Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 24th March from 1pm
Auction: Wed 25th March from 9am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
1972 Motobi Catria 175cc Sport
Beautifully restored
Estimate
£3, 000 - £4, 000
Registration No: FHH 633K
Frame No: 470849
MOT: Exempt
One owner since British registration in 2016
Restored over five years in the present ownership
Winner of several shows following its completion
Supplied with a current V5c and a selecetion of files
After disagreements with his brothers, Giuseppe Benelli started building his own machines in Pesaro under the Moto B name in 1951, changing it to Motobi in 1956. They were best-known for their unusual egg-shaped engines, the performance versions being nicknamed “power eggs” by the Italians. One of the most popular models was the 173cc Catria four-stroke, overhead-valve single, which tuner Primo Zanzani developed into a factory road-racer. Said to achieve 75mph with a four-speed gearbox, it proved a popular machine for road races and hill-climbs across Italy. The original Benelli firm acquired Motobi in 1962, but discontinued it in 1976.
This very rare and beautiful 1972 Catria 175cc Sport was first registered for British roads in 2016, following its acquisition by the present collector owner. It was bought as a project, and in that time has benefited from a very sympathetic restoration which has also seen the installation of an original Motobi race engine from 1960 with a close ratio gearbox. The work was completed over the course of five years, since when the Motobi has been enjoyed for some 1, 600 miles on the road, and has picked up several accolades at shows. The vendor describes it as a very quick machine which easily spins its back wheel, and it is supplied with the V5C and some spares and tools.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
