Benelli is Italy’s oldest surviving motorcycle manufacturer, founded in 1911 by the six Benelli brothers of Pesaro, Although better known for their multi-cylinder machines, including pre-war supercharged fare and racing successes, they have always produced less exotic machines, such as the Leoncino two-stroke lightweight… which won its class in the 1953 Moto Giro d’Italia! Also produced as a 4-stroke, the capable little machine was available in Normale, Sport and Corsa/Race specification, the later of which at only 190lbs, made a great basis for racing.
This staggeringly beautiful 1955 Benelli 125cc Leoncino, or “Little Lion,” comes to us from the MotoTalbott Museum in Carmel, California. For some time it has taken pride of place in the museum, and has now been re-commissioned to ready it for sale, but further fettling may be necessary before returning it to regular race-weapon status.
Engine no. 338
Location: Ventura, California
SOLD
