Italian title

Frame No. 163895 Engine No. 163895

- Iconic model

- High-quality old restoration

- Engine with character

- No reserve

 

Unveiled in 1940, the Gilera Saturno became one of the best motorcycles of its time. It was fitted with an excellent 500 cc single-cylinder engine with overhead valves and was characterised by a particular oscillating rear suspension, with parallelogram and friction shock absorbers. It also led to racing by-products that stood out from the crowd on circuits (both in the hands of amateurs and professionals) and could compete with English machines like the Norton Manx. For the record, this model was favored by the colourful French rider “Jojo” Houel. The Saturno gained such a reputation that the manufacturer revived the name in the late 1980s for a sporty single-cylinder model.

Sold new on the 17th May 1947 in Reggio Emilia, this Saturno Sport was later registered in Brescia, then again in Reggio Emilia under the number RE 005837 before being purchased by Umberto Panini in 1993. It had an old high-quality restoration carried out, which preserved its authentic appearance, making this classic from the brand particularly attractive. 

Photos © G. Rizotto