A brief history of Gilera scooters
Gilera was founded by Giuseppe Gilera in Milan, Italy, in 1909 and the first machine he produced had a 317cc overhead-valve engine and a belt drive. Twenty-six years later in 1935, the manufacturer acquired rights to the Rondine four-cylinder engine¸ which was the basis of its racing motorcycles for nearly 40 years. Around this time, Gilera also developed a range of four-stroke machines ranging from 100-500cc. The most famous of these was the 1939 Saturno.
After World War II, Gilera dominated Grand Prix motorcycle racing, achieving an impressive record of six 500cc world championship titles in eight years. The post war machines were based on four-stroke singles and parallel twins, such as the infamous San Remo, which takes its name from its victorious debut at the 1947 Ospedaletti Grand Prix near the Italian city. Gilera himself also rode these race machines and broke many records. However, the company was forced to quit racing in 1957 after a downturn in motorcycle sales due to the growing popularity of cars.
In 1969, Gilera was bought by the Piaggio Group and it began to develop new 49-125cc two-stroke bikes as well as the original four-stoke range. New sports-focussed Gilera models were released by Piaggio in 1987, before the company made its return to Grand Prix racing in 1992.
Unfortunately, Piaggio unexpectedly closed the Gilera factory at Arcore in the Lombardy region in 1993.
Gilera’s range of scooters
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The Runner
The Runner is tipped as the ultimate street scooter and an ideal choice if you’re new to two wheels. Its race-inspired graphics and superb performance will really guarantee you stand out from the crowd in any urban environment!
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Runner 50 SP
With two-tone livery, sporty styling, a double headlight and chrome-tipped handlebars, the Gilera Runner 50 SP has real street presence. Aside from its stunning looks, the 50cc scooter also lives up to its sporty image with excellent acceleration and durability.
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Runner ST 125
The Gilera Runner ST 125 is powered by a liquid-cooled four-stroke engine for excellent performance and reliability. The scooter also comes complete with anti-theft immobiliser, cool dashboard display, two-tone racing styling and a taller windscreen.
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Runner ST 200
Scooter riders looking for the ultimate thrill need look no further than the 198cc Gilera Runner ST 200. The cutting-edge four-stroke, single-cylinder LEADER engine guarantees excellent performance, sheer power and acceleration and should put a smile on your face during the daily commute.
For the current range of Gilera scooters, please visit the Gilera Website or purchase Gilera scooters and accessories online.
How Bennetts provides motorcycle insurance for Gilera owners
We don’t just insure motorcycles – we are also specialists in providing competitive scooter insurance. Our experienced advisors work closely with our panel of insurers to ensure that you get our best quote to suit you and your needs.
Affordability of the insurance for your Gilera scooter will be a key concern, so you’ll want to know that your pride and joy is fully protected, by an insurer you can trust. Subject to conditions and age restrictions, your Gilera scooter policy will also cover you for riding other motorcycles as well as riding anywhere in the European Union for up to 90 days in a single trip.
Getting an insurance quote for your Gilera scooter couldn’t be easier. We search our panel of insurers to find you our best price for the cover you need.
Simply complete our online form or call our dedicated customer service team on 0330 018 7990, who are on hand to find our best deal for you.
Sources of interest for Gilera owners and fans
Gilera Official Website – everything from a dealer locator to latest news and links to Gilera’s customer service team.
Gilera Scooter & Accessories – buy your Gilera scooter and accessories direct from the UK distributor. All new scooters come with a two-year warranty and one-year roadside assistance.
Gilera Saturno Scooters – only 6,000 Gilera Saturno scooters were produced between 1946 and 1958 but they enjoy a huge cult following today. This site is one fan’s salute to the model and features a comprehensive history and image gallery.
