Description
This car is Lot 77 to be auctioned by Bonhams|Cars at Les Grandes Marques du Monde à Paris Sale on 6 February, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Public Viewing:
Available Tuesday 4 February from 08:00 until 18:00 and Wednesday 5 February from 9 AM - 6 PM, at The Grand Palais Historique, Paris.
Lot 77
1957 Mondial 246cc Bialbero Racing Motorcycle
Registration no. unregistered
Chassis no.
In 1957, engineer Alfonso Drusiani designed an entirely new 246cc single and revamped Mondial's existing 125. The result was a magnificent return to former glory, Provini ending the season as 125cc World Champion while newly recruited Cecil Sandford took the 250 title, with victories at the Isle of Man TT and Ulster Grand Prix. Provini became Italian national champion in both classes. Sadly, what should have been the dawning of a new golden age for the Bologna marque was not to be as Mondial, together with Moto Guzzi and Gilera, withdrew from Grand Prix racing at the season's end; and although some (mainly two-stroke) racers were developed in the 1960s, they never achieved the same heights.
The vendor advises us that this machine incorporates the last crankcase made in 1957. The bike was refitted with the engine by Nerio Biavati, formerly chief mechanic at Mondial. The fairings were painted by Bonvicini in Modena.
As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
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|Cars website for all pertinent auction information.
