Description
Additional photos of this Derbi GPR 50R Youichi Ui Replica are available here for your perusal.
Derbi’s origins began with a little bicycle workshop in the village of Mollet near Barcelona, founded in 1922 by Simeó Rabasa i Singla. The focus remained the repair and hire of bicycles until May 1944 when Rabasa formed a limited liability company named Bicycletas Rabasa with the aim of moving into manufacturing bicycles. The venture proved very successful and in 1946, supported by its profits, work began on a motorized version. They quickly got into racing and were quite successful in small displacement Grands Prix, winning 50cc world championships in 1969, 1970 and 1972. When the 50cc class was increased to an 80cc displacement in 1984, Derbi would claim four consecutive world championships between 1986 and 1989.
Derbi’s expertise with small displacement racing translated into their similarly-sized production bikes, such as the GPR (Grand Prix Replica). The second generation of the GPR shared its bones with the Cagiva Prima 50, which in turn shared styling features with the Mito and its 916-inspired tail section.
This generation featured AJP brakes, Showa USD forks, Domino switchgear, and adjustable mirrors.
Derbi would go on to create multiple replicas of the liveries used by their GP riders, such as Youichi Ui #41. Ui raced a 125cc Derbi for four seasons, starting in 1999. He placed second in the World Championships in 2000 and 2001, and Derbi commemorated his success with a dedicated paint job.
This example (VIN: VTHGPRRB62M180681) is #1597 of the Ui replicas – it is one of several bikes from a collection sourced in South Africa. We believe (but cannot confirm) that is a 2000 or 2001 model – thanks to JeniusBiker in the comments!
The odometer shows 2,711 kilometers (1,684 miles).
In preparation for the listing, we cleaned the carb and installed a new battery.
The exhaust shows some damage and appears to have been welded.
The front left turn signal mount has broken and is currently secured with tape.
The tire sidewalls are cracking.
Cosmetic Blemishes:
scratches on front right red plastic
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Derbi is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any GPR 50R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the comments!
