1976 Montesa Cota 348 Malcolm Rathmell Replica Overview

A bit of background on the Cota 348 including how it came about, a few of its unique features and what it's like to ride. From the late 60s through the 70s, when Spain ruled the Trials world, this 198 lb, 306cc, 6-speed torque monster gave Bultaco a run for the championship.

[@JohnDoesGarage]

I have that exact bike, I'm just waiting on when I have time to restore it. I've had it stored for at least twenty years. I will be retiring soon and it is on my list of things to do in order to keep myself busy.

[@wakinossin]

Believe me, when you retire you will have no problem finding things to keep you busy. You'll wonder how you ever had time to work!

[@andrewgibbs5135]

I have just bought the very same model which is a ‘work in progress’ at the moment. I am glad to see that mine has the exact same set of stickers and the translucent mudguards, which I shall protect and restore. As you mention, the riding position is very different to the more modern machines. The idea of the small footpegs were to reduce the risk of snagging on rocks and banks etc. but they do look so odd these days ! Thanks for the video !

[@wakinossin]

I've left the original footpegs on, though on some of my other bikes - like the MAR - I've updated them. I think the Montesa pegs are fine. They are quite high and forward though compared to modern machines. But that's OK, it's just something else to get used to.

[@NickHellings-zq8xt]

I believe Malcolm Rathmall’s signature was on the original Pirelli Tires when they were new.

[@wakinossin]

WOW! I did not know that. Cool.

[@markschafer8275]

I've got 2 78 alpinas that are sequential VIN numbered,a 74 pursang,and fix'n to get a 75 ossa mar...went to pick it up a day ago and its ignition system had a failure,the owner is nice enough to have it repaired before I take ownership..your garage looks busy friend!!!!,,thanks for video

[@wakinossin]

Those are some nice bikes.

[@krupadrum]

Lovely bikes. Which are easier generally to get parts for, Montesa or Ossa? Twin shock models..

[@wakinossin]

They're about the same. Mostly from the UK, sometimes from small shops in Canada and the US. Bultaco parts are a little more available in Canada at least.

[@Team-fabulous]

I had the very bike although mine had alloy mud guards...

[@wakinossin]

I think all 348s came with transluscent plastic guards. The 123s, 172s and 247s had aluminum fenders. Would love to see a photo of yours if so.

[@Team-fabulous]

@@wakinossin my mistake.. Mine was an Ulf Karl's son replica

[@wakinossin]

@@Team-fabulous Ah! Yes, my first trials bike was a '77 UKR as well. Lovely bike and served me well as I got into riding Trials.

[@Team-fabulous]

@@wakinossin I just loved the chain luber where you filled the swing arm with oil and it would drip onto the chain....

[@wakinossin]

@@Team-fabulous Oh yeah, that was neat. And probably environmentally sound too?! lol