Description
This motorcycle is Lot 165 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on 12 & 13 October, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 176 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 12th October 2024.
Lots 201 - 429 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 13th October 2024.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th & 13th October 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 165
The Andy Chapman Collection
1977 Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans MK1
Registration no. WGF 382R
Frame no. VE* 12832*
Engine no. VE* 076410*
Hitherto an acquired taste enjoyed by a discerning minority, the big Moto Guzzi suddenly began capturing the imagination of a wider public when the 850cc Le Mans burst on the scene in 1976. Described by Bike magazine as "the sleekest, horniest thing you've ever seen on two wheels", the Le Mans looked like it was doing 100mph while stationary and on the open road delivered 130mph-plus performance. Without doubt one of the definitive superbikes of the 1970s and today highly collectible.
This Le Mans was purchased by the current vendor in 2018 and currently displays a total of 48, 688 miles on the odometer (at the time of cataloguing/ photography). Following a period of inactivity, the machine will require re-commissioning to a greater or lesser extent, or possibly more extensive restoration, before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. It should be noted that the starter motor is missing and that the carburettors require attention. The only documentation available is a V5C Registration Certificate. It should also be noted that this document omits the 'VE' frame/ engine number prefixes and the first '0' of the engine number.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
