Showa Corporation

Showa Corporation (株式会社ショーワ, Kabushiki-kaisha Shōwa^?) (: ) is a manufacturer of high-performance automotive, motorcycle and outboard suspension systems based in Gyoda, Saitama in Japan.

The company was founded in 1938 as Showa Aircraft Precision Works. In Japan's drive to develop its military capability in preparation for World War II, Showa supplied aircraft suspension and landing systems to various aircraft manufacturers. Banned from developing or manufacturing aircraft systems after the war, Showa entered the car components industry, using its aircraft knowledge to develop specialist suspension products for motorcycles made by the new company Honda. The relationship between Showa and Honda developed over the years, with Honda Racing Corporation accounting for more than 50% of Showa's business.

In 1950 Showa acquired Rikuo Motorcycle, which made licensed versions of Harley Davidson motorcycles in the 1930s and 1940s. Rikuo brand lasted until 1962. Showa has since become OEM supplier to Harley Davidson.

Showa has overseas facilities in United States, Canada, Brazil, Spain, Wales, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, India, China, Vietnam and soon to open a facility in Mexico expected in mid 2015.

Showa was an official IndyCar Series damper, springs and suspension supplier from 2007 to 2011.

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