Description
This motorcycle is to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online January Sale, with public viewing available Wednesday 21st February, from Bonhams Motorcycles in Milton Keynes. The timed online auction runs between February 16th through February 26th, with lots closing from midday February 26th.
Lot 135
1977 Moto Morini 344cc '3½' Strada
Registration no. STV 441R (see text)
Frame no. A/ 3 10118
Engine no. unable to locate
"Just forget that the Morini Strada is 'only' a 350. It gives you more than many 750s." – Bike magazine.
Before the arrival of its family of 72-degree v-twin roadsters, Morini's reputation had rested mainly on its highly successful double-overhead-cam single-cylinder racers. Engine designer Franco Lambertini adopted an entirely different approach for the v-twins: each cylinder's two valves were pushrod-operated by a belt-driven single camshaft while the combustion chambers were located, not in the flat-faced cylinder heads, but in the piston crowns. Coupled to a six-speed gearbox, this superb motor's performance belied its lack of capacity, endowing the lightweight, nimble-footed Morini with a top speed of around 100mph. Sport and Strada (touring) versions were made, early models having drum brakes and wire wheels, later ones a front disc brake, and the final examples alloy wheels.
Purchased by the current owner in November 2005, this Moto Morini has been dry stored since acquisition; recommissioning will be required before the machine returns to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed (the engine turns over). Nothing is known of the Morini's history other than the fact that the previous recorded keeper was a Mr John Jones of Penrith. The odometer reading is 47, 156 miles. Although this motorcycle carries the registration 'PTV 441R', the frame number recorded in the V5C does not match that on the machine itself and thus the latter is offered unregistered and without documents.
Offered without key
GBP1, 600 - 2, 200
To be sold without reserve
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 Bonhams Motorcycles for all pertinent auction information.
