This type of moped is becoming increasingly rare, especially in good condition.
Released in 1960 to counter the wave of Italian cyclosports, the SP 50 was one of the prettiest mopeds produced by Motobécane.
Of course, it features the large stamped frame of other mopeds, and the classic variator engine without a gearbox, but Motobécane went all out with beautiful cream-sided wheels, a "saddle" style chrome tank, a large two-seater seat, retractable rear footrests for riding with a passenger, flat handlebars, and even the option to position the pedals as footrests rather than "simple moped pedals."
As for the engine, it's a "simple" AV7, but, having been released before the law limiting the speed of 50cc engines to 45 km/h, it benefits from a 14mm carburetor that feeds the small cylinder well and allows this rather heavy machine to flirt with 60/70 km/h on a downhill slope!
It could therefore compete with cyclosports, but more importantly, with Motobécane reliability, you could go much further without needing to "tinker."
This particular model has remained in its original state, and even if some cosmetic touch-ups have been made throughout its life, the goal was only to "restore" and "make it reliable."
This SP is actually an SPR, for "Routière" (Touring), as it has a waterproof chain guard, a sign of a GT moped!
The chrome on the rims, handlebars, and fuel cap have been redone, the main consumables changed, and the brakes serviced.
Most of the work focused on the engine; years of good and loyal service had worn out the cylinder head, the lower seals were leaking, the crankshaft journals were "undersized" (the bearings were floating on them), and the clutch was sticking because the ball races were too worn.
The engine and clutch were completely overhauled, and the 14mm carburetor was also rebuilt with period parts, as there was no question of replacing it with a common Dell'Orto!!!
Reassembly, cleaning, fine-tuning, even nitpicking 🙂 and it is now ready to hit the road with its owner... after a necessary break-in period!!
Some detailed photos of this machine:
a huge two-seater saddle….
and footrests allowing for "duos"
The possibility of locking the pedals in the "footrest" position
flat handlebars allowing for very comfortable riding
Saddle tank...chromed
a superb look
Special, it's written on it!!
Better than photos, here's a short video of the beauty: