Highlights

A rare example prepared for racing in the early 1970s
Recently tuned by a well-known collector in Rome
Original Menani fibreglass tank and seat assembly of the period
Registered with original period number plate 'ROMA 32886'.
The engine and other components have been overhauled retaining the authentic period patina

The Attractions

In the 1960s, the so-called 'British Invasion' was creating a lot of headaches for motorbike manufacturers, and many European companies developed models that they hoped would be able to establish themselves in the all-important American market. It was the era of the big two-cylinder, and Benelli did not want to remain on the sidelines. However until then it had almost exclusively built small displacement motorbikes, and this was a market it had never ventured into.

Unfortunately, also due to the vicissitudes of Benelli, production of the bike, which had been presented in prototype form at the 1967 Milan Motorcycle Show, proved to be very troubled. Steve McQueen, the company's ambassador to the United States, acted as a consultant for the model's development, but available capital was scarce - and the bike only finally reached the market in 1970.

But in the meantime the Japanese manufacturers had revolutionised the market with their first Superbikes, and the Tornado was sold in only 3,000 units, almost half of which were on the Italian market. Today they are two rare and unusual wheels, with great retro charm and still very capable on the track.

This splendid example was prepared for competition and boasts a glorious history. This Tornado with chassis no. 6702 was destined for production motorbike racing in the 1970s and then remained in storage for around forty years. The seller has carried out a thorough restoration of the engine and refurbished it: it is now ready to go. A great opportunity!

History and Documentation

Registered in 1972
Prepared for racing from new
Kept in storage for around 40 years
Registered with original number plate 'ROMA 32886' of the time
Put back on the road by a well-known collector in Rome

Condition

The chassis is straight and solid
Bright and very attractive paintwork
Original period Menani fibreglass tank/seat assembly
Restored Marzocchi Gas front fork and rear shocks
New Dunlop K81 tyres
New battery

Mechanics

643 cc air-cooled parallel twin-cylinder engine
5-speed gearbox
Engine stripped down and fitted with new bushings, pistons and rings
Rebuilt cylinder heads with new valves and guides
New clutch
Brakes overhauled and tuned
The seller informed us that the engine is very powerful and that the exhaust has an exceptional tone
No mechanical problems were reported to us

BEFORE BUYING

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✓Theseller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights under EU consumer protection legislation do not apply. You will be protected in any case by the Terms and Conditions of Car & Classic.

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