Marusho, produced in Japan from 1948 to 1967, was a motorcycle manufacturer founded by Masashi Itō, a former engineer of Nakajima Aircraft. The company became known for its high-quality four-stroke motorcycles sold under the Lilac name, including models such as the LS18, CF40, ST, and Magnum series. Inspired by contemporary European designs, many Marusho motorcycles featured advanced engineering, shaft drive systems, and horizontally opposed twin-cylinder engines. Characterized by premium construction, technical sophistication, and distinctive styling, Marusho was one of Japan’s most ambitious early motorcycle manufacturers before ceasing operations in 1967.