ASI: a collection of "micromotors" dating back to the 40s and 50s [PHOTO]

A group of 36 “micromotors”, made between 40s and 50s of the last century, make up the new collection acquired by ASI. Examples that represent interesting evidence of an inexpensive and simple individual mobility system in the post-World War II period.

The collection

It is the fruit of 25 years of research carried out by the passionate Lodi native Michele Muzii, with the aim of preserving and remembering the creativity and genius of various Italian designers, mechanics and craftsmen and also from other countries, who, despite minimal means, allowed people to travel on vehicles simpler and lighter than a motorcycle.
These are essentially bicycles with small engines applied, developed as "unicum" with a frame to which an engine has been combined. The settings were disparate, considering auxiliary units with roller or chain transmission, as mentioned.
Among the examples developed in Italy we mention: a rare Lamone model made in Ravenna by the Cooperativa Metallurgici e Affini; a Gloria couple of Turin origin, a Luxury type designed for men and women; a legendary Alpino from Pavia who, thanks to a 48 cc engine, made it possible to set a world speed record on the flying mile of over 92 km/h way back in 1952 and also a very rare Babystar tricycle equipped with a roller engine that simulated a double cylinder.

Among the foreign creations, the following stand out: an ancient Ajax of French origin with a Salmson engine equipped with an engine placed halfway up the down tube of the frame and a double transmission belt, one of which is made of leather; the original English bike and engine combination from the Raleigh, equipped with a removable box resting on the third wheel; the German Durkopp equipped with a Rex engine with belt drive on the front wheel and a distinctive long muffler placed vertically along the axis of the front fork and from overseas a Flying Eagle with a compact Cyclex drive unit derived from the lawnmower engines of the 50s .
La ASI Micromotors Collection it is exhibited in the large eighteenth-century atrium of Villa Rey, in Turin, the national headquarters of the Italian Historic Automotoclub. An exhibition open to the public upon reservation, in full compliance with current regulations related to the health emergency.
The selection of means is linked to two factors: aesthetics and comparison. The result of research and conservative restorations.

Photo: ASI (Italian Historic Automotoclub)