Lilac's transverse V-twin engine came five years before that of Italy's Moto Guzzi.
1959 Lilac Pictures
The 1959 Lilac was not known for high style, but did feature skirted fenders and a plush seat, and its engineering was very up-to-date.
The speedometer and warning lights were incorporated into the headlight bucket.
Featureless engine cases were short on character, but the technology within was clever and advanced.
Shaft drive was a rare feature in 1959; BMW was the only other major motorcycle maker with it at the time.
