Automoto 50cc Moped

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THIS IS A LATE ENTRY AND WILL NOT APPEAR IN THE PRINTED CATALOGUE

Interest in ‘tiddlers’ or mopeds has increased greatly in the last few years as collectors have sought easy-to-own lightweights to add to their collections. You only have to wander around the pits at any historic race meet to see how these retro small bikes have become the ‘must have’ accessory in the pit lane.

Cute as can be, this Automoto 50cc moped comes straight out of 1950’s France. It is equipped with a big chromed bell, moulded rubber pedals, a comfortable saddle and ample saddle bags. It will never be a machine for a man in a hurry but makes a wonderful steady and stylish conveyance. A sprung leatherette saddle takes care of comfort and rear suspension duties, while sprung forks soak up the bumps at the other end.

The vendor says, it is in perfect running order and is a doddle to ride thanks to its ‘twist and go’ automatic transmission. It even comes equipped with a carry handle in the bottom of the bike frame so you can just pick it up and carry it if you come across an obstacle too tricky to ride over!

Fully restored, it was first registered in the UK in 2004 and carries the age-related number 197 UXE which is non-transferable. It has three old MOT test certificates and is now MOT test exempt. Add in free tax, cheap insurance and miserly fuel consumption, and this moped must make getting about almost as cheap as walking. Ready to ride and easy to store, this pretty little piece of post-war industrial design is just itching for some sunny slow speed adventures around Goodwood or the rural lanes of France.

Please be aware that this Automoto has a St Quentin charm on the headstock which, as any Frenchman or mademoiselle will know, is meant to ward off unwanted pregnancy. Good job it’s a single seat bike then…