The Garelli Basic was a simply built mofa made by the Italian firm from 1982 to 1987. It was the cheapest way into the range: one proven 49 cc two-stroke engine, a single-speed automatic gearbox and pedals, with no sporting version at all.
Garelli Basic at a glance
| Maker | Garelli, Italy |
|---|---|
| Production | 1982–1987 |
| Type | mofa, pedal start |
| Engine | 49 cc horizontal two-stroke single |
| Engine source | the unit already used in the Noi and Katia |
| Gearbox | automatic, single speed |
| Starting | pedals |
| Versions | one only, no sport or higher-powered variant |
| Replaced by | Garelli Gary, 1987 |
Based on one source (German Wikipedia). No free photographs of the Basic are available.
History of the Garelli Basic
A cheap entry model
The Basic was Garelli’s answer to a growing demand for inexpensive transport in an increasingly saturated market. For it the firm used the proven horizontal 49 cc two-stroke engine that had already served in the Noi and Katia series, so the mechanical side needed no new development.
Simplified to the minimum
The mofa came only with an automatic gearbox and pedal starting. Technically it leaned heavily on existing models, but it was distinguished by simplified equipment and low production costs, which is exactly what its buyers wanted: a light, low-maintenance machine for town use. In 1987 the more modern Gary replaced it.
Design and features
- Proven engine: the 49 cc horizontal two-stroke already used in the Noi and Katia.
- Simple to use: automatic gearbox and pedals, no clutch lever and no gears to change.
- Low cost: simplified equipment kept the price down for a machine aimed at town riders.
- No sport version: Garelli never offered a faster or more powerful Basic.
Garelli Basic versions
- Basic mofa: the only version, with pedal starting and automatic transmission.
- No sport model: the range was not extended upwards.
- Successor: the Garelli Gary took over in 1987.
The Basic used the engine of the Garelli Noi, and it sat below the better-known Garelli Gulp in the range. More mopeds are in the Garelli collection.
Video: 1984 Garelli Basic
Video on YouTube.
Sources
- Garelli Basic, German Wikipedia: production years, engine, equipment, successor
