No Reserve – 1957 Motobi Catria Lusso 175

Description

Please note: The seller is managing the sale of this collection on behalf of the owner’s estate. He has represented each bike to the best of his ability and will be unable to provide further history or supporting documentation. The bike does not currently run and the seller cannot confirm mechanical condition. He has provided a walk around video and is selling the bike as-is. A local dealership will be providing the Bill of Sale; all fees (with the exception of Iconic’s buyer’s fee) and taxes will be accounted for by the dealer.

Additional photos are available here for your perusal.

During Italy’s 1950s etceterini of little-known marques, Motobi (or MotoBi) is an obscure off shoot caused by family drama in the ever-changing landscape of Italian motorcycling. In 1948, Giuseppe Benelli walk out of the family factory in Pesaro over a disagreement and founded FAMOSA which eventually became MotoBi.

The company quickly established itself in the red hot Italian bike market with it’s two-stroke B200 comprised of a pressed-steel frame and distinctive egg-shaped engine. In late 1955 the company’s first four-stroke model appear, the Catria, in 125cc and 175cc options. Soon after it’s release Giuseppe Benelli died and the company was absorbed back into the Benelli family creating Gruppo Benelli-Motobi in 1961.

This example is VIN: 451151; Engine: 451151.

The odometer shows 23,310 kilometers (14,484 miles), however the seller cannot confirm authenticity.

Maintenance:
The seller states, “Not running. The bike has been a display piece for many years and not in current running condition. Tank is clean with minor remnants of fuel left over but drained. Bad Battery. Motor turns over with compression.”

Modifications:
Per the seller, “It is unknown if there were any modifications that were performed by previous or current ownership.”

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Cheng Shin tires.

There is no key, ignition, or supporting documentation.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:

Currently located in Denver, Colorado, this Motobi is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any Catria Lusso stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!