Originally designed in 1938 but shelved due to the Second World War, the Gilera Saturno was unveiled in 1946 and went through a number of minor upgrades and evolutions between ’46 and ’58, being produced in both Tourismo and Sport versions, with the latter being seen here.
Featuring a tubular frame (from ’52 onwards) Abarth exhaust, telescopic front forks and other innovative features for its era, the Saturno Sport was one of the highlights of the ‘golden age’ of Italian motorcycle production.
This particular example is from 1954, making it a tubular-frame model, but prior to the introduction of magneto ignition/electronic spark advance. Purchased by the vendor in 2021, the bike has been garaged ever since and barely ridden, making this a fantastic opportunity to obtain a Gilera that may need only the slightest fettling before seeing the open road again in summer. SODTpcUJ7NaJYB4y4f8h6XXBlWx5nO4FXMDm1O2f.jpg1.33 MB
History/Paperwork
V5 registered keepers document, showing just one former keeper in the UK
New tyres fitted in current ownership
Purchased in 2021 and garaged by the current owner but barely run or ridden since - a quick once-over is advised before the bike sees the open road again
The seat is in excellent shape, with no rips, tears or damage visible, as is the secondary padded seat/cushion on the rear arch
The vendor notes that the handlebars are bent ever so slightly on the left-hand-side, but this is barely discernible and does not affect the way the bike rides
The left-hand grip has a tendency to slide off of the bars
Up ahead, the headlamp key is present, but the key for the side lock box is missing
Light signs of wear around the engine casing, cooling fins and typical heat staining to the exhaust upper regions
The vendor states that the bike runs ‘fantastically’ but due to having sat for an extended period unused in his garage, it would be best for the next owner to give this Gilera a ‘once over’ before it sees any real use again.
Classic Italian styling, a pre-war design and history and one of only ~400 made during 1954, this is a fantastic example of the desirable Gilera Saturno Sport 500 that would make a wonderful addition to any bike collection. A quick fettle and tune-up and you’ll be riding off into the sunset before you know it…
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.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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