- Outstanding, lightweight bike; very original design

- Superb restoration

- Beautifully finished

- No reserve

With its pressed-steel X-frame, the Motom Cross was, to say the least, highly original, a characteristic associated with the engineer who designed it, Battista Falchetto, formerly Vincenzo Lancia’s right-hand man. The connection with cars did not stop there, as the coachbuilders Farina and Frua were involved with the first models. As well as its unusual frame, this Motom is fitted with a 48cc single-cylinder overhead-valve engine, designed as a single unit with the three-speed gearbox controlled by a twist grip. The crankshaft and con rods were mounted on needle bearings, proof of their sophistication, while the overall specification included a telescopic fork and sliding suspension.

This outstanding, lightweight machine was offered in various guises, including the ‘Cross’ presented here. The fine restoration sets off its lovely finish with a dual seat, kick starter and full lighting. A small motorbike rather than merely a moped, the Cross testifies to the inventiveness of the Italian manufacturers, who were always looking for elegance and lightness.

Photos © G. Rizotto