Description
The seller has also included the following walkaround video:
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Back in the 1960s, Montgomery Ward entered the motorcycle market in order order to capitalize on the two-wheeled trend. Accordingly, the American department store giant imported a number of motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters — from a variety of manufacturers like Benelli, Bianchi, Lambretta, and Motobecane — and sold them under the Riverside brand. Though the resulting bikes were generally on the smaller side, their displacement ranged from 49cc to 356cc, making up two-strokes and four-strokes alike.
One such model was the Wards Riverside 250. Produced in Italy by Benelli, it featured a 245cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Output was estimated to be around 20hp, which proved plenty of grunt for the bike’s svelte 231-pound curb weight. What’s more, Wards Riverside advertised an impressive 70mpg fuel economy.
Elsewhere, the bike boasted standard equipment like a set of telescopic forks, dual shocks, an 18-inch front wheel, a 17-inch rear wheel, as well as drum brakes front and rear. Because Riversides were available via mail-order, they shipped partially assembled with a corresponding tool kit. If you’d like to learn more, check out this reproduction advertisement!
This example is VIN: 13143, engine #: HS*12930*, model #: FFA-61-14017 D, serial #: 76. The seller acquired the bike as part of a collection, from a widow whose husband frequently restored vintage motorcycles.
During his onwership, the seller has covered approximately two miles. The odometer shows 3,750 miles.
Maintenance:
Per the seller, this Wards Riverside 250 received a full restoration under previous ownership.
Modifications:
The seller notes that this example is a “completely original bike.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on IRC tires with date codes of 1016 and 3416.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Vero Beach, Florida, this Wards Riverside is offered on a clean Florida title. Have any 250 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
