'Probably the most unorthodox motorcycle ever made' rolls into Paris

Headlining the motorcycles consigned to Bonhams' first sale at the Grand Palais, Paris, on February 5 is a rare, radial-engined Megola.

Powered by a 640cc five-cylinder engine built into the front wheel, the Megola was described by motorcycling historian Erwin Tragatsch as "probably the most unorthodox motorcycle ever made on a commercial basis".

Only some 2,000-or-so were produced in Germany between 1921 and 1925, and today the few survivors are highly prized by collectors.


The radial-engined Megola, of which only some 2,000 were made

The example on offer was restored circa 1990, has been tested by La Vie de la Moto magazine and shown at the Salon Moto Légende. It is estimated to sell for €145,000-200,000.

Ben Walker, Head of Motorcycles at Bonhams comments, "It is wonderful to be offering such a fine selection of motorcycles at Paris' premier venue.

"It will be particularly interesting to see what price the rare Megola fetches."

Watch this space for upcoming news on the sale.

 

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