Classic Bike Guide

Fantic made small capacity two-strokes,

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like many small Italian manufactur­ers, but what it had over and above the herd was a genius in marketing. As well as making smart trails and competitiv­e moto crossers and enduro

Chopper 50/125

49cc/124cc two-stroke single || 242lb || 80mph (125) || 1974-1979 Imported from 1972, the Chopper was powered by a Minarelli two-stroke engine that Fantic used in its other models, including the Caballero and the GT sports moped. It was garish and fitted with ridiculous­ly long front forks and ape-hanger handlebars, with a tiny fuel tank and funky bikes such as the Caballero, Fantic sport mopeds were the king of the sixth form bike shed, with owners claiming 60mph top speeds from their 50s. paint job. Build quality was not great, but the 125 engine was identical to that fitted to the company’s off-roaders. The factory claimed it could propel the Chopper to 80mph. Hard to find, the Chopper has a cult following.

Prices

£5000-£8000

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