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LOT 88

1956 Rumi 125cc Formichino Registration no. not registered Frame no. 22351 Engine no. 22191

Sold for £4,600 inc. premium
Lot 88

1956 Rumi 125cc Formichino

1956 Rumi 125cc Formichino
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 22351
Engine no. 22191

Rumi was founded in Bergamo, Italy at the beginning of the 20th Century. The company originally supplied components to the textile industry and during World War 2 produced miniature submarines and torpedoes. Headed by Donnino Rumi, it switched to motorcycle manufacture at the war's end, introducing its first Turismo model in 1950. This little gem was powered by what would become Rumi's trademark engine, a 125cc parallel twin two-stroke, the cylinders of which were inclined horizontally. It is for its motor scooters that Rumi is best remembered today, particularly the Formichino (Little Ant) and its derivatives, which were among the fastest scooters of their day. A masterpiece of scooter design, the Formichino arrived in 1954. Its rivals might have been designed with cheapness and simplicity in mind, but Donnino Rumi started from engineering first principles with the Formichino, using the engine as a stressed member of the chassis, which was made up from aluminium castings bolted together. Out of production since the company's closure in 1962, the Formichino is today one of the most highly sought-after of all scooters.

Acquired by the current vendor at Bonhams' Summer Sale in 2020 (Lot 669), this vehicle was previously part of the renowned Morbidelli Museum Collection. Since purchase, the vendor has fitted new whitewall tyres and had the engine running; however, it has not been used for over four years. As a result, it will require careful recommissioning before returning to the road (the engine turns over with compression). Offered with a NOVA declaration and a Morbidelli Museum display board.
Key not required

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

AUCTION INFORMATION & GUIDE FOR BUYERS
Please see the Auction Information and Guide for Buyers at the top of the main sale page (Motorcycles Online - The Summer Sale) for all pertinent information regarding bidder's obligations, viewing, bidding, payment, post-sale collection & transportation.

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BUYER'S PREMIUM
The Buyer's Premium for this Lot is 15%+VAT on the first £500,000 of the Hammer Price, and 12%+VAT on the balance thereafter.

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