Highlights

• A splendid restored Chimera 175
• One of only 119 examples with a 175 cc engine
• Completely faithful to original features and unmodified
• Rare original equipment including exhaust system and chrome luggage rack
• In perfect condition

The Attractions

The story of this fascinating motorbike began with a sketch by legendary designer and motorbike racer Count Mario Revelli. Alfredo Bianchi, Aermacchi's new designer, started from the idea of Revelli's 'perfect' motorbike and realised that dream, a splendid two-wheeler very appropriately christened the Chimera.

The futuristic design, influenced by the 'space' aesthetics that were all the rage at the time, fitted in perfectly with Aermacchi's history. In fact, the company had become famous by manufacturing fighter planes, before being transformed into a manufacturer of motorbikes and scooters after the Second World War, as envisaged by the Marshall Plan. Aermacchi's aeronautical skills therefore partly converged in the Chimera, resulting in an aerodynamic line that was both extremely elegant and technologically advanced. It was immediately appreciated by experts and enthusiasts, who admired its flowing lines and cutting-edge technological solutions.

It should have enjoyed good sales success, but in reality it did not achieve much. Only 296 were produced between 1956 and 1964, of which only 119 had a 175 cc engine like this one. This Chimera was restored about 10 years ago, faithfully replicating the factory specifications, including the correct blue and ivory colour scheme.

It is truly splendid. The Chimera is one of the rarest and most stylistically remarkable motorbikes of post-war Italy and this is certainly one of the best examples left. It is a precious collectors' item, a bike as beautiful and rewarding to admire as it is to ride.

History and Documentation

• First registered on 10 May 1958
• Original registration papers
• The seller informed us that it was restored 10 years ago
• Designed by Alfredo Bianchi for Aermacchi
• One of only 119 Chimera 175s produced
• Presented in the correct ivory and blue colour scheme
• Chassis number 100761

Conditions

• Restored in correct original light blue colouring with ivory detailing
• Very good overall condition with only a few slight imperfections
• Careful restoration that has preserved the original factory features
• Aluminium panels in good condition, no damage to report
• Chrome plating in good shape, with some slight oxidation marks on some original details
• Fitted with the rare original exhaust system as shown in the photos
• Retains correct badges and decals as shown in photos
• 17-inch front and rear wheels with chrome rims in good condition
• Ivory-coloured trim is well preserved and true to the original
• Equipped with the rare rear rack
• One-piece steel frame
• Lockable toolbox with carburettor access
• Handlebar and control cables protected by removable fairing
• Aerodynamic steel front fairing encloses headlight, ignition and speedometer
• Ivory saddle and tank side padding in good condition
• Original Aermacchi branded grips

Mechanics

• 172.4 cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine with 13 hp
• Lightweight power unit with aluminium cylinder head
• 4-speed manual gearbox
• Single shock rear suspension
• No operating or riding problems have been reported to us
• The seller informed us that it runs properly and rides very well
• The seller describes the mechanical condition as '10/10'

BEFORE BUYING