c.1956 Moto Parilla 175 DOHC Works Racer
No Reserve - Unrestored racer, believed to be a unique prototype

Registration No: Un-Registered
Frame No: 500504
MOT: Exempt

• Exceptionally well-preserved, unrestored racing bike
• Though to be a one-off works prototype, possibly for the 1956 Milan-Taranto
• Reputedly in single-family, ex-works ownership until 2000

• The Road and Race Collection

Giovanni Parrilla burst created a stir in 1946 when his first motorcycle, a 248cc OHC model, appeared, and his 1947 racing model really drew attention. Going into the 1950s, the delicately-engineered Parillas (Giovanni dropped an “R” from his surname) could often be seen at major Italian race meetings, menacing some of the larger manufacturers.

This remarkable machine clearly has an interesting past, though it’s a little mired in mystery. It’s understood that Giovanni Parrilla built two DOHC prototypes in 1956, a 125cc and a 175cc, possibly for the Milan-Taranto race. Based on the available evidence, this is believed to be the 175. It has no engine number—commensurate with a prototype—but “175” is clearly stamped on the crankcase, whereas other components have “125” stamped. It is thought to consist of the 125’s castings, bored-out to 175cc. In 2000, it was purchased by Steve Griffiths of Racing & Investment Motorcycles at a bike rally in Italy, from a family which had apparently acquired it from the works. He sold it in 2001 to collector Robert White, from whom it passed to our vendor, another collector, in 2016. Bidders should be aware that it will require recommissioning and import duties may be payable. This remarkable unrestored machine offers scope for further historical research.

For more information, please contact:
Mike Davis
mike.davis@handh.co.uk
07718 584217