1968 Benelli Wards Riverside on 2040-motos

This is a very clean 1968 Wards Riverside 250. Originally purchased at Montgomery Wards in Farmington, Michigan. It has fantastic patina and is absolutely original. Paint and pinstriping are strong. It does have the usual very small dents and scratches here and there simply due to its age. All decals are original and intact. Seat is original and in fantastic shape. The bike starts easy and runs strong. Headlight, taillight, and brake light function as they should. It is 95%+ original down the the Pirelli tires, which are still soft and very usable, no dry rot whatsoever. The only modifications and replacement parts are reproduction rider foot pegs, tail light lens, and M style Emgo handlebars with corresponding Emgo perches/levers. Grips are original. Also, with the bars I fitted a second new old stock handlebar clamp in reverse as a riser so the flat profile of M bars can sit level and clear the tops of the forks. The only 'damage' to the bike is that there is pitting around the battery area from a battery leaking acid at some point, the horn was removed by the previous owner but is included (have not verified function), and finally the front rim has two dents on the left side. This is not a high speed bike so the only time I've felt the affects of this are at nearly flat out (about 60-65mph). Being tube type rims this should have no affect on safety. However it should be able to be fixed by a competent rim shop without disassembly. It is a four speed bike with a one up (back) three down (forward) shift pattern. The battery works but it should be replaced with a proper brand (yuasa) and larger battery to fit the tray. The original battery strap is missing. The original handlebars are included. The last photo is for reference only, the red bike is not included in the auction, already sold. This is a fantastic machine and I would love to keep it but unfortunately I don't have the space anymore. The bike has a clear title. Buyer is responsible for pickup or arranging shipping. Deposit required within 48 hours of end of auction. Any further questions please don't hesitate to ask.