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MOTO RUMI JUNIOR - $Auction

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To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Dare to Dream Collection event, 31 May - 1 June 2024.
Offered Without Reserve | $30,000 - $40,000 USD

  • A rare and stylish midcentury motorcycle from one of the most storied Italian marques
  • Believed to be one of approximately 300 produced from 1955 through 1959
  • A lovely example in striking colors, acquired out of California


Please note, this lot is registered in Canada and import duty will be applicable to all countries outside of Canada, including the United States.


Fonderie Officine Rumi started around the turn of the century in Bergamo, Italy making cast components for textile machinery. In the leadup to and during WWII, it was contracted to manufacture armaments for the Italian navy. After the end of the war, the company turned to building small motorcycles and scooters around a 125-cubic-centimeter two-stroke parallel twin-cylinder engine mounted horizontally in a tubular chassis with both cylinders pointing forward. The crankcase and transmission were stressed members, forming the bottom of the “frame,” a design that has since proliferated in modern motorcycle design.

The first Moto Rumi models were produced in 1949, while scooters featuring sophisticated monocoque bodies made entirely of cast aluminum followed several years later. Rumi built both road and race motorcycles, the latter Competizione model was nicknamed “Gobbetto” or “little hunchback” for its distinctively shaped fuel tank. Raced by both factory and private teams, Rumi motorcycles saw success in competition, with a Gobbetto winning the Italian National Championship in 1954. In 1955, the Competizione gave way to the Junior Corsa, which would be replaced by the Junior Gentleman in 1959.

The Dare to Dream Collection acquired this lovely example in 2014 out of California. Its striking livery of red paint with black accents remain lustrous, as does the brightwork. The black suede seat and padding atop the fuel tank likewise show in good condition, and the engine remains well detailed, while light scratches are apparent on the windscreen.

With their melodious 125-cubic-centimeter twin and stylish 18-liter fuel tank styled by Donnino Rumi, son of company founder Achilles Rumi, the Juniors are fashionable machines and rare, with approximately 300 produced from 1955 through 1959.To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/dd24.

  • 0 Miles
  • Transmission 69197354786223e29b85070a0695cc247a4c2b215c743673c2d02e864b4cd687 N/A
  • Steering ca68a9643bbb915d30839040f432af59e679db8cf98e23a4378cbef2ed805059 RHD
  • RefCode: D3542A11-006A-6DE6-B136-483621F63E49