Curious Case of the 1970 Cushman Trackster
Ah, the 1970 Cushman Trackster – a vehicle that’s as much a time machine as it is an ATV. Plucked from obscurity, it was rediscovered in a dusty storage, circa 2000, by the current owner. Since then, it’s been more museum artifact than mud-splattered marvel. Allegedly untouched by human hands, this beast boasts a hefty 437cc two-stroke engine mated to dual hydrostatic transmissions.
Technical Tidbits
- Rubber drive tracks to conquer various terrains
- Torsilastic suspension for smoother rides
- Surprisingly chic green vinyl upholstery
- Equipped with a clear windscreen, a headlight, and a taillight
If you’re itching to take this beauty for a spin, let me tell you, it’s being offered by its current guardian in North Carolina. Perfect for off-road escapades, it’s bundled with all the bells and whistles you need – a cover and a caster-wheel dolly – not to mention a bill of sale. But remember, this isn’t your average commute warrior. It’s strictly for wild, off-the-beaten-path use.
The Legal Drama
Cushman, the grand old harbinger of quirky vehicles, found itself under the corporate umbrella of Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC) back in 1962.
This Trackster, a relic of its time, became quite the courtroom celebrity in the mid-1970s. Plaintiffs argued that Cushman had waxed a bit too poetic about the Trackster’s prowess. Rumor has it, this particular example played its part in the court, being hustled between courtrooms on its dolly, posing as a pivotal piece of evidence.
Design Deluxe
Molded in striking lime green fiberglass, this ATV is a visual treat. With additional features like tubular steel bumpers and a clear windscreen, it’s definitely made to turn heads. And remember, it’s got both a headlight and a taillight, as if to whisper “I’m ready, day or night!”
Mechanics and Moxie
Built for the rugged outdoors, this ATV rolls on two rubber drive tracks. Each bogie wheel set rests on a robust setup of torsilastic mounts, steel springs, and shear mounts. It’s engineering poetry in motion, really.
Interior Intrigue
Inside, the aesthetics are consistent with its period – think patterned green vinyl on the bench and rear cushions. The controls are no less intriguing, with a T-bar lever poised on a black dash, alongside a keyed ignition and controls for the choke, throttle, primer, and reverse lockout. Just note, there’s no odometer in sight, so this machine’s past adventures remain shrouded in mystery.
The Trackster’s power heart, a 437cc two-stroke opposed-twin engine, is capable of both electric and pull starts. Yet, it’s been silently asleep since its emergence from storage, with a few whispers of corrosion lingering on its bones.
The Road (or Lack Thereof)
Power the kind you dream of churns through those dual Sundstrand hydrostatic transmissions. However, do not daydream about getting this beauty registered for a road trip. It’s got no title, so it’s strictly sold with a bill of sale, waiting for an owner who relishes adventure off the asphalt.
So here it is, the classic 1970 Cushman Trackster – a chapter out of history, looking for a new home to craft the tales of tomorrow. Its enigmatic aura and rugged readiness make it nothing short of a legend, eager to conquer wherever the path may lead.