Page 36 - LHR Sept 25.

The Garelli Mosquito: Italy's Ingenious
Insect
Origins
In Italy, engineer Adalberto Garelli had been
experimenting with small two-stroke engines
since before the war. In 1946, his company
released the Garelli Mosquito (Mosquito
38.5), a tiny 38.5cc two-stroke engine designed
to mount over the rear wheel of a bicycle.

Design
The Mosquito was a marvel of simplicity:
· 38.5cc displacement, later upgraded to
48cc.
· Claimed 1 horsepower at 4,500 rpm.

· Mounted on the rear triangle of a bicycle
frame, driving the tyre with a roller.

· Top speed: about 20–25 mph depending
on rider weight and terrain.

· Fuel consumption: approximately 200
miles per gallon — crucial in an era of
scarcity.
Success
The Mosquito became a phenomenon. Licensed