83cc Ottantre Turismo

Intorduced in 1958, the “Ottantatre” (Eighty-three) used an unusual engine displacement, 83cc. While motorcyclys today tend towards the bigger the better formula, in 1958, buyers were looking for transportation that wouldn’t break the bank, either when buying the machine or filling its fuel tank. MV experimented with engine displacements and felt that 83cc was sufficient to power a motorcycle that could carry two people and still deliver acceptable fuel economy. Two versions of the “Ottantatre” were available, Turisom and Sport. The diminutive 4-stroke engine puffed out 4,2 HP at 6,400 rpm, enough to propel the bike to 80 km/h. A front hydraulic fork held up a simple, sturdy, tubular frame, while the rear suspension was a swingarm design. This version cost 135,000 Lire in 1960.