1955 Ferrari 125cc
1955 Ferrari 125cc
A name does not always tell the truth
In 1953, expectations were running high for the upcoming Motosalone di Milano: it was rumored that a Ferrari motorcycle would be unveiled. Enzo Ferrari had only begun building his famous race cars in Maranello in 1946, but already he had swept the international racetracks. A Ferrari motorcycle was bound to raise excitement. When the show opened, enthusiasts flocked to the stand to gaze at the Ferrari. It was a 125cc single-cylinder two-stroke with a two-speed gearbox, and naturally, it was painted in brilliant Italian racing red. Orders for the motorcycle were placed.
A Ferrari That Was Not a Ferrari
After the show closed and deliveries were not forthcoming, angry inquirers called on the Maranello factory, only to meet further surprise. The Ferrari motorcycle bore no connection with the Ferrari cars. It turned out that the motorcycle was being constructed by two Milanese brothers with the last name of Ferrari, a relatively common name in northern Italy. And quite soon after the show, the Ferrari emblem disappeared from the bikes’ gas tanks to be replaced by an emblem that read Fratelli Ferrari. Enzo Ferrari had made his displeasure known.
A Parilla That Was Not a Parilla
The Ferrari brothers had also impinged on another famous name, Moto Parilla. One of the brothers had worked for several years at Parilla, and when starting their own company, they borrowed Parilla engines. The Fratelli Ferrari 125cc two-stroke was a direct copy of Parilla’s engine that had been successful in roadsters and racers.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 125cc air-cooled vertical single cylinder two-stroke
Power Rating: 9 hp at 6000 rpm
Valves: two cycle induction
Fuel System: Dell’Orto carburetor
Transmission: 4-speed gearbox
Suspension: telescopic forks (front); swing arm (rear)
Brakes: drum brakes (front & rear)
Wheels: wire laced
Weight: approx. 200 lb
Maximum Speed: approx. 50 mph
Fratelli Ferrari built motorcycles until 1954. The following bikes were of the brothers’ own design in two- and four-stroke and single- and twin cylinder form, ranging from 125 to 250cc.
This and many other Atlas Editions Classic Motorcycle cards are available for purchase.
