1956 Capriolo 150cc Cento 50
Frame no. 00292 Engine no. 00249

The Summer Sale - LIVE AND ONLINE - BICESTER HERITAGE|16 August 2020, 10:00 BST|Bicester, Bicester Heritage

1956 Capriolo 150cc Cento 50
Frame no. 00292
Engine no. 00249

Named after the roe deer, Capriolo emerged from the ashes of the giant Caproni group, which had been founded in the first decade of the 20th Century as an aircraft manufacturer and only turned to motorcycle production after WW2. At the Milan Show in November 1953, Capriolo launched the Cento 50, one of the very few Italian motorcycles to be powered by a BMW-style flat-twin engine. The pressed-steel frame and face-cam valve gear were carryovers from the single-cylinder Cento 75, while other noteworthy features included flashing indicators integral with the taillight, and a neutral indicator light. Weighing 103kg (227lb) and with a maximum of 7.5bhp on tap, the Cento 50 had a top speed of 95km/h (59mph). It is estimated that only some 500-or-so were made. A later model identifiable as such by its full-width hubs, this ultra-rare Capriolo had been restored by a specialist prior to its acquisition by the Morbidelli Museum.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

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Additional information

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12 August 2020, 13:00 - 17:00 BST

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N	NOVA declaration
	If purchased by a UK resident, this machine is subject to a NOVA declaration, whilst the responsibility of submitting the NOVA rests with the Buyer to do so, Bonhams will facilitate the process by engaging an agent (SHIPPIO) to undertake the NOVA and C88 (customs) application if applicable on the Buyer's behalf. A fee of £350 + VAT to do so will be added to the Buyer's invoice.