Museu Isern de la Moto

In the vibrant town of Mollet del Vallès, nestled in the Vallès Oriental region of Spain, lies a hidden gem for motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs alike: the Museu Isern de la Moto. This privately-owned museum, established in July 2008 by the passionate Josep Isern upon his retirement, offers a fascinating journey through the rich history of motorcycles, showcasing an impressive array of bikes from various eras and origins.

The History of Museu Isern de la Moto

The museum is housed on the fifth floor of the iconic Edifici Isern, a property owned by the Isern family and formerly home to the Motos Isern commercial establishment since the 1970s. This unique setting adds a layer of historical charm to the museum, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the legacy of motorcycles and the local industry.

A Diverse Collection

The Museu Isern de la Moto boasts an extensive collection of motorcycles, mechanical elements, trophies, photographs, and various documents related to the world of motorcycling. Among the highlights are dedicated spaces for the renowned Mollet brands, Derbi and Ducson, featuring valuable specimens donated by the Rabasa and Solà families, the founders of these esteemed companies.

Visitors can marvel at a wide range of manufacturers, from a 1938 BSA to a 1974 Wankel-DKW, and even a rare 1953 Aleu. The collection also includes models from famous brands like Bultaco, OSSA, Merlin, Ducati, and Moto Guzzi. The museum’s vast exhibition space is meticulously organized into several monographic areas, each offering a deep dive into specific aspects of motorcycle history.

Monographic Spaces

One of the standout sections is dedicated to Jaume Isern i Plans, the father of Josep Isern. This area features bicycles built by Jaume, tools from his workshop, and various related objects, painting a vivid picture of his contributions to the field. Another notable space honors Pere Pi, showcasing an extensive collection of trophies, posters, personal items, and motorcycles used by the multi-champion from Lliçà, including a 1960 Montesa Brío Cross.

The museum also pays tribute to Ot Pi i Isern, the son of Pere Pi and nephew of Josep Isern, with a display of items he used during his world championship-winning biketrial career, such as one of the Monty bikes. The Derbi section is particularly impressive, featuring unique motorcycles that have won World and European Grand Prix championships, including the bike ridden by Ángel Nieto in 1972 and those of Champi Herreros (1989) and Julián Miralles (1987).

The Ducson area showcases a variety of mopeds, Grand Prix motorcycles, engines, advertising posters, and documents, while the Montesa Cota section offers a complete range of models, from the small Cota 25 to the 1980 Cota 349.

Engaging Activities

The Museu Isern de la Moto is not just a static display of historical artifacts; it is a dynamic hub for motorcycle-related activities. The museum frequently hosts talks and open days to celebrate the expansion of its collection or coincide with significant events. It also organizes tributes to defunct Catalan brands, featuring discussions with their former owners or descendants.

One notable event was the tribute to Ducson on April 17, 2010, attended by the Solà brothers, the creators of the historic moped brand. Another memorable occasion took place on March 24, 2012, honoring Mymsa, an old Barcelona brand, with the presence of Jaume and Josep Aragall, sons of the company's founders, and other notable figures in the motorcycle industry.

Other significant events include a tribute to Jaume Pahissa, a renowned sidecar pilot and Derbi technician, on June 9, 2012, and the presentation of Pere Pi's autobiography, No tinc 200 anys, on September 22, 2012. The museum also organized the first Classic Vehicle Market in Mollet del Vallès on May 10, 2014, which drew a large crowd.

The Classic Vehicle Market

One of the most established events organized by the museum is the Classic Vehicle Market of Mollet. The second edition of this event took place on the weekend of June 13-14, 2015, at the Pla de les Pruneres. This edition focused on the historical significance of the motorcycle industry in Mollet and featured an exhibition dedicated to the 24 Hours of Montjuïc, showcasing historical documents and vehicles, and attended by many of the competition's past winners.

The third edition, held on May 7, 2016, paid tribute to former Catalan motocross riders, while the fourth edition took place on April 29, 2017, continuing the tradition of celebrating the rich heritage of motorcycles in the region.

In conclusion, the Museu Isern de la Moto is more than just a museum; it is a vibrant testament to the history and culture of motorcycling in Mollet del Vallès and beyond. Whether you are a dedicated motorcycle enthusiast or a casual visitor, the museum offers a captivating and educational experience that celebrates the legacy of this thrilling and influential mode of transportation. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this remarkable collection and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of motorcycles!