Capriolo

With Phil Aynsley

Capriolo was the motorcycle division of the famous Italian aircraft manufacturer Caproni (and named after the local alpine deer).

When Italy was barred from producing aircraft after WW II, Count Caproni turned to motorcycles (as did Aermacchi). In fact among their first projects was producing the frame for the first Ducati motorcycle, the 60.

The 75 was introduced in 1951 and production continued until 1958.

This 75 Normale is the second version (circa. 1957) of the 75, which featured revised engine parts (mainly the clutch) and hydraulic rear shocks in place of the earlier friction damper types. The front forks were also updated.

The motor was unusual in having a longitudinally mounted crankshaft with the flywheel at the front. To complete the weirdness a face-cam system was used instead of a normal lobe cam.

Output was 3.5hp at 6000rpm and a pressed steel frame which encompassed the tank was yet another unusual feature.

With Count Caproni’s death in 1957 the company was reorganised and renamed Aeromere (Areo Meccanica Regionale).

A new line of bikes was then designed including a new 75. Capriolo was taken over by Laverda in 1964.

Being an Italian company, of course a 75 Sport was soon introduced (1952). It made 4.5hp at 7,500rpm.