** NOTE: This auction has now been extended **

Highlights

Less than 300 original miles
Excellent history
A true ‘time warp’ barn find bike

The Appeal

Gilera’s answer to the small, sixteen-and-over motorcycle boom in the 1970s and 80s, the ’50’ (named due to its 50cc capacity engine, which was actually 48cc to be pedantic) proved to be an absolute hit, and was available in both on and off-road styles, the latter of the two being the ‘trials’ as seen here.

This example has less than 300 miles on the clock, a fantastic ownership story and is a true ‘barn find’ requiring some light recommission. That said, the engine turns over happily and reportedly with good compression, meaning this should prove to be the ideal winter project, just in time to enjoy the wind in your hair when spring comes around.

History/Paperwork

Purchased by the vendor from the original owner in March 2022
Previous owner bought the bike new, rode for 237 miles, fell off and then never rode again
A new fuel tank was fitted following the aforementioned fall, and then the bike locked away in a garage
Padding added to the handlebars for comfort/safety
Supplied new by Masons Motorcycles of Haverfordwest
Original manual, brochure, dealer wallet, V5, Gilera guarantee, log book, handbook and insurance document all present
Original tool kit included
V5 registered keepers document, showing two former keepers
The vendor states that the V5 is incorrect, since he is, in fact, the second keeper and purchased the bike from its original owner.
The vendor notes that the steering lock key is missing, though the bike is unlocked and the key number is written in the logbook

The Interior

Seat is in original condition with no heavy wear or damage
Padding added to handlebars by previous keeper
Some pitting and light patina visible on the bars, rear rack, etc

The Exterior

Finished in blue - exceedingly rare as most bikes were red
Genuine ‘barn find’ with associated patina and wear to paintwork. The vendor states he has never attempted to clean up the bike, in order to preserve its condition
Limited mileage means the bike remains in good condition overall
Pitting, patina and light corrosion visible to chrome details, pegs and forks
Paintwork generally in excellent condition throughout, with only a few small chips visible
The various graphics are stated to be all original, and look to be very crisp indeed
Corrosion visible to the inner barrels of the wheels, at the rear in particular
Original Pirelli tyres still fitted to the bike

The Mechanicals

48cc engine
The vendor states he has never ran the engine, but “it turns over easily and with good compression.”
The brakes appear to work correctly, and the bike goes into gear
Servicing and light recommissioning would be required if the next owner wishes to use the bike properly
According to the vendor, there is no discernible play in the wheel bearings.

Summary

A genuine barn-find bike, with less than 300 miles on the clock (so, by definition, still being run-in according to the Gilera handbook) in wonderfully original condition and offering one lucky bidder the chance to either relive their youth, or obtain the bike they always dreamed of riding around on as a teenager.

A wonderful trip down memory lane, and no doubt an olfactory overload once up-and-running once again. An almost unrepeatable opportunity, perhaps

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.

A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.

All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.