- High-quality old restoration

- Little-known model in Gilera’s history

- Homogeneous and rare example

- No reserve

Gilera is well-known for its sporting successes and World Championship victories, but less so for its motorcycles. The name of this particular model defines its configuration: the 500 VLE, which stands for “500 cc Valvole Laterale Elastica”, meaning a lateral-valve engine and the presence of a rear suspension (in this case, a parallelogram), at a time when the latter was sometimes considered unnecessary. This is a robust machine with a separate gearbox and unlike the Gilera Marte (which was intended exclusively for military use), it is not equipped with a towed-wheel sidecar.

Produced between 1936 and 1941, the VLE experienced some commercial success before being used by the Italian army, just like this particular example which had an old restoration carried out and retaining a matte paint finish which reflects its use. The passenger can hold onto a high support handlebar and the sidecar is equipped with a windshield , a storage compartment and a spare wheel. Reminiscent of a lesser-known chapter in the history of the Arcore-based manufacturer, this rare and beautiful example (with all its accessories) would be a valuable addition to a collection focused on the brand or military motorcycles. 

Photos © G. Rizotto