The Michael ("Mick") Brough Collection, 1976 Moto Morini 348cc 3½ Sport

Before the arrival of its family of 72-degree v-twin roadsters, Morini's reputation had rested mainly on its highly successful double-overhead-cam single-cylinder racers. An entirely different approach was adopted for the v-twins: each cylinder's two valves were pushrod-operated by a single camshaft while the combustion chambers were located, not in the flat-faced cylinder heads, but in the piston crowns. Coupled to a six-speed gearbox, this superb motor's performance belied its lack of capacity, endowing the lightweight, nimble-footed Morini with a top speed of around 100mph. Sport and Strada (touring) versions were made, early models having drum brakes, later ones discs.

This stylish Moto Morini 3½ Sport was purchased by Michael Brough from the auction at the National Motorcycle Museum in July 2024. At that time the machine was described as being in good overall condition, having formed part of a private collection and been run recently. It was offered with a current V5C registration document and was considered suitable for return to road use following routine checks and recommissioning. The then vendor advised that the motorcycle had been run periodically during their ownership and had last been run shortly before the sale. It was expected to require only general checks and recommissioning before returning to regular road use.

DVLA records show the Morini was first registered on 18th June 1976. According to the HPI report, the machine has had five previous keepers, with the current keeper recorded from 03/07/2024. The fuel tank shows paint loss along the lower seam, and the filler cap is missing. These issues may indicate a previous or ongoing fuel leak, and the tank should therefore be closely inspected by any prospective purchaser before further use. The odometer displays a total of 24,865 miles.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding. Accompanying paperwork includes a current V5C document, photocopy old V5 and the 2024 auction listing.

Offered with key