FB Mondial · 1956–1958
FB Mondial 175 overhead camshaft: history and buying advice
Mondial’s finest road bikes: 175 cc singles with a chain-driven camshaft.
History
In 1956 came the 175 Turismo Veloce (TV), with a chain-driven overhead camshaft, four gears and about 14 hp. It reached 110 km/h. The same year came the Sport, with a hotter camshaft, bigger valves, a bigger carburettor and a different frame.
In 1957 the Gran Sport followed, built in very small numbers for the Italian Formula 3 road races. It had a different bore and stroke (65 × 52.5 mm instead of 60 × 62 mm). All three disappeared in 1958, because Mondial switched to cheaper overhead-valve models.
Key data
| Engine | 1 cylinder, overhead camshaft (chain), 175 cc |
|---|---|
| Bore × stroke | 60 × 62 mm; Gran Sport 65 × 52.5 mm |
| Power | TV: approx. 14 hp |
| Top speed | TV: approx. 110 km/h |
| Gears | 4 |
| Years | 1956–1958 |
What to check when buying
- Check which version it is; a Gran Sport is much rarer and more expensive.
- Listen to the cam chain: a rattling chain or tensioner needs checking.
- Check engine and frame numbers; conversions from Sport to Gran Sport occur.
- Parts are scarce; work with a club.
SourcesMCNews: Mondial 175 OHC (English)Cybermotorcycle: Mondial (English)