Laverda’s 49 Mini Scooter
With Phil Aynsley
The Laverda name conjures up thought of big brawny triples and twins – scooters? Not so much…
Laverda’s 49 Mini scooter
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.
Laverda’s 49 Mini scooter 
Laverda’s 49 Mini scooter
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.
Laverda’s 49 Mini scooter 
Laverda’s 49 Mini scooter
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.
Laverda’s 49 Mini scooter 
Laverda’s 49 Mini scooter
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.
Laverda’s 49 Mini scooter
Output of the 49 Mini was 1.3 hp at 4500 rpm, with a weight of 40 kg and top speed of 40km/h.
Laverda’s 49 Mini scooter
Source: MCNews.com.au