1973 SUZUKI TM400 K CYCLONE

THE LEGENDARY “WIDOWMAKER” – ONE OWNER INCREDIBLE ORIGINAL SURVIVOR – RESTORATION PROJECT!

RARE ORIGINAL SUZUKI TM400 | LEGENDARY 400cc TWO-STROKE MOTOCROSS MACHINE | ORIGINAL PAINT & COMPONENTS | ONE-OWNER HISTORY | EXCELLENT RESTORATION CANDIDATE

THE LEGENDARY SUZUKI TM400 “WIDOWMAKER”!

Check out this incredible piece of motocross history! Offered for sale by Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum is this 1973 Suzuki TM400 Cyclone, one of the most infamous and recognizable motocross motorcycles of the 1970s!

Nicknamed the “Widowmaker,” the TM400 earned its reputation with a brutally powerful 400cc two-stroke engine, explosive power delivery, and handling characteristics that demanded the rider's full attention. These machines were absolute beasts in their day, and nearly 53 years later, they remain one of the most talked-about Japanese motocross bikes ever produced.

This particular TM400 is something truly special: an exceptionally original, one-owner survivor that has avoided the modifications, abuse, and missing components so commonly found on vintage motocross machines.

We purchased this motorcycle directly from its original owner, who had owned it since new. It retains an extraordinary number of its original factory components, right down to the handlebars, grips, levers, front tire, exhaust, and seat cover!

Finding one of these legendary machines in this level of original, unrestored condition is becoming increasingly difficult.

REMARKABLE ORIGINALITY – A TRUE SURVIVOR!

What makes this TM400 so desirable is its incredible originality. Unlike so many vintage motocross bikes that have been raced, modified, stripped, or parted out over the decades, this example remains remarkably complete.

Original factory components include:

• Original Suzuki fuel tank with factory green paint and TM graphics

• Original front and rear fenders

• Original factory number plates and side covers

• Original Suzuki 400cc two-stroke engine

• Original factory expansion-chamber exhaust

• Original handlebars and crossbar pad

• Original Suzuki factory handgrips

• Original clutch and brake levers

• Original seat and factory seat cover

• Original front and rear wheels

• Original front tire!

• Original footpegs

• Original frame and swingarm assembly

The rear tire is the only replacement component identified.

Take a close look at the photographs. Even the original painted fenders remain intact, with the characteristic black material visible beneath areas where the factory paint has chipped.

These are the little details that make a genuine vintage survivor special.

The original Suzuki grips are still on the handlebars. The factory levers remain intact. Even the original crossbar pad has survived more than five decades!

This is exactly the kind of motorcycle that serious vintage Suzuki collectors and restoration enthusiasts appreciate.

BEAUTIFUL ORIGINAL FACTORY FUEL TANK!

One of the most valuable and difficult-to-find components on a vintage TM400 is the original fuel tank.

This motorcycle still has its original factory green fuel tank with the distinctive TM graphics and blue-and-white accents!

The tank presents exceptionally well for its age, with only one small ding noted on one side.

Finding a good original TM400 tank today is no easy task. Many of these bikes were raced hard, crashed, or parted out decades ago, leaving original fuel tanks dented, damaged, or missing entirely.

The tank on this motorcycle is a major highlight of the package and an excellent foundation for a museum-quality restoration or preservation project.

ORIGINAL EXHAUST – ANOTHER HARD-TO-FIND COMPONENT!

The factory exhaust system is another standout feature of this motorcycle.

Anyone familiar with vintage motocross bikes knows how commonly the original expansion chambers were smashed, crushed, or replaced during their racing careers.

This TM400 retains its original factory exhaust, which is in remarkably good condition for its age.

There are a couple of small dents, but the pipe has not suffered the extensive crushing and damage so commonly seen on unrestored motocross machines.

The original exhaust alone is a significant asset for anyone planning a historically accurate restoration.

LOW-WEAR CHASSIS – EXCELLENT RESTORATION FOUNDATION!

Based on our inspection, this motorcycle appears to have seen relatively limited use compared with many surviving vintage motocross bikes.

The frame is in excellent condition, with no significant damage noted.

The wheel bearings remain tight, and there is no noticeable play in the swingarm pivot.

The original wheels, forks, handlebars, controls, and footpegs remain intact.

These details are encouraging indicators of the motorcycle's overall condition and make it an especially appealing candidate for a proper restoration.

The engine also turns over and is NOT seized.

However, the motorcycle is not currently running and will require mechanical repairs before it can be operated.

IMPORTANT MECHANICAL DISCLOSURE – ENGINE CASE REPAIR REQUIRED

We want to be completely transparent about this motorcycle's condition.

According to the original owner, during the mid-1970s he damaged the lower engine case while riding the motorcycle.

At the time, he applied an epoxy-type repair, similar to JB Weld, to the damaged areas.

That old repair remains visible today.

The engine cases are damaged and will need to be replaced or professionally repaired before this motorcycle can be safely returned to running condition.

Replacement engine cases can be sourced through ebay or through the vintage Suzuki forums parts market.

The engine turns over and is not seized, but we have not completed a full engine teardown or internal inspection.

The motorcycle will also require the normal inspection and recommissioning expected of a vintage machine that has been sitting for many years.

It is being sold strictly AS-IS, as a non-running restoration project.

WHY ARE WE SELLING SUCH AN ORIGINAL CLASSIC?

Here at Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum, we specialize in preserving, restoring, and bringing historic motorcycles back to life.

We would absolutely love to restore this TM400 ourselves.

However, we currently have approximately 240 motorcycles waiting for service, restoration, or resale, with additional collections and truckloads of classic motorcycles continuing to arrive.

There simply aren't enough hours in the day to restore every machine that comes through our doors.

Rather than allow this exceptional original survivor to sit in storage indefinitely, we've decided to offer it to a collector or enthusiast who can give it the attention it deserves.

This is an opportunity to acquire an exceptionally complete, original TM400 directly from one of the country's best-known vintage motorcycle dealerships.

A LEGENDARY PIECE OF MOTOCROSS HISTORY!

The Suzuki TM400 occupies a fascinating place in motorcycle history.

Introduced during the explosive growth of motocross in America, Suzuki's big-bore two-stroke was intended to put serious power into the hands of privateer racers and weekend enthusiasts.

Its powerful engine, abrupt throttle response, and challenging chassis characteristics quickly earned it the unforgettable nickname “Widowmaker.”

The TM400 wasn't a motorcycle for the faint of heart.

It was loud, fast, intimidating, and demanded respect.

Today, those same qualities have helped turn the TM400 into one of the most recognizable machines of the early Japanese motocross era.

For collectors of classic Suzuki motorcycles, vintage two-strokes, and 1970s motocross history, the TM400 is a machine that needs no introduction.

CONDITION SUMMARY

Year: 1973
Make: Suzuki
Model: TM400 Cyclone
Engine: 400cc-class air-cooled, single-cylinder two-stroke
Transmission: Manual, 5-speed
Condition: Original, unrestored restoration project
Ownership History: Purchased directly from the original owner
Originality: Exceptionally complete, with rear tire identified as a replacement
Fuel Tank: Original factory paint and graphics, one small ding
Exhaust: Original factory expansion chamber with minor dents
Seat: Original factory cover
Tires: Original front tire; replacement rear tire
Engine: Turns over, not seized
Mechanical Needs: Damaged lower engine case requires replacement or professional repair; additional recommissioning required
Running Condition: Not currently running
Sale Condition: Sold AS-IS

AN EXCEPTIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR THE VINTAGE SUZUKI COLLECTOR!

You can restore a motorcycle, repaint a tank, rechrome parts, and rebuild an engine.

But you cannot recreate more than 50 years of genuine originality.

The original grips, factory-painted fenders, number plates, seat cover, exhaust, fuel tank, and other surviving components tell the story of a motorcycle that has remained remarkably intact since the early 1970s.

Whether your goal is a complete factory-correct restoration, a mechanically restored original survivor, or a centerpiece for a vintage motocross collection, this TM400 offers a tremendous starting point.

These legendary two-strokes are only getting harder to find in this condition.

Don't miss your opportunity to own one of Suzuki's most infamous motocross machines — the legendary TM400 Widowmaker!

For additional information, please contact:

KAPLAN CYCLES / NEW ENGLAND MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM
Rockville, Connecticut
Phone: 860-454-7024
Website: www.KaplanCycles.com

Please review all photographs and videos carefully and contact us with any questions before bidding.

This motorcycle is being sold as an unrestored, non-running vintage project in its present AS-IS condition. No representation is made that it is ready to ride. All necessary repairs, inspections, servicing, and transportation are the responsibility of the buyer.

Own a genuine piece of American motocross history.

God Bless America!

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WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?

“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.

With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.

With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country

You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.

You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.

We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.

You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.

Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.

Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.

You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset

You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.

From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.

Sincerely,

Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”

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AUCTION TERMS:

All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.

Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.

A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.

Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.

Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.

Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close. 

Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.

If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.

We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.

You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.

If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.

It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.

Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)

We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday

For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192

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We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV. 

We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.

In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.

In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.

Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.

Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.

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Warranty:

All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.

SHIPPING:

SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!

We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.

International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.

We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.

PICKUP:

We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.

We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.