1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS

1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS

racing50sItaly

Introduced in 1956, the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS features a 174cc SOHC single engine producing 17hp, establishing itself as a notable racing machine.

Specifications

Engine

Type
SOHC single
Displacement
174 cc
Cylinders
1
Power
17 hp @ 8500 rpm
Torque
13.0 Nm
Compression
—
Bore × Stroke
59.4 × 63.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Dell'Orto carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel single cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
—
Rear Tyre
—
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
140 km/h (87 mph)
¼ Mile
—

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
112 kg (247 lbs)
Wet Weight
122 kg (269 lbs)
Seat Height
760 mm
Wheelbase
1280 mm
Ground Clearance
—
Fuel Capacity
12.0 L

History & Story

MV Agusta's 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS arrived in 1956 as a racing machine designed for the discerning rider. Produced in Italy, it quickly earned recognition as a capable racing machine from the 1950s.

Powering the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS is a 174cc SOHC single producing 17hp. This single-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through Dell'Orto carburetor. A 4-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.

Weighing 112 kg (247 lbs) dry, the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS uses a steel single cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS achieves a claimed top speed of 140 km/h (87 mph). With a fuel capacity of 12.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for racing machine duties. The seat height of 760 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as very difficult, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of MV Agusta motorcycling from 1950s.

Known Issues

  • Parts extremely scarce and expensive
  • Shaft drive maintenance on four-cylinder models
  • Electrical components hard to source
  • Specialist knowledge required for maintenance
  • Period-correct fasteners and hardware hard to find

Fun Facts

  • The 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS was produced in MV Agusta's Italy facilities
  • The 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS featured a steel single cradle frame typical of 1950s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Very difficult
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts

🔧 Find 1956 MV Agusta 175 CSS Parts on eBay Search eBay Motors for parts, accessories and restoration supplies 📖 Haynes Manual for MV Agusta Workshop manuals, service guides and technical references 🛡 Insure Your Classic MV Agusta Specialist classic motorcycle insurance from Hagerty

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