Moto Rumi Bol d'Or

As the ultimate version of the Formichino (Little Ant), the Moto Rumi Bol d'Or gained its name from the legendary French endurance race which too place at the various circuits throughout the country and is still run to this day. Scooters were first introduced to the race in 1955 with Lambretta claiming the first few years before the spectacular engineering of Donnino Rumi won through taking victory in 1957, 1958 and 1960. With its single sided swing arm, low centre of gravity due to the horizontal parallel twin engine and twin 18mm Dell'Orto carbs, the Bol d'Or could out pace and out handle many of it's 250cc motorcycle contemporaries, shaming many a rider and being beaten by a 'scooter'. Sadly the company folded in 1962. This particular example, with its beautiful polished aluminium body work and dropped ace style bars was sold by Bonhams in 2011.