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-   -   1965 Benelli Sprite restoration - thoughts? (http://forums.pelicanparts.com/showthread.php?t=899354)

derek murray 01-20-2016 12:55 PM

1965 Benelli Sprite restoration - thoughts?
 
I have an itch to scratch.

In my youth I worked on Nortons and Triumphs but nothing more "exotic" than that. Recently, a 1965 Benelli Sprite 200cc has become available locally. It's complete, straight, although is not running. The motor has compression and moves freely. It's very very sexy and I can't get it out of my head. The price is <2K.

Does anyone have any experience with old Benellis? Am I nuts and setting myself up for frustration and heartache?

This is what the bike could look like...

<iframe width="854" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hs68KCXEOY4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

javadog 01-20-2016 12:59 PM

You need to consider what condition it is in and how likely it is that you can find parts for a Benelli that old.

JR

scottmandue 01-20-2016 03:46 PM

I believe someone here restored a Benelli, hopefully he will chime in.

derek murray 01-20-2016 03:53 PM

1965 Benelli Sprite restoration - thoughts?
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by javadog (Post 8965500)
You need to consider what condition it is in....


java - The bike is complete, straight and all original. No rust or significant dings. It is not running (nor has been for quite awhile), however, the motor has compression and turns freely.

Chocaholic 01-20-2016 04:16 PM

You know you've made your decision. And I agree BTW. Keep us posted!

derek murray 01-20-2016 04:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chocaholic (Post 8965745)
You know you've made your decision. And I agree BTW. Keep us posted!


Is it that obvious [emoji41]


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derek murray 01-20-2016 05:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by peteremsley (Post 8965749)
I remember a Morini, but not the Benelli.



I'd be fearful that you'd end up upside-down kinda quick, based on my experience with futzing with less rare old bikes. I don't know that to be the case with this make and model, but consider it...



(edit) Hagerty has $1800 for good, $5k for concours - https://www.hagerty.com/apps/valuationtools/1965-benelli-sprite_ohv (not sure if that means much)


That's what I'm afraid of, too. Although, for some reason the emotional part of me is saying - "Derek, it will all be good" [emoji83]

Thanks for that Hagerty app link. I'd not seen that before


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derek murray 01-20-2016 05:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by peteremsley (Post 8965813)
hehehe. make sure you don't keep a pile of receipts :)


Peter - I own a 1970 911 and happily married... I am a master of the 2 binder receipt system.


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HardDrive 01-20-2016 05:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by derek murray (Post 8965834)
I own a 1970 911 and happily married... I am a master of the 2 binder receipt system.


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Early contender for quote of the year.

dheinz 01-20-2016 05:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HardDrive (Post 8965841)
Early contender for quote of the year.

Agreed...

GWN7 01-20-2016 05:35 PM

I know a couple of guys that work on old bikes that are local. I'll see them in the morning and ask if they know of any resources for you.

epbrown 01-20-2016 06:24 PM

Huh, I've been having thoughts along the same lines:68 Benelli /Riverside 250 project. Italian single (ducati-cafe racer)

http://images.craigslist.org/00K0K_e...Tg_600x450.jpg

biosurfer1 01-20-2016 06:47 PM

Just ask yourself if on your deathbed will you say "I sure am glad I didn't that Benelli when I had the chance"?

porsche4life 01-20-2016 07:17 PM

Do it! Sounds like it won't need too much!!! (Famous last words I know! )

Don Ro 01-20-2016 07:42 PM

Get it...an post pics of the progress.

Bill Douglas 01-20-2016 08:48 PM

It will be cheaper, and easier, than a 911 restoration. LOL, most things are.

LakeCleElum 01-20-2016 09:39 PM

I've never let the Price keep my from taking an old motorcycle under my roof.......

Don Ro 01-20-2016 09:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by epbrown (Post 8965901)

This looks promising.


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