Another Old Italian: The Quixotic Mission to Rescue and Restore Some Old and Unloved Motorcycles

Synopsis: In what might be called an “Odyssey in search of oddities” Another Old Italian tells the ongoing tale of the author’s compulsion for tracking down, rescuing and restoring old, obscure and unloved Italian motorcycles. Bypassing the popular, desirable and iconic marques and models, the bikes that pique Gary L. Edgar’s interest are those machines that lie forgotten and unwanted, festering away under tarpaulins in dark corners of sheds and barns. These bikes are unlikely to ever realise a handsome financial return, no matter how well they may be restored, but according to the author’s philosophy that’s not the point. Fondly quoting an Italian friend (who is also a motorcycle restorer) Gary holds to the mantra “this is a thing we must do from the heart”. Get set for a ride down the rocky road of restoration as a 1972 Benelli Enduro 175 and a 1969 Garelli Rex KL125 are saved from an ignominious end and given a glittering new life. From Italy to the United States to Australia it’s a long road, but it’s here in the workshops of Gary’s gang of specialists that the road unfolds with its trials, tribulations, triumphs and of course laughs. So, jump in the saddle and come along for the ride. About the Author: Gary L. Edgar lives in Brisbane, Australia. Formerly a freelance copy/scriptwriter in the advertising and film industries he is now retired and indulges his passion for restoring old motorcycles. The story of one such restoration was told in his previous book A Tin of Tomatoes and a Tiny Scooter while abridged stories of the restoration of the two motorcycles in this book have appeared in various motorcycle magazines. View Less