Description
This motorcycle is Lot 330 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 Sunday 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 330
c. 1948 Moto Morini 125cc
Registration no. XBV 437
Frame no. S-2557
Engine no. S-2257
Before the arrival of its family of 72-degree v-twin roadsters in 1973, Morini's reputation had rested mainly on its highly successful double-overhead-cam single-cylinder racers that came within a whisker of snatching the 1963 250cc World Championship from Honda. Founder Alfonso Morini split from MM in 1937, setting up a foundry in Bologna. Post-WW2 he returned to motorcycle manufacture, commencing with a 125cc two-stroke that was followed by a range of fast overhead-camshaft roadsters. These were replaced during the 1960s by a range of overhead-valve models and a 48cc two-stroke, which kept the firm afloat until the arrival of the v-twins. The company was active in racing right from the start and won the Italian national 125cc championship in 1949. Based on the ubiquitous DKW RT125, the quarter-litre stroker appeared first as a roadster and then in tuned form as the Sport Competizione, which provided many of Italy's future road-racing stars with an entry into the sport.
This charming Moto Morini was purchased by the current vendor at the Bonhams Autumn Stafford sale in 2015 (Lot 163), since when it has been registered in the UK and used at rallies and occasional road use. Although not started for a couple of years, careful recommissioning will be required before returning this delightful Morini back to the road. Offered with a V5C.
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.
