Please Note: This is part of the McCord Collection. Greg McCord has been an avid motorcyclist and collector for the last 25 years. Mr. McCord owns several motorcycle dealerships throughout the United States including 3 European dealerships in Northern California and a new flagship Triumph store opening soon on Santa Monica Blvd in Los Angeles, California.
This Mondial has been on display in one of Mr. McCord’s dealerships for the 11 years that he has owned it, he has never tried to start it and is selling it as-is. The engine does turn over when you utilize the kick start lever.
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Back in the late 1940s and early 1950s, a small Italian motorcycle manufacturer by the name of F.B. Mondial was a dominant force in Grand Prix racing. In eight years, its riders took home five World Championships, while the marque itself secured just as many manufacturer’s titles.
Expectedly, F.B. Mondial wanted to capitalize on its efforts. So, even though the competition was primarily focused on selling small, economical mopeds, it decided to sell race replicas to the public. What resulted was the 48 Sport, a lightweight 48cc two-stroke built around a single-cradle frame and fitted with a three-speed pedal-selected gearbox — a novel item considering that most bikes of this size tend to incorporate a handlebar twist-change.
Around the rest of the bike, you’ll find plenty of other competition-proven touches, including a set of low-slung clip-ons, a generous fuel tank, and a compact solo seat. As a tribute to its racing success, F.B. Mondial affixed a commemorative decal just behind the gas cap that denotes its World Championship wins. Because each model was built by hand, total production output was low — just 1,000 to 2,000 units a year.
This example is VIN: 3409. The seller acquired it at the RM Sotheby’s 2012 Las Vegas auction. It was represented in that auction as a 65cc Supersport but based on our research it is a 48. We are unable to confirm the year of production. Mr. McCord has kept it on display in one of his dealerships since.
The odometer shows 15 kilometers (9 miles).
Modifications:
It appears that this Mondial 48 Sport received a cosmetic refresh at some point in its lifetime.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Pirelli tires that have aged out.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this F.B. Mondial is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any 48 Sport stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
