Laverda’s 49 Mini Scooter
With Phil Aynsley
The Laverda name conjures up thought of big brawny triples and twins – scooters? Not so much…
![PA LaverdaMiniScooter PA LaverdaMiniScooter](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/PA-LaverdaMiniScooter-001-1024x689.jpg)
However as a result of changes to the Italian highway code in 1959 (which saw the requirement for mopeds to have pedals abolished, while letting them be used without number plates or a driving licence, with a maximum speed of 40 km/h), Laverda designed a scooter to compete with Vespa and Lambretta.
![PA LaverdaMiniScooter PA LaverdaMiniScooter](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/PA-LaverdaMiniScooter-009-739x1024.jpg)
![PA LaverdaMiniScooter PA LaverdaMiniScooter](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/PA-LaverdaMiniScooter-003-1024x683.jpg)
Production of the 49 Mini started in 1960 with the single seat machine using a 48.9cc OHV four-stroke motor that used a cast iron barrel fitted with an alloy cylinder head.
![PA LaverdaMiniScooter PA LaverdaMiniScooter](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/PA-LaverdaMiniScooter-007-1024x683.jpg)
![PA LaverdaMiniScooter PA LaverdaMiniScooter](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/PA-LaverdaMiniScooter-006-1024x817.jpg)
A two-speed gearbox was fitted. Flywheel magneto ignition was employed and a Dell’Orto carburettor was fed by a four-litre fuel tank positioned under the seat.
![PA LaverdaMiniScooter PA LaverdaMiniScooter](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/PA-LaverdaMiniScooter-005-1024x1007.jpg)
![PA LaverdaMiniScooter PA LaverdaMiniScooter](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/PA-LaverdaMiniScooter-008-683x1024.jpg)
In 1962 new versions fitted with a 50cc or 60cc motor, three-speed gearbox and a lengthened seat were introduced. These were also sold in Spain as the Montesa Micro Scooter.
![PA LaverdaMiniScooter PA LaverdaMiniScooter](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/PA-LaverdaMiniScooter-004-1024x683.jpg)
Output of the 49 Mini was 1.3 hp at 4500 rpm, with a weight of 40 kg and top speed of 40km/h.
![PA LaverdaMiniScooter PA LaverdaMiniScooter](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/PA-LaverdaMiniScooter-002-1024x673.jpg)