1945 Sertum Militar 500 (D323)

The Sertum Militar is an excellent example of Italian craftsmanship and rugged design from the WWII era. This 1945 military-issue Sertum was meticulously restored by a marque specialist two years ago in its original Italian Army trim. Presents with ample patina as a very sympathetic restoration in keeping with the original role of this machine as a utilitarian go-anywhere, do-anything motorcycle. Its 499cc side valve unit construction engine producing 12 HP and a 4-speed gearbox are housed in a robust frame with especially strong top and front tubes for hanging military equipment. The engine castings are beautiful and of very high quality, while the chassis features girder fork and a swingarm rear suspension. A rare and special military motorcycle with an interesting origin.

The restoration was faithful to the original specification and very complete. The bodywork, chassis and the engine and gearbox were rebuilt. New tires were fitted. The bike was completely repainted in the official Sertum military green. Suspension is by a stout girder fork with a steering damper and rear swingarm with friction damping. A rather sporty fuel tank displays a Sertum decal and rubber knee pads. A wide modest rise handlebar provides leverage for confident handling and all controls are in good working order, A genuine Giuliari solo seat is comfortably sprung. Steel fenders are deeply valanced. A convenient lever actuates an exhaust damper remotely to quiet the tone from the single exhaust. The overall result shows appropriate patina on the engine and mechanical components and a well done, but not over restored appearance.

MODEL HISTORY

Founded in Milan, Italy, in the 1920s, engineer Fausto Alberti’s Sertum factory produced its first motorcycle – a 175cc side-valve single-cylinder four-stroke – in 1924. Sertum was one of the five major Italian pre-war motorcycle manufacturers. Noted for their quality and design features, Sertum models became popular as endurance trials mounts due to their reliability and robust construction. They won many gold medals in the ISDT: 5 in 1939, and 3 in 1949. This excellent off-road performance led to the attention of the Italian military and Militar 500 became the model of choice for the Italian army, due to its excellent reliability. This military issue Sertum was one of the rugged 500cc side valve models that were produced up until 1948. Despite a reputation for high quality and a move to a larger, more modern factory in 1950, the civilian bikes never really captured the public imagination and the relocation proved a step too far, production grinding to a halt in 1952.

A very rare motorcycle in the USA and a real find for the enthusiastic collectors of classic war and military motorbikes. This machine is sure to cause a stir on the burgeoning military

re-enactment scene and, once recommissioned after long-term display in Italy, would be ideal for anyone wishing to re-create the raid on Monte Cassino or the North Africa campaign.

1945 Sertum Militar 500

#D323

Price On Request

Make: Sertum

Year: 1945

Displacement: 499cc

Inventory number: D323

ENGINE NUMBER : 4776M

FRAME NUMBER : 10061