1978 Benelli 750cc Sei

• The world's first production six-cylinder motorcycle
• Delivered new to Spain
• Present ownership since 2015
• Professionally restored
• Stored since completion in 2016

Despite a racing heritage second to none, Benelli was in trouble by the late 1960s and fell into the clutches of Argentinian industrialist Alejandro De Tomaso in 1971. Under De Tomaso's stewardship the revitalised company was soon grabbing the headlines with a host of new models, none more startling than the 750cc Sei (Six) of 1972, the world's first production six-cylinder motorcycle. The fact that Benelli was able to produce the design so quickly despite lacking previous experience of this type of engine was easily explained: it looked like a Honda CB500 'four' with two extra cylinders, which in effect was just what it was. Even the bore and stroke dimensions were identical to those of the Japanese unit. Production proper began in 1974, but the Benelli was soon overshadowed by Honda's own CBX1000 'six', forcing the Italian company to respond with the 900 Sei in 1980.

This Benelli Sei was purchased in Spain from Juan Luis Ramos Corcin, owner of the Benelli since at least 1987, on 1st June 1994 by Frank Richard Kletschkus of Berlin, who subsequently moved to the UK in 1998, bringing the bike with him. The machine was registered as 'EMV 83T' in August 1998. The vendor bought the Benelli from Mr Kletschkus in 23 October 2015 at approximately 44,000 kilometres (circa 27,300 miles). The Benelli was then passed to a well known Italian bike specialist for restoration, during which every part was stripped for renovation or replacement. The frame was refinished in original black cellulose and the bodywork changed to red (from blue) to suit the owner's preference. In addition, the engine and gearbox were completely rebuilt and the instruments changed to UK specification. The engine rebuild included fitting electronic ignition and having the cam followers Tufftride hardened (originally they were chromed). Since the rebuild was completed in late 2016 the machine has covered a mere eight miles. It is very nicely presented, the restorer having paid close attention to detail during the rebuild.

The Sei has remained in the vendor's private collection since purchase (stored in a 'bike bubble') and only run on rare occasions at local shows. It was last run in March 2024 and is described by our vendor as in excellent condition. Accompanying documentation includes an instruction manual (in Italian); an original USA sales brochure; Spanish paperwork relating to registration and purchase; and a bill of sale between Mr Kletschkus and our vendor dated 2015. The machine also comes with restoration bills; a V5C document (which incorrectly records the engine number as BC8489); and a USB stick containing images of the restoration. Keys present.