** NOTE: This auction has now been extended **
Highlights
- Less than 300 original miles
- Excellent history
- A true ‘time warp’ barn find bike
The Appeal
Gilera’s answer to the small, sixteen-and-over motorcycle boom in the 1970s and 80s, the ’50’ (named due to its 50cc capacity engine, which was actually 48cc to be pedantic) proved to be an absolute hit, and was available in both on and off-road styles, the latter of the two being the ‘trials’ as seen here.
This example has less than 300 miles on the clock, a fantastic ownership story and is a true ‘barn find’ requiring some light recommission. That said, the engine turns over happily and reportedly with good compression, meaning this should prove to be the ideal winter project, just in time to enjoy the wind in your hair when spring comes around.
History/Paperwork
- Purchased by the vendor from the original owner in March 2022
- Previous owner bought the bike new, rode for 237 miles, fell off and then never rode again
- A new fuel tank was fitted following the aforementioned fall, and then the bike locked away in a garage
- Padding added to the handlebars for comfort/safety
- Supplied new by Masons Motorcycles of Haverfordwest
- Original manual, brochure, dealer wallet, V5, Gilera guarantee, log book, handbook and insurance document all present
- Original tool kit included
- V5 registered keepers document, showing two former keepers
- The vendor states that the V5 is incorrect, since he is, in fact, the second keeper and purchased the bike from its original owner.
- The vendor notes that the steering lock key is missing, though the bike is unlocked and the key number is written in the logbook
The Interior
- Seat is in original condition with no heavy wear or damage
- Padding added to handlebars by previous keeper
- Some pitting and light patina visible on the bars, rear rack, etc
The Exterior
- Finished in blue - exceedingly rare as most bikes were red
- Genuine ‘barn find’ with associated patina and wear to paintwork. The vendor states he has never attempted to clean up the bike, in order to preserve its condition
- Limited mileage means the bike remains in good condition overall
- Pitting, patina and light corrosion visible to chrome details, pegs and forks
- Paintwork generally in excellent condition throughout, with only a few small chips visible
- The various graphics are stated to be all original, and look to be very crisp indeed
- Corrosion visible to the inner barrels of the wheels, at the rear in particular
- Original Pirelli tyres still fitted to the bike
The Mechanicals
- 48cc engine
- The vendor states he has never ran the engine, but “it turns over easily and with good compression.”
- The brakes appear to work correctly, and the bike goes into gear
- Servicing and light recommissioning would be required if the next owner wishes to use the bike properly
- According to the vendor, there is no discernible play in the wheel bearings.
Summary
A genuine barn-find bike, with less than 300 miles on the clock (so, by definition, still being run-in according to the Gilera handbook) in wonderfully original condition and offering one lucky bidder the chance to either relive their youth, or obtain the bike they always dreamed of riding around on as a teenager.
A wonderful trip down memory lane, and no doubt an olfactory overload once up-and-running once again. An almost unrepeatable opportunity, perhaps
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.
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