1951, Motori Minarelli is established as F.B.M. (Fabbrica Bolognese Motocicli) by a vision from Vittorio Minarelli and Franco Morini.
The original Gabbiano (125cc) and the Vampir, are among the first products of the factory: they are full bikes. 48cc engines for mopeds start being produced only 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 twenty employees.
The production of complete bikes is dismissed and F.B. Minarelli concentrates all energy in the production of two-stroke engines for mopeds and motorcycles.
1967, B. Minarelli changes company name in Motori Minarelli and opens what is still the main building in Lippo di Calderara di Reno.
The company keeps on growing. In the 70s 200,000 two-wheelers and 50,000 agricultural engines are produced as an average. The greatest competitive success is also of those years: between 1978 and 1981 Motori Minarelli wins four manufacturer titles and two rider titles in the 125 cc world championships, some of which are still unbeaten.
