1942 Gilera Mercurio

, Italy. The prototype was the LTE model with its L-head, 499-cc, 10-h.p. motor. A cargo platform with wooden sideboards was affixed to the motorcycle frame right behind the driver seat. This modification featured a cardan drive and all-metal wheels. The transmission had 4 speeds with a reverse. Almost 1,000 copies were produced for the Italian Army (July 1943), which operated them for only 2 months, until Italy withdrew from the war. After returning to Italy, they were used by the ISR (Italian Social Republic). #500cc #ww2 #worldwar2 #gilera #mercurio #italian #italianbikes #history #motorcycle #motorrad #instabike #instamoto #rarebikes #vintage #vintagemotorcycle #antique #retro #trike #tricycle #military #italianstyle #italianarmy #engine #menstyle #truck #1940s #1942 #motocarro #3wheeler