Valmobile folding scooters were made in Japan during the 1950’s and 60’s. They were often referred to as Suitcase Scooters because they folded down into something that looked very much like a suitcase.
This interesting little motor scooter weighed 75 pounds and measured 27.5 x 14 x 24.5 inches for storage in a “boat, plane, car, closet or basement” and could be unfolded and ready to ride in “30 seconds” according to their advertisements.
The engine was a 49cc 2-stroke that had a kick starter, automatic transmission (centrifugal clutch type), and was advertised to get up to 165 miles per gallon fuel economy and to go up to 35 miles per hour. This is pretty similar to many scooters and mopeds today, but this one seems much more fun to have!
While this scooter did not have any front suspension, it did have a simple type of rear suspension. The Neimen ring rubber-band style rear suspension was advertised as giving a “limousine” ride quality. Now that’s one wild claim. I’ve got to believe that even in the 1950’s, limousines had a ride quality much better than riding a motorized suitcase! A rear drum brake did the stopping.
Valmobile scooters were distributed in North America through OCCO Specialites, Inc. in Hackensack, New Jersey. They were actually sold world-wide through other distribution channels and got a fair amount of publicity back then, even though the idea of a folding scooter was not entirely new.
Manufacturing of the Valmobile scooter was done in Japan, but the design was French and is said to be adapted from portable motor scooters that were used during the 1940’s for military purposes.
Today, a Valmobile scooter can sell for about $1000-$3000 dollars depending on the condition of it. A professionally restored Valmobile may sell for much more. One resource for parts and information is at Valmobile.com, but it seems they have not updated their inventory listings since 2005. Occasionally you can find one of these scooters on eBay. Not quite as popular as an old Harley-Davidson scooter or a Cushman scooter, a real Valmobile is still a gem to find.
Visit Motorcycle Information again for more fun and interesting articles as we look back at more unusual motorcycles and motor scooters. If you know of any good sources for Valmobile scooter parts, or if you have owned or currently own a Valmobile, please share your comments about it below.
