Itom Astor Esperia Sport 50cc – 1960
Manufacturer Overview:
- Manufacturer: Itom (Industria Torinese Meccanica)
- Country: Italy
- Founded: 1944
- Specialization: Known for producing high-quality small-capacity motorcycles, Itom was a leader in the 50cc racing and commuter market during the 1950s and 1960s. Their motorcycles were renowned for their performance and racing capabilities.
Specifications:
- Engine: 50cc, single-cylinder, 2-stroke engine
- Power Output: Approximately 4-5 HP
- Top Speed: Around 70-80 km/h (43-50 mph)
- Transmission: 3-speed manual gearbox (upgraded to 4-speed in later versions)
- Cooling System: Air-cooled
- Weight: Approximately 60 kg (132 lbs)
- Brakes: Drum brakes front and rear
- Suspension: Front telescopic forks, rear twin-shock swingarm
- Frame: Tubular steel with sporty aesthetics
Design:
- Youthful Racer Design: The Itom Astor Esperia Sport 50cc was designed with a sporty look, targeting young riders and racers. Its lightweight build and agility made it an ideal choice for those looking to enter competitive racing or ride a high-performance road bike.
- Streamlined Aesthetics: With its sleek fuel tank, low-slung handlebars, and slim profile, the bike followed the trend of Italian motorcycles that emphasized aerodynamics and style. The design was not only visually appealing but also functional, contributing to better speed and control.
- Racing DNA: The Esperia Sport shared many design elements with other racing models in the Itom lineup, reflecting the company’s focus on performance even in small-displacement motorcycles.
Legacy:
- Racing Excellence: The Itom Astor Esperia Sport 50cc was part of Itom’s racing legacy. During the late 1950s and early 1960s, Itom dominated the 50cc racing class, and the Astor Esperia Sport was one of the standout models. It was widely used in competitive races across Europe, particularly in Italy.
- Icon of the 50cc Class: The bike was designed for entry-level racers and became a staple of 50cc competitions. Its light weight and advanced engineering made it competitive against other small-displacement motorcycles.
- Symbol of Youth Independence: During the 1960s, small-displacement motorcycles became popular among young people in Europe as affordable and stylish means of transport. The Esperia Sport was emblematic of this youth movement, combining performance with Italian flair.
- A Cult Classic: Today, the Astor Esperia Sport is a cult classic among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts, particularly those who collect 50cc race bikes. Its racing heritage, combined with Italian craftsmanship, makes it a prized possession.
Most Interesting and Important Facts:
- Advanced for Its Time: Despite being only 50cc, the Itom Astor Esperia Sport was ahead of its time in terms of engineering. Itom’s commitment to squeezing the best possible performance out of a small engine made it a formidable competitor in the racing world.
- Influence on 50cc Racing: The Esperia Sport contributed to Itom’s reputation as a powerhouse in 50cc racing. Itom’s designs pushed the boundaries of what small-capacity motorcycles could achieve, influencing other manufacturers to take the 50cc class seriously.
- Entry into Racing: The Astor Esperia Sport became the entry point for many amateur racers, giving young riders the opportunity to experience competitive motorcycling on an affordable and accessible platform.
- Collectible Rarity: Like many small-displacement motorcycles from the 1960s, surviving examples of the Itom Astor Esperia Sport are rare, especially in original or well-preserved condition. The bikes are now highly sought after by collectors and often featured in vintage racing events.
The Itom Astor Esperia Sport 50cc (1960) is a remarkable example of how a small motorcycle can leave a lasting impact on the racing world and the motorcycling community at large. Its performance, style, and legacy as a racing machine have made it a cherished piece of motorcycle history.