c.1969 Aermacchi 350cc Ala d'Oro Racing Motorcycle
Frame no. AER 32824
Engine no. 190835

Aermacchi is a household name among motorcyclists thanks to its heroic achievement of producing the most highly developed and successful overhead-valve racing single ever, the Ala d'Oro (Golden Wing), which arrived in 1960. As development progressed, the increased power achieved brought with it increasing unreliability, necessitating a re-design for 1966 when larger flywheels, modified piston and connecting rod, dry clutch and wider gears were among improvements introduced. Although the pushrod Aermacchi never won a World Championship race, it did achieve a number of 2nd places, Alan Barnett's in the 1970 Junior TT being one of the most memorable. Despite a lack of ultimate success in Grands Prix, the Aermacchi single was outstandingly successful at national level and today, having benefited from another three decades of development, remains a competitive force in historic motorcycle racing. Described by the vendor as in original condition, this 'dry clutch' 350 Ala d'Oro incorporates a Menani-tuned twin-plug motor equipped with a Dell'Orto racing carburettor; oil cooler; modified lubrication system; and Pazon electronic ignition. Other noteworthy features include some Menani cycle parts; Borrani alloy wheel rims; Ceriani forks; and Koni rear suspension. The machine carries two plaques recording its successful participation in Italian championships in the 1990s and is offered with a receipt for installing the ignition system.