1957 One-Off Hybrid – Alpine Prototype / Barn Find

The Story Behind the Machine

This extraordinary motorcycle is a testament to Italian ingenuity and the resourcefulness of post-war mechanics. Born from the harsh realities of life in the Alps above Bergamo, it was built to solve a very specific problem: keeping a motorcycle running reliably at high altitude and through brutal winters. The farmer who commissioned it needed something that wouldn't fail him when the snow came, so a local mechanic created this unique machine using whatever parts he had on hand .

The result is a fascinating hybrid that reads like a who's-who of European motorcycle engineering. The frame and Earles-type front fork come from a BMW R26, the famous German single-cylinder model known for its durability and shaft drive . The rear suspension—with horizontal shocks mounted at the top—is pure Gilera style, while the engine and gearbox are sourced from a 1935 Griffon, type G 507. This Griffon engine is almost identical to the Peugeot P107, a classic French "average man's motorcycle" of the 1930s that earned a reputation for reliability and even saw service with the French Army .

The design choices were purely functional. The unusual exhaust positioning was engineered to channel hot air around the engine block, while the battery mounted above it prevented freezing. Different carburetor settings were experimented with to ensure reliable running at altitude. A shorter final drive ratio, hand-operated gear lever, and thumb throttle made the bike ideally suited for heavy-duty work. This is not a factory showpiece—it is a working tool, born of necessity and built with craftsmanship .

The Bike

This 1957 one-off hybrid is presented as a truly unique piece of motorcycling history—a working prototype from the Italian Alps, built to conquer winter conditions that would defeat ordinary motorcycles.

Condition Overview: The motorcycle is a genuine barn find, presented in its original, un-restored state. It is a complete machine built from carefully selected components:

• Frame: BMW R26, featuring the distinctive Earles-type leading-link front fork

• Engine: 1953 Griffon, type G 507 (350cc side-valve single-cylinder, 3-speed manual)

• Rear Suspension: Gilera-style, with horizontal shock absorbers mounted at the top

• Notable Features: Hand-operated gear lever, thumb throttle, shorter final drive ratio

Key Features:

• One-of-a-kind prototype built for alpine conditions

• BMW R26 frame with iconic Earles fork

• Griffon engine (almost identical to Peugeot P107)

• Gilera-inspired rear suspension

• Ingenious exhaust design for engine warming

• Purpose-built for heavy-duty work at altitude

• Italian craftsmanship and ingenuity

The Opportunity: This motorcycle represents a unique opportunity—not just to own a piece of motorcycling history, but to own a one-of-a-kind piece. While the BMW R26 and Peugeot P107 are relatively common in the classic market, this hybrid is entirely unique. A sympathetic restoration that preserves its character and history would transform it into a truly special machine, a conversation piece and a testament to Italian ingenuity.

Known Issues 

Complete transparency regarding this motorcycle's condition:

• No documents (the bike comes from a private Italian collection)

• Condition is consistent with a working machine, not a showpiece

• Full restoration is required (mechanical and cosmetic)

• Engine and gearbox condition unknown (should be treated as requiring overhaul)

• BMW R26 frame has wear consistent with age and use

• Earles fork should be checked and overhauled

• Electrical system likely needs complete re-wiring

• Brakes and suspension require thorough inspection

• Tires are aged and require replacement

• Rubber components (hoses, gaskets, seals) should be replaced

• Paint and chrome show age-appropriate wear

What's Included

• Motorcycle as pictured

• BMW R26 frame and Earles fork

• Griffon G 507 engine and gearbox

• Gilera-style rear suspension

• Original hand-operated gear lever and thumb throttle

Auction Details

Auction End Date: 01/08/2026 16:00
Inspection Date: appointment
Location: Belgium, Bree

Why Bid?

This is a truly unique opportunity to acquire a one-of-a-kind motorcycle built with Italian craftsmanship. Born from necessity in the Italian Alps, this hybrid machine represents a fascinating chapter in European motorcycle history. With its BMW R26 frame, Griffon engine, and Gilera-inspired suspension, it is a mechanical mosaic that tells a story of ingenuity and resourcefulness.

The simple math: Purchase below market value + sympathetic restoration = a unique, valuable, and historically significant motorcycle. This is not just a restoration project—it is a chance to preserve a piece of Italian alpine history, a working tool from a time when motorcycles were built to survive the harshest conditions.

"Sold as-is, where-is. Good luck and happy bidding!"