Gilera CBA
The Gilera CBA is a moped produced by the Italian manufacturer Gilera from 1977 to 1989. In the North American market it was sold by the American division of Piaggio, the "Vespa of America Corporation", as Piaggio Vespa Grande. History. The name CBA is the abbreviation of italian "Ciclomotore bitubo automatico" (translated as Automatic twin-tube moped). Like the Piaggio Si, the Ciao and many other mopeds of the time, it was equipped with pedals and a two-stroke engine cooled air of 49 cm³ with lateral feed on the crankcase, hooked down to the frame with the  cylinder arranged horizontally. It was joined by the Gilera CB1 model which was equipped with 4-speed gearbox, vertical cylinder in chromed aluminum, crank start and the classic chain transmission. The very robust CB1 engine was derived from the engines of the cross and trial models. The CBA, on the other hand, shared all the mechanics (engine and transmission system, wheel size and brake mechanics) of all the other contemporary mopeds of the same family (Ciao, Si, Boxer, Bravo). Structured in such a way as to reduce space, the tank was obtained inside the frame itself, which also guaranteed strength  and a "design" innovative and lean due to the designer Paolo Martin. Likewise, this design allowed for a front storage space with a flap, anchored to the frame under the steering head and accessible from the space between the frame and the front wheel. In addition to the pedals, it also had two folding footrests, placed in the lower part of this storage compartment. All versions were available in single speed or with variator. Versions. First Series (1977-82). Easily recognizable by the fuel cap under the handlebar. The stock spoked wheels could be replaced by optional alloy wheels. The  saddle could be fixed single-seater or long and foldable. Second Series (1982-87). It differs from the previous one for the long saddle with a more modern shape with storage compartment and the fuel cap under it, the shape of the plastics, the standard alloy wheels. Small storage under the horn. Chrome headlight body and muffler available as optional. Super Sport (1987-89). It differs from the previous model for the small fairing that surrounds the light, the plastic under the saddle with number plate and various painted details.