c1956 Moto Guzzi Zigolo 98cc Motorcycle

Description

One of Italy's oldest and most successful motorcycle manufacturers, Moto Guzzi was established in 1921 and proved the dominant force in Grand Prix motorcycle racing in the 1930s and again in the 1950s. Although Moto Guzzi's wartime production was limited to 500cc machines for military use, the company had already sensed the need for cheap, basic transportation and before hostilities ceased a simple two-stroke moped was being developed. The diminutive Guzzino scooter and its successors, the Motoleggera and Cardellino, proved hugely successful for Moto Guzzi, building the foundations for a solid future. In 1953 a new model was designed to bridge the gap between the mopeds and the larger Galletto. Known as the Zigolo, the new model was powered by a two-stroke 98cc single developing four horsepower at 5,200 rpm, while the unitary frame was a comparatively advanced, partially enclosed design. Devoid of any chrome, the first Zigolos were finished in drab grey with a blued exhaust and rear dampers. The following year a more upmarket model, the Zigolo Lusso, was unveiled with chrome panels on the tank, bright red paintwork and 17-inch rims. There were also plans to build a Sport model, with a larger cylinder head, but these were shelved. The Zigolo ultimately remained in production until 1966, having been with a larger 110cc engine from 1959, telescopic forks and other minor improvements over the years. Today the few surviving Zigolos make perfect display or club bikes, with a thriving club scene across most of Australia.

NB;This bike appears to have the later tank/saddle (from a 110 of 1960-1966)