Too late for 2-Stroke Tuesday, but just in time for the ongoing 2-Stroke Revolution taking place in the U.S. marketplace this summer, the 2027 Fantic XE300 smokers are here in the U.S. commencing with Dealer deliveries this month. “This evolution of the XE platform is set to lead the 2-stroke revolution,” quips importer Mark Berg. “Power, price point and product positioning… This is what we have been waiting for.”
According to Berg, the XE300 is one of the first major Enduro models introduced under Fantic’s new Evolution Series philosophy—an approach focused on meaningful technical updates when they are proven, mature, and ready to deliver a real performance advantage. An updated 300cc Minarelli 2-stroke with dual-injector indirect fuel injection is at the heart of this evolutionary edition.
More than a re-spec on the spark plug, powerplant highlights include:
• New cylinder head geometry with revised compression ratio and squish
• New expansion chamber designed to improve low-to-mid RPM torque
• Revised engine timing focused on stronger low-to-mid-range response, improved
control, and smoother power delivery
• Updated cylinder design featuring:
— Revised cylinder height
— Optimized transfer ports
— Optimized exhaust ports
— Increased reed valve block distance for more efficient engine breathing
But it is just a Yamaha, right? Not really. Yamaha did buy the Italian 2-Stroke specialists in 2002, but Motori Minarelli’s roots go back to 1951 (see sidebar). In 2020, Fantic purchased the Motori Minarelli engine manufacturing plant in Italy from Yamaha. The Italian facility had been a subsidiary of Yamaha Motor Europe and primarily produced two-stroke engines, but it now belongs solely to Fantic. Between this facility and its headquarters in Santa Maria Di Sala (VE), Italy, Fantic Motor is independently owned and operated.
Berg suggests now is the time to join the Fantic Motor dealer network to get the bike that is all the buzz this summer. “With a brand known for innovation and passion, you’ll stand out in a growing market and attract riders looking for Italian moto flair and craftsmanship.”
Dealers apply here:
https://www.cpd-usa.com/dealer-inquiry
sidebar
A HISTORY OF ENGINES SINCE 1951
Motori Minarelli roots go back to 1951 when F.B.M. (Fabbrica Bolognese Motocicli) was launched by Vittorio Minarelli and Franco Morini. The original Gabbiano (125cc) and the Vampir launched the company and 48cc powerplants are sourced by dozens of scooter companies starting in 1954.
1956 The two partners split up and Vittorio Minarelli builds F.B. Minarelli where up to 70 engines are produced daily by about 20 employees. Motorcycle production ceases so that F.B. Minarelli can concentrate on the production of two-stroke engines for mopeds and motorcycles.
1967 B. Minarelli changes company name to Motori Minarelli and opens what is still the main building in Lippo di Calderara di Reno. Motorcycle production resumes and the company keeps on growing. In the 70s, 200,000 two-wheelers and 50,000 agricultural engines are produced annually. Between 1978 and 1981 Motori Minarelli wins four manufacturer titles and two rider titles in the 125cc world championships.
1990 The Motori Minarelli enters the 50cc era. The company supplies engines to most of the European manufacturers: MBK, Yamaha Motor España, Aprilia, Malaguti, Beta, Rieju, etc… This boom brings production to 700.000 units in 1998 and the staff reaches 500 employees.
1998 -1999 End of the 90s, the four-stroke 125cc scooter engine is added to the production of two-stroke models tempi. Motori Minarelli doubles its covered area by opening Building 2, where Engine Assembly takes place.
2000 The two-wheeler market suffers a sharp downturn due to the saturation of the “fifty” segment and the difficult European economic situation. Ownership by Yamaha progressively increases corporate control at the beginning of 2002.
2002: Motori Minarelli develops engines up to 660cc capacity at the cutting edge of their category, in line with the requirements of a constantly evolving market. Equipment and human resources are invested into R&D in collaboration with Yamaha’s engineers and know-how.
2008: The ambitious landmark 10 millionth engine is produced.
2020 Fantic Motor acquired 100% of Motori Minarelli at the end of 2020. An event that binds two companies that have made the history of two wheels in Italy.
