1955 Maserati 160 Sport Special

Lot details
Registration No: Un-Reg
Frame No: T.B.A.
Engine No: T.B.A.
cc: 160
MOT Expiry Date: None

During the early 1950's the Orsi family, who controlled the Società Anonima Fabbrica Candele Accumulatori Maserati the parent company best known for the production of Maserati motor cars but also active in the automotive battery market, the production of spark plugs and other related activities, split the company between Adolfo, Marcello and Ida Orsi with them taking control of Maserati Automobili, Fonderie di Modena (the foundry) and Fabbrica Candele e Accumulatori Maserati respectively. The latter company, responding to the demands of a recovering Italian economy for economical transport entered the motorcycle market in 1954 with two 125cc two strokes and the 160cc Tipo L/160/T4 touring motorcycle, these were later joined by a range of 50cc machines, including the beautiful Tipo 50/T2/SS Super Sport and a three wheeled commercial, a 250cc four stroke single and a 75cc two stroke single. Motorcycle production ended in 1958 in response to a contracting motorcycle market and increased demand for the company's automotive products.

The pretty little Special offered is derived from a Mark 1 version of the 160cc Tipo L/160/T4 and has been built in the style of machines that competed in events such as the Giro d'Italia. It is equipped with a set of blade girder forks and a swinging arm frame. Full width alloy hubs are laced to alloy rims and a racing number plate, dropped bars and single seat are fitted. It is offered in excellent cosmetic condition.