The Ascari Collection: the hidden gem of Maserati’s two-wheeled legacy
Maserati has always been synonymous with luxury cars, but few know that, for a brief yet intense period between the 1950s and 1960s, the brand shone not only on four wheels but also in the world of two wheels.
Maserati motorcycles were one of the many symbols of the economic miracle that characterized post-war Italy. Objects that perfectly combined elegance and performance with unmistakable design: sleek lines, powerful engines, and artisanal attention to detail. These motorcycles became highly sought-after by enthusiasts and riders alike. Today, this extraordinary legacy lives on in the “Ascari Gallery,” a unique and private collection housed in Modena at the La Corte dei Sogni annex.
Maserati’s motorcycle adventure began in 1953 with the acquisition of the Bologna-based Italmoto, marking the start of a vast production range, from lightweight and manageable models like the 125cc to the more powerful 250cc four-stroke motorcycles. Thanks to the prestige of the Maserati name, these bikes achieved great success, conquering both domestic and international markets, and participating in competitions like the Motogiro d’Italia.
However, during those years, the rise of the automobile, which became the ultimate means of transportation, harmed the two-wheeled vehicle market. As a result, despite the excellent quality and great appeal of these bikes, Maserati’s motorcycle division was forced to shut down in the early 1960s.
Thus, the decade that brought Maserati motorcycles to the streets was short – just 10 years. Today, we can tell this story thanks to the passion and dedication of collectors like Andrea Ascari, who, through these vehicles, share a rich historical period for the entire country, a chapter of the Motor Valley that is still little known to many.
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