Moto Morini Corsaro 125 and 150: history and buying advice

Moto Morini · 1959–1975

Moto Morini Corsaro 125 and 150: history and buying advice

Fast, light overhead-valve bike.

Nederlandse versie

Moto Morini 125 Corsaro from 1964
Moto Morini 125 Corsaro from 1964. Photo: Wikimedia Commons, free licence; author and licence are on that page.

History

Alfonso Morini had already won the Italian Grand Prix in 1927. The Corsaro 125 came in 1959, with an engine derived from the Sbarazzino. A long series followed: Corsaro Veloce (1961), 150 Turismo (1964), Gran Turismo and Regolarità (1965), Super Sport and Sport Lusso (1969), Country (1971) and Special (until 1975).

The Regolarità was successful in reliability trials until 1972. The road versions got a five-speed gearbox around 1969–1970.

Key data

Engine1 cylinder, overhead valves (OHV)
Bore × stroke56 × 50 mm, 123 cc (125)
Powerapprox. 7.5 hp at 8000 rpm · Veloce 9 hp
CarburettorDell'Orto ME 18 BS
Gearboxfour, later five gears
Weightapprox. 87 kg

What to check when buying

  • Which version? Veloce, Super Sport and Regolarità are worth more; check that against the papers.
  • Small engine with high revs: listen for valve rattle and check that it does not smoke.
  • Regolarità: look for signs of off-road use on frame and suspension.
  • Ask about original parts such as the exhaust and tank; they are hard to find.
  • A fun, affordable way into classic Italians.

← Back to all motorcycles and guides