Chimera 175

General
Model Designation Letters
Model build time1956-1961
Vehicle Identificiation100001 an up
Bikes Produced116 (documented)
Price248.000 italian Lira
FrameSingle Tube Backbone
Electrical System6V/45W, LiMa Magneti Marelli, Battery 6V 7Ah
Top Speed~110 Km/h
Chassis
Front suspension
Rear suspensionCentral Monoschock
Front wheel tire2.50 x 17 R
Rear wheel tire2.75 x 17 S
Front brakeInternal Expanding 160mm
Rear brakeInternal Expanding 140mm
Rims (Front & Rear)17"
Tire pressure (Front)1.5 Bar
Tire pressure (Rear)2.0 Bar
Dimensions & Weight
Overall length2000 mm
Handlebar width610 mm
Ground clearance
Wheelbase1360 mm
Weight122 kg
Seatstwo persons
Saddle Height
Fuel Tank22 Liters
Fuel Tank Reserve
Engine
Type4-Cycle OHV, Single Cylinder
Bore60
Stroke61
Piston displacement172.4 cc
Horsepower9.25 CV at 6500 1/min
Max. Torque
Gearshift pattern4-Speed
Compression ratio7:1
Lubrication system
Starter systemkick start, left side
CarburetorDell'Orto UB 22 BS 2
ClutchWet, Multiple Plates
Gear ratios
Spark Plug

The Chimera was the first production bike with the aircooled, horizontal single-cylinder four-stroke engine which Aermacchi is most famous for. The engine later was available as 250cc version as well and it was the basis for the 350cc engine which continued until 1974 as well.

The Chimera was designed by Mario Revelli de Beaumont and the engine was constructed by Alfredo Bianchi as technical leader. It was presented on December 1st in 1956 at the Milan motorcycle show. They engine had 175cc and produced 10hp at about 6800 rpm. The bike had a futuristic jet-engine look and was equipped with an almost horizontal monoshock suspension.

The Chimera however was not a success in sales as people still preferred the classic motorcycle design. in 1958 the Chimera was also available as a 250cc version. Today the Chimera is considered an iconic motorcycle for it’s futuristic design and technical features