The Michael ("Mick") Brough Collection, 1982 Fantic 159cc FM350 Trials 200

A relative newcomer to the motorcycling scene, Fantic arrived in 1968 when motorcycle sales were in decline, but prospered thanks to investment in state-of-the-art manufacturing technology and careful targeting of niche markets. The firm was founded in Barzago, near Milan, by Mario Agrati and Henry Keppel, and commenced production with a range of mini-bikes aimed squarely at the United States leisure market. In the early 1970s the firm introduced its first proper motorcycles, the 50cc and 100cc Caballero trail bikes with engines sourced from Minarelli and Morini respectively. Fantic motorcycles were first imported into the UK in 1972 by Barron Eurotrade Ltd, whose headquarters was in Hornchurch, Essex.

The short step from trail bikes to purpose-built competition motorcycles was taken in 1973 when the company launched the 125cc Caballero Regolarita Competizone ISDT machine, a model on which factory supported riders achieved numerous international successes. The company next branched out into motocross and in the late 1970s built its first specialised one-day trials machine. It remains at the forefront of this demanding branch of motorcycle sport today.

Michael Brough acquired this Fantic in 2025 from a Mr Hollows of Todmorden, who had acquired the machine in September 1998 from a Mr Edwin of Rochdale. It should be noted that the HPI report contains conflicting information regarding the motorcycle's age, listing the year of manufacture as 1982 while recording the date of first UK registration as 01/08/1978.

The frame number is only partially visible due to the presence of a bash plate and can be read as '00047', with the final digits obscured. The HPI report records the full frame number as '0004758'. The engine number could not be located during inspection; however, the HPI report records it as '0006984'. Accompanying paperwork consists of a V5C document listing five former keepers; and old V5C; and some photocopied Fantic literature.

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.

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