Montesa developed a prototype of the Cota 348 to compete in the 1975 Scottish Six Days Trial, and Malcolm Rathmell rode it to a second place finish. Rathmell was an accomplished trials rider who won the World Championship in 1974 and the British Trials Championship 6 times in a 10 year period, and the 348 was developed with him as a consultant. Due to Rathmell’s success in competition with the 348, Montesa offered the model as a “Rathmell Replica” that was adorned with his signature on the side.
Malcom went on to start a mail order business in trails motorcycles, which has since evolved into Malcolm Rathmell Sport Limited, an importer of Sherco motorcycles. The 348 was considered by some to be a standard-setter in ’76. It featured a 306cc air-cooled single that produced about 16 horsepower.
This bike (VIN: 51M 4528) has 4,528 miles and it’s said to run and look great. It’s equipped with the optional fork-mounted speedometer and the seller claims it’s ready for you to compete in vintage trials or to just enjoy some tough off-roading. Find this Cota 348 for sale here on Craigslist in Parkesburg, Pennsylvania for $1,500.
This bike-uriousity brought to you by David N!