Gilera Motorcycles

Today in Motorcycle History

Elmeca-Gilera Motorcycles

A Brief History of the Marque

Manufactured by Elettro Meccanica Cafasse, 1973-1978

The brand was derived from the union of Gilera and Elmeca.

In 1972, Gilera entered the off-road world with two two-strokes of 50cc and 125cc. Despite the many successes, in 1974 Piaggio stopped production of a series of new competition models.

In 1973 the basis for the merger of the two companies was established and the Elmeca marque was created. By 1976 annual sales were in the vicinity of six hundred motorcycles.

Towards the end of 1976, due to increased competition from engines of other companies, sales began to decline and competition results were not forthcoming.

At the 1977 Motosalone in Milan a completely updated range was presented featuring considerably improved engines. The power unit of the 125 was an air-cooled two-stroke delivering 23.5 HP at 10000 rpm. The production of Elmeca 125cc motocross and enduro machines continued until 1978.

Sources: MC Storico Conti et al



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