Kawasaki Tri-Magnum 1985: exotic Japanese power on three wheels

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At InterClassics Maastricht 2026, where Legends of the Rising Sun takes centre stage, the remarkable 1985 Kawasaki Tri-Magnum embodies a blend of Japanese refinement, American ingenuity and eccentric design.

This unusual machine, offered through Happy Old Iron, reflects the creative boldness and technical daring of the early 1980s — a period in which motorcycle manufacturers and enthusiasts consciously explored the boundaries of conventional vehicle categories. What makes the Tri-Magnum special is its character: neither a standard motorcycle nor a traditional sports car, but a three-wheeled “reverse trike” kit car that merges motorcycle and automotive elements. The concept was created by Robert Q. Riley, an American designer known for his innovative and often experimental vehicles. Introduced from 1981 onwards, the Tri-Magnum remained a niche phenomenon — an unconventional bridge between motorcycle and car.

The example presented at InterClassics was built in 1985 and is powered by the formidable heart of a Kawasaki Z1300 engine: a six-cylinder, 1300 cc inline unit producing around 130 hp, already renowned in its original motorcycle configuration for its power and refinement. In the Tri-Magnum, this performance is combined with a lightweight fibreglass three-wheeler body and a Volkswagen Beetle front axle, resulting in a raw yet playful driving experience.

The dynamics of a reverse trike — two wheels at the front, one at the rear — offer a distinctive feel: more stable in corners than traditional motorcycle layouts, yet far more direct than classic cars. Drivers praise the Tri-Magnum for its unique mix of power, eccentricity and rarity.

At InterClassics Maastricht, this Tri-Magnum fits perfectly within Legends of the Rising Sun: not a conventional classic, but an example of how Japanese engineering comes to life in unexpected forms. It is displayed on the PostWarClassic.com stand (N.746).

Details:

• Event: InterClassics Maastricht
• Theme: Legends of the Rising Sun
• Date: 15 – 18 January 2026
• Location: MECC Maastricht, The Netherlands
• Tickets: Click here

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