Former Stafford and Bristol Classic MotorCycle Show Concours Winning, 1956 MV Agusta 175cc Modello CS Sport

In the early 1950s the Italian authorities permitted racing on public roads. The most important of these races was the Motogiro d'Italia for motorcycles up to 175cc. It covered some 3,000 kilometres in six one-day stages, starting and finishing in Bologna. It was the showcase for the Italian manufacturers' sports models.

According to documentation on file, this MV Agusta Modello CS Sport was first registered on Jersey, Channel Islands on 18th August 1956, carrying the registration 'J2193'. The machine was subsequently re-registered in Jersey on 28th May 1971 as 'J42267', remaining on the island with three recorded keepers. The MV was later imported into the United Kingdom and first registered there in July 1979 as 'FDF 170T'. The accompanying V5C records the previous keeper, Donald Hayne of Cheltenham.

At the time of purchase a detailed condition report prepared by Wavetone Ltd, dated 19th July 1995, described the motorcycle as being in worn and weathered condition, with minor dents, missing or non-standard parts and signs of earlier cosmetic attention. The vendor purchased the MV from Wavetone and undertook an extensive and detailed restoration, which is extensively documented - including numerous photographs - in the accompanying history file.

When purchased in 1995 the MV had a battered megaphone exhaust, and the fabrication of a new one was the vendor's first restoration task. Unfortunately, when checking the 1956 build standard down to individual fastenings, he discovered the megaphone exhaust was not introduced until 1957, which is why it is included as a spare. The exhaust fitted to the bike is of the correct period type.

During restoration the engine and gearbox were given a full overhaul. A new cylinder liner was fitted together with a new piston and small-end bearing. All bearings except the big-end were replaced, and the camshaft and rockers were built-up and re-profiled. The clutch plates were resurfaced and the thrust bearing replaced.

Also on file are programmes and photographs from events where the MV has been displayed, together with period information relating to the model noting that a race-prepared version of the CS Sport was Tommy Robb's first sponsored ride, at Lurgan Park, Northern Ireland, in April 1956. The photograph of Tommy Robb on the machine has been autographed by him.

The first machine to feature in The Classic MotorCycle's series In The Spotlight (March 2007 edition) the MV has also enjoyed considerable success in the concours arena, receiving numerous awards including:

• 1st Continental Machine, 26th Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show, 2006
• Best Continental Machine, 27th Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show, 2007
• Best Continental Machine, Carole Nash International Classic Motorcycle Show, April 2008
• 1st Continental Machine, 29th Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show, 2009
• Best Continental Machine, Carole Nash International Classic Motorcycle Show, April 2010

Corresponding rosettes and presentation plates for these awards are included in the sale, together with a motorcycle cover and silencers. Since the 2010 show a rev-counter has been added. The MV was last run circa 2012. The bike has always been kept in the owner's centrally heated dining room under a cotton dust-sheet The only likely deterioration since 2010 is slight oxidation of the aluminium and some hardening of small rubber parts including the seals within the petrol taps. A new 6V battery will be required as part of the recommissioning process.

Offered with a V5C registration document. The current odometer reading is 14,330 miles and the engine turns over with compression. As well as the aforementioned trophies, extensive history file, and spare silencer, megaphone and downpipe, the machine is also offered with a replica tool kit, tyre pump (marked 'Emmevi'), a bespoke waterproof cover and key. A beautiful machine worthy of close inspection.

Offered with key