tab. and Husqvarna 400CR - opens in new window or tab..
The bike uses a straightforward two-stroke, single-cylinder 400cc engine which, despite its lack of reed-valve technology, produces about 55 horsepower.That’s enough to deliver impressive off-road performance from the lightweight 234-pound bike.
If Maico had used reeds, the unburnt mixture wouldn’t wash back into the carburetor when the throttle was closed. In turn, that would allow the combustion chamber to reload with greater efficiency and power.
Then there’s the handling. Reviewers report that the 400GP’s manners and predictability are beyond reproach, thanks mostly to its leading-axle front suspension. Moving the pivot point behind the front wheel results in greater suspension travel and enables the bike to more easily self-correct.
We’re not sure why Maico uses half-year increments in its nomenclature. If you know, please add to the comments below.
Race Ready
Sean Eisen, a local municipality truck mechanic from Cary, Ill., is selling the bike after earning the National Vintage Series Championship last year.
Eisen said:
The 400cc motor is strong. I built it and the rest of the machine in 2020, then did a few meetings the following year just to get dialled in.
The Maico remains ready to race. Eisen added these items to the 400GP:
- A clutch upgrade with a smaller item from a later model
- Rebuilt wheels by renowned wheelsmiths DUBYA of Orange, Calif.
- Front forks - opens in new window or tab. with new tubes, springs, and valves
Easy on the Eyes
This Maico 400GP has an unmistakable appearance featuring a coffin fuel tank - opens in new window or tab. (flat sides and squared-off edges) and spread-out cooling fins running the length of the cylinder head and barrel. However, Eisen said this particular coffin tank was custom-made, so it isn’t original.
Nonetheless, it looks beautiful with extra creases on the top and sides, which are arguably an improvement over the original factory tank.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.