Moto Rumi
An Italian Masterpiece
Moto Rumi
The Tesi was in development for seven years, during which time five prototypes were built. The model departed from conventional motorcycle design in respect of the suspension and steering arrangement which in turn resulted in an unusual frame design. Two U shaped aluminium frame members encompassed the engine and provided mounting points for the front and rear swinging arms. The steering was effected by a hub centre system. The two elements negated the inherent problem with telescopic forks; that of the geometry changing as the forks compress.
The first series of production machines, announced during 1990, utilised a Ducati 851 engine. However, after 127 of the first series were built a revised version was released fitted with the later 904cc Ducati twin. Only 20 examples of the Tesi 1D 904 were produced before it was in turn superseded by the Tesi 1D SR in 1992. It should be noted the 1D 904 was originally typed the SR but this is not often used in order to prevent confusion between it and the 1D SR.
Sources: H&H Classic Auctions; Bill Irwin of thebikemuseum.com.
