1965 Aermacchi Racers

1965 AERMACCHI RACERS

CARLO PERELLI

THERE IS NOTHING true in the British press rumors that Aermacchi would build a new type racing machine such as a 250, 350 or 500cc double overhead cam. Signor Alfredo Bianchi, Aermacchi’s technical director, realizing that it is more and more difficult to squeeze power from the well known 250 and 350 “Golden Wing” pushrod racers, had some new ideas in mind, especially regarding a 250 twin OHC. But the Harley-Davidson bosses, who practically control the Italian factory, were contrary to producing racing models different from the series ones, so everything had to be put aside.

The 1965 Golden Wing 250 and 350 Aermacchis will therefore appear in the coming season with only slight modifications to improve reliability, speed and maintenance. A dry-type clutch replaces the earlier wet-type unit, and a sturdier five-speed gearbox has been fitted. Maximum power is 30 bhp at the rear wheel at 10,000 rpm for the 72x61 =248cc model and 33 bhp at 8000 rpm for the 74x80= 347cc model. Not bad for pushrods.

Racing activity will be much the same as in past years, with Gilberto Milani and Renzo Pasolini participating as workstesters in the most important events in Italy and abroad. Alberto Pagani, however, will ride a new machine built by himself with a tubular space frame fitted with “normal” Golden Wing engines.