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LOT 84

The David Plant Collection c.1980 Testi 50cc Champion Special Moped Registration no. Q973 UHB Frame no. TESTI CHSP*01096* (see text) Engine no. 807 (see text)

Sold for £977.50 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 84

The David Plant Collection, c.1980 Testi 50cc Champion Special Moped

The David Plant Collection
c.1980 Testi 50cc Champion Special Moped
Registration no. Q973 UHB
Frame no. TESTI CHSP*01096* (see text)
Engine no. 807 (see text)

Italian bicycle firm turned motorcycle manufacturer, Testi built a wide variety of mopeds and lightweight motorcycles using proprietary engines from around 1949 until its final closure in 1993. Sachs power units were used initially followed by Demm and then Minarelli. Collaboration with French bicycle manufacturer Gitane led to Testi's motorcycles being marketed in France and the UK under the 'Gitane-Testi' brand name. Gitane-Testi mopeds were imported into the UK between October 1975 and July 1977, coinciding with the 'Sixteener Special' boom.

One of the most glamorous Fifties of its day, the Testi Champion Special boasted a specification that read more like a superbike than an ultra-lightweight. Manufactured from 1975 to 1982, the Champion Special was powered by a 49.6cc Motori Minarelli two-stroke engine available with either a three-speed or four-speed transmission. Other notable features included a radially finned cylinder head; duplex loop frame; mono-shock rear suspension; cast-alloy wheels; hydraulic disc front brake; matching speedometer and rev counter, clip-on handlebars; one-piece glassfibre tank and bodywork; stainless steel mudguards; a quick-action throttle; and a cockpit fairing (missing from this example).

This Testi was first registered in the UK in January 1990 (the V5C states manufacturing date unknown). The machine was purchased by vendor in 2013 and currently displays a total of 1,474 miles on the odometer (the engine turns over). Accompany documentation consists of an MoT dating from 1999 and the current V5C Registration Certificate. It should be noted that the HPI records the frame number as 'CH5P0109' (the '5' would appear to be a clerical error) and the engine number as 'D0M12620M'. There would appear to be no ignition barrel fitted.

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.

Offered without key

Footnotes

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

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.

CONDITIONS OF SALE, AUCTION INFORMATION & GUIDE FOR BUYERS
Please see the 'CONDITIONS OF SALE, AUCTION INFORMATION & 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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