1948 Gilera 499cc Saturno Sport

Registration no. VXS 639 Frame no. 264318 Engine no. 268613

• Iconic Italian model
• Restored in 2016
• Upgraded front brake

Gilera's best-known and most successful large-capacity roadster of the post-WW2 period was the Saturno. First seen in 1940 in competition guise, this 499cc, overhead-valve, four-stroke single did not enter production until 1946 when it appeared with the horizontally-sprung, friction-damped, swinging-arm rear suspension first seen on the pre-war blown 'four' racer. Major changes to the Turismo and Sport roadsters were mainly confined to the cycle parts, which were updated with a telescopic front fork and full-width alloy front brake for 1952, and conventional coil-spring dampers at the rear soon after. Production of the Saturno continued until 1959, its passing marking the end of the line for one of Italy's truly great classic motorcycles. The private vendor advises us that this Saturno Sport was restored in 2016. Works carried out include replacing or refurbishing all engine parts with the exception of the cylinder (which was in very good condition); stripping and powder coating the frame; renewing the front and rear suspension; totally rebuilding the wheels with new Spanish alloy rims and stainless spokes; and overhauling the dynamo and magneto. In addition, the machine was upgraded with a double-sided four-leading-shoe front brake and a Smiths electronic speedometer. Described by the vendor as in excellent condition, this beautiful Italian thoroughbred is offered with a dating certificate and a V5C document. The original front wheel (refurbished) and a silencer are included in the sale.