Moto Morini · 1963–1976
Moto Morini Corsarino: history and buying advice
The ‘little pirate’: a four-stroke 50 with overhead valves.
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History
After the 1959 Corsaro, Morini came out in 1963 with the Corsarino, the ‘little pirate’. What made it special was that it was a four-stroke, while almost all 50 cc machines were two-strokes. The first versions looked like a moped, with a step-through frame and a three-speed hand change.
After that came real little motorcycles: the ZT, the sporting ZZ and from 1966 Scramblers. In 1965 and 1966 they got a four-speed foot change. Around 1976 it was over. Today the Corsarino is a popular entry model for Morini enthusiasts.
Key data
| Engine | 1 cylinder, four-stroke, overhead valves |
|---|---|
| Capacity | approx. 49 cc |
| Power | ZZ approx. 4.5 hp (claimed) |
| Gearbox | 3 (hand) or 4 (foot) |
| Versions | V, Z, ZT, ZZ, Scrambler |
What to check when buying
- Check which version it is; the moped versions and the motorcycle versions have different papers.
- Check whether it is registered and which licence you need.
- Listen to the valves and check the oil: it is a four-stroke.
- Parts are scarce; ask what has been replaced.
- Many Corsarinos have been tuned. Ask about the original specification.
SourcesMCNews: Moto Morini Corsarino (English)Wikipedia: Moto Morini (English)