The Saturno was bought by the vendor in 1990 out of a Gilera collection. In 1993 the engine was overhauled and all bearings replaced. The chance of purchasing a works Gilera Piuma frame, suspension parts, brakes and wheels in 1994 from an ex-works mechanic in Arcore/ It led to the decision of converting the bike to full Piuma specification. In 1995 the valve gear was converted, in the interest of reduced wear, to roller rockers, resulting in lower wear and easier maintenance. In 1996, Angelo Lotti from Modena supplied the large cylinder and head, the valve gear and crankshaft drive components from the Piuma racing engine. Well known Gilera tuner Willi Rüfenacht then took care of the engine conversion and with the help of a special camshaft achieved an impressive power output of 40 hp. To make sure that the power reliably reached the rear wheel, a racing gearbox was installed. A fuel tank with an integrated rev-counter especially commissioned from Ruggero Libanore in Monza, was manufactured in aluminium following original Gilera drawings. Since its completion in 1999, the Gilera has been in reliable use at different historic events as well as being driven on the road, resulting in about 6’000 km covered since completion. This 500 Saturno presents itself in very good condition, on the button and will be handed over to the new owner with the last Veteran MOT completed in October 2016.
Asking price: CHF 25'000. 00