Description
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Bimota’s BB1 Supermono first appeared at the 1994 Cologne Motor Show and was the boutique brand’s first-ever model powered by a single-cylinder engine. The BB1 (or Bimota BMW 1) was also the Rimini firm’s first model to feature a powertrain from a BMW, though the liquid-cooled, 652cc, four-stroke single in the BB1 was actually produced by Austrian-outfit, Rotax.
Originally utilized by the Bavarian brand’s F650 “Funduro”, the big thumper was paired with a 33mm Mikuni BST carb and a custom GP-inspired exhaust system terminating in a pair of underseat mufflers. The BB1 put down 48hp at 6,500 rpm and 42.7 ft-lbs of torque at 6,000 rpm, which was enough to propel the sub-400 lb model to a top speed of around 100 mph.
In total, only 524 BB1 units were built across its entire production run from ’95 through ’97; 376 regular Supermonos; and 148 BB1 Bipostos (like this example). Though the BB1 originally sold for €8,780 ($6,585) — the Biposto went for €11,026 ($8,270) – Bimota offered a supplementary race kit to unlock the super-single’s full potential, made up of upgraded fuel-injection, race-grade suspension, track bodywork, and magnesium rims, just to name a few.
A big part of what made the Supermono so noteworthy was its top-shelf running gear and advanced chassis design. The single was constructed around an oval-section aluminum alloy tube frame and swing-arm — both of which were derived from the firm’s Mantra model — married to a 43mm Paioli fork and rear shock. The bike also got forged Marchesini rims and a single 320mm disc and four-pot Brembo caliper, though a second front disc was offered as a factory add-on.
The BB1 was dressed in unmistakably ‘90s Italian bodywork. The model’s fuel-cell was actually housed in the belly-pan under the Rotax mill, resulting in a very low center of gravity. A faux tank cover up top actually sports a nifty little glove compartment. Other trick little accouterments included carbon fiber fenders and instrument housing, and front turn signals integrated into the back of the mirrors — a feature that would take another decade before it became a staple on sport bikes.
In Giorgio Sarti’s book, Bimota, 25 Years of Excellence (Giorgio Nada Editori, 1999), he explains that the Supermono was well-received in Germany and Japan, though the rest of the global market showed little enthusiasm for the BB1 upon its release. This, compounded with the relatively minute number of units produced, makes BB1 specimens incredibly rare today, especially on American shores.
This example is VIN: ZESBB1000TR000032.
The odometer shows 1 mile.
This is one of over thirty motorcycles that we have been auctioning off from the Alan Wilzig collection over the next couple of weeks. Alan purchased it new from Red Baron, the Japanese Bimota distributor. Alan has had this on display its entire life – it has never had fuel in it since being sold new.
Modifications:
This Bimota appears to be completely stock. It comes with the factory seat cowl, which is currently installed.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on the original Michelin Hi-Sport tires.
The sale includes two keys, the original tool kit, two hex keys for the seat cowl, and an extra lock.
There is also an original leather key fob, however it has moisture damage.
Cosmetic Blemishes:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Bimota is offered on a clean Oregon title. Please note that as an import, this bike lacks certain compliance and emissions stickers that the state of California would require to transfer a title. Have any BB1 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
