OSSA occupies a privileged place, and within its legacy, there is a model that shines with its own light. The OSSA MAR, a motorcycle that not only represented the highest technical level of its time, but also became a symbol of precision, beauty and efficiency in complicated areas.
The birth of the SEA: a perfect alliance
At the end of the 1960s, OSSA was looking to consolidate its position in the world of international trials. To do so, it teamed up with one of the best riders of the time: the British Mick Andrews, a benchmark of balance, technique and control on the bike.
As a result of this collaboration, the OSSA MAR was born, a model designed side by side between the engineers of the Barcelona factory and Andrews himself. The goal was clear: to create the perfect trial bike.
Its evolution was constant, passing through models such as the Sherpa T 49, Sherpa T 80, Sherpa T 91, Sherpa T 125, Sherpa T 250, Sherpa T 350, Sherpa T 199A and 199B. Each one more refined, but without losing the original soul: to dominate the terrain without fighting against the bike.
What does MAR mean?
M.A.R. stands for Mick Andrews Replica. This designation made official what everyone knew: the bike was directly inspired by the style and needs of its star rider.
The result was a machine that combined British elegance and Spanish engineering, with a sober design, finished in its characteristic OSSA green, and an epoch-making performance.
A champion in the right hands
With the OSSA MAR, Mick Andrews achieved important victories in the 1970s, including several Scottish Six Days Trials (SSDT), one of the toughest and most prestigious races in the world. But its success was not limited to him: the MAR was a popular bike with enthusiasts and riders alike. It was reliable, competitive and much more affordable than other imported bikes.
Most outstanding versions
First series (1971): slim lines, slim tank, smooth engine.
Second series (1973): improvements in chassis, reinforcements and new colors.
Third series (1975-76): more robust, redesigned details, higher sales.
MAR evolved without losing its essence, always seeking a balance between tradition and technical improvement.
A collector's item
Today, the OSSA MAR is one of the most sought after classic trial bikes by collectors and restorers. Its design, history and performance make it a true vintage gem. In addition, there is a good availability of spare parts, thanks to the loyal community that surrounds OSSA and classic trials.
Restoring an OSSA MAR is not only a mechanical project, it is a revival of a golden age of Spanish trial.