The world of minibikes is, to say the least, fascinating. You just have to take a look at this one Mini MV Agusta GP “replica” to get an idea of what it must have been like to own one of these in the mid-70s of the last century. A true toy for “big kids” that today has become a de facto coveted collector’s item.
The reason is based on several key aspects of the history and production of the model, in addition to the fact that this example in question is in truly impeccable condition.
Mini MV Agusta GP “replica” in detail
There are few brands in the world that boast the level of iconicity that MV Agusta enjoys. This is the result of a series of factors where multiple aspects related to their street models are mixed, epic triumphs within the demanding world of competition, as well as an irresistible halo where craftsmanship and revered “Made in Italy” They join hands in each of the creations born in their facilities in Varese.
Furthermore, throughout their more than eight decades of history they have given life to such unique projects as this Mini MV Agusta GP “replica”. We are talking about a special series produced since the mid-1970s after the interest aroused by the example built by the factory as a gift to Phil Read’s son, after the latter won the 500 cc world championship in 1973.
“One of the images that caused this stir around the little Italian minibike was a black and white photograph of Phil Read sitting on the bike, playfully pleading with two parking officers to give him just a warning.”they explained a few years ago in a detailed article about the model on the specialized website Silodrome.
Subsequently, the brand produced between 200 and 2,000 examples of this special edition in its entirety (except for the engine). Other sources speak of only 300 units, although what is clear is that most of them have not survived over the years. In addition, the Mini MV Agusta GP “replica” was offered in several size configurations, equipping 8- and 10-inch wheels, and a less common 12-inch version.
What was general in all of them was their Franco Morini single cylinder engine 48 cc two-stroke, with a compression ratio of 6.5:1, fed by a Dellorto carburetor and equipped with a single-speed gearbox with centrifugal clutch. However, he was capable of catapulting the 30 kilos of weight in running order up to a top speed of approximately 40km/h.
At the finish level, in addition to having a beautiful fairing emulating the shapes of the brand’s competition motorcycles, it also included an exhaust system with double side outlets in the image and likeness of its older sisters. In the chassis section, this Mini MV Agusta GP “replica” was assembled around a tubular steel chassis and a swingarm of conventional design.
The suspension was equipped with a front telescopic fork and a pair of lateral shock absorbers anchored to the rear. Finally, for braking, MV Agusta provided a pair of drums assembled on the typical radial tires of the time. According to the description of the ad itself “This restored example has belonged to our seller for more than 20 years and is in very good general condition.”
Concludes: “Presented in good working order. A magnificent example of this collectible mini MV Agusta. It is not registered for road use”. It is estimated that its final value in the auction may reach a figure close to 5,000 pounds, about 5,800 euros at the exchange ratealthough we already know what happens when an auction offers “deli” of this style…
More information and details on the official Iconic Auctioneers website.
