Lot details
Registration No: Un-Reg
Frame No: 157N
cc: 175
MOT Expiry Date: Aug 2009

By the end of the 1950's Benelli's range of motorcycles was in need of revision. The 125 Leoncino, offered in both two stroke and four stroke form was facing increasing competition in its class, whilst the 250cc Leonessa fell into a higher tax class compared to the hot 175cc models from rival manufacturers that offered similar performance. These challenges together with a general decline in motorcycle sales necessitated the development of a new model capable of appealing to the broadest possible market.
In response to the changing marketplace, Benelli developed a new 175cc overhead valve single which was unveiled towards the end 1959. The new model, in it's Sport form delivered 12 bhp at 8,000rpm from its over square engine, only 4bhp less than the heavier Leonessa., and was complimented by a touring version delivering 2bhp less. Both models were equipped with a four speed gearbox built in unit with the engine a 60 watt generator and neat touches such as an oil level sight class. The Tourismo adopted a single silencer and normal handlebars to distinguish it from the Sport which featured a "stacked" double silencer, dropped bars and a "jelly mould" fuel tank.
This delightful example of the Tourismo variant has been restored to a high standard throughout. Attractively presented in red and black it is not currently registered in this country but is accompanied by an MoT certificate valid until August 2009.