FOR SALE A stunning funky UK Fantic TX 201 Gran Turismo (GT) Moped. MODEL HISTORY On the 15th December 1971 the Tory Transport Minister, John Peyton, changed British two-wheeler licensing regulations and the infamous ‘sixteener law’ forced all 16-year old motorcyclists onto mopeds. The law was intended to force novice bikers onto 50cc shopping bikes and reduce accident statistics but demand remained and manufacturers produced more powerful models. Equipped with pedals, added as a token gesture to comply with the law, the sports moped arrived dubbed ‘sixteener specials’. Fantic Motor was one such importer created in Barzago near Milan by Henry Keppel and Mario Agrati circa 1968. The aim was to produce fun bikes for the USA market, they produced a successful range of minibikes, including trikes and choppers before they set about building their first motorcycle in 1971. Described by Motorcycle Mechanics Magazine in 1977 as the closest a moped will ever get to a real motorcycle, the Fantic GT was faster than other Fantic models of the time also being smoother and more comfortable. The GT was found to be reliable and easy to start with the controls positive and responsive. EQUIPMENT Double loop steel tube frame, 1.7 imp. Gallon fuel tank, alloy wheel hubs, dual beam headlamp with ‘lights on’ indicator, rear lamp, stainless steel front and rear mudguards, rubber front mudguard extender, rear foot pegs, chrome exhaust, Domino clutch and front brake levers, CEV control switch and speedometer, electromagnetic horn, engine cut-out button, fuel valve, Fantic motor embossed seat, storage cubby with tool kit. EXTERIOR A UK registered bike from new, this desirable Fantic GT is a superb example of bikes that spawned the 1970 Sports Moped phenomenon. The light and sturdy tubular steel frame is in excellent condition and the fuel tank boasts a deep polished shine and quality finish with perfect decals. Bright chrome work, polished stainless steel, beautifully painted side panels in Azzurro Blue and decals further make this sporty moped a sight to be seen. The pristine dual seat with pillion strap and Fantic Motor embossed logo looks super and still has the zipped pocket leading the seat to be nicknamed, “The Italian condom seat”. A very collectable example in tremendous condition. ENGINE & TRANSMISSION The Fantic motor Minarelli two-stroke 49cc air cooled engine is quoted to produce 6.8 bhp @8000rpm and capable of speeds up to 60.5mph making this no normal moped! The engine casings and components are super clean and the Fantic’s prancing pony design, cheekily echoing Ferrari’s famous logo is clear and proud. The original Dell’Orto carburettor remains fitted with manual pull-up and twist choke. The Silenziatori Lafranconi exhaust has been re-chromed and incredibly the part number and logo can still be seen. This unrestricted bike is fully operational and rides well with four speed foot change transmission and chain drive. WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES The chrome rim and spoked wheels are in immaculate condition and the 3.00-17 tyres show masses of tread. Drum brakes front and rear provide adequate braking of this sporty Moped. HISTORY FILE Bought new based on a list price of £325 in June 1977 by the first owner, this fantastic moped was UK registered from new with a registration date of the 23rd June 1977. Restored in around 2015, the previous owner purchased the bike in 2020 whereby is has been displayed in his garage showroom amongst an impressive collection of Yamaha ‘Fizzy’s’, Gilera’s, Garelli’s and classic cars. This impeccable collector’s bike has only now been made available by the downsizing of the owner’s collection. HPI Clear.