Mr. Narazo Shimazu attempted to develop several innovative engines, and eventually produced two-stroke motorcycles before making the ‘Aero First’ series, powered by the four-cycle engine. As the father of the first domestic motorcycle, he made a distinguished contribution in building the foundation of our automotive industry. In recognition of these great achievements, the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame is honored to induct Mr. Narazo Shimazu into the Hall of Fame.

Shimazu pictured on a bicycle when he was 12 years old.

Shimazu built Japan’s first motorcycle at the age of 21. It entered production three years later.

An award-winning aero-engine built by Shimazu when he was in his late-20s.

Soon after building the aero-engine, Shimazu opened a driving school in Osaka at29 years of age.

Shimazu (30) with a three-wheeler he called Pioneer-Go.

The original Aero First in front of Shimazu’s house.

Aero First models that took part in a run from Kagoshima to Tokyo. Shimazu, his brothers and friends took the ride also.