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Linto 500
The Linto 500 was brought into being through the initiative of
Lino Tonti. This engineer from the Romagna district of Italy had already
designed special Grand Prix and record motorcycles. The most famous one was the
Bianchi 350-500 two-cylinder that Remo Venturi raced.
The Linto 500 was the result of joining together two Aermacchi 250
single-cylinder horizontal engines, both four-stroke models with rod-and-rocker
distribution. These engines were originally earmarked for racers, especially the
Ala d'Oro type.
Lino Tonti's prototype was ready for racing in 1968. In tests the two-cylinder
generated 61 h.p. at 9,800 r-P-m., more than the once-official Nortons and
Matchlesses that were still the best choice for private racers in the
Continental Circus. Alberto Pagani drove the Linto 500 to second Place in the
East German Grand Prix.
The vehicle's fine international performances convinced many
British racers to opt for the Italian two-cylinder. In 1969 the Linto was ridden
by such fine racers as the Australian John Dodds and the Swiss Gyula Marzowsky,
the Australian Jack Find-lay, and, of course, Alberto Pagani. Helped by the
withdrawal of MV Agusta, Pagani won his first world championship race at that
year's Italian Grand Prix.
Motorcycle: Linto 500 Manufacturer: Lino Tonti Type: Racing
Year: 1969
Engine: Linto two-cylinder, four-stroke, with overhead valve distribution, rod
and rocker. Displacement 496.7 cc. (72 mm. x 61 mm.)
Cooling: Air
Transmission: Six-speed block
Power: 65 h.p. at 10,000 r.p.m.
Maximum speed: Over 150 m.p.h.
Chassis: Open above, tubular, motor suspended; front and rear, telescopic
suspension
Brakes: Front, central drum, four shoes, four-cam; rear, central drum, double
cam
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