Gilera · 1953–1970
Gilera B300 twin: history and buying advice
Two 150 cylinders side by side.
History
The prototype was shown in autumn 1952; sales started with the 1954 model year. The B300 is in effect a doubled 150: two cylinders with the same bore and stroke.
There was a Normale and an Extra. Buyers complained of heat and vibration at high speed; after bearing failures Gilera improved the lubrication in 1957 and added more cooling fins and a stiffer frame. The B300 was also built in Argentina.
Key data
| Engine | 2 cylinders parallel, overhead valves (OHV) |
|---|---|
| Bore × stroke | 2 × 60 × 54 mm, 305 cc |
| Power | 12.5 hp (1954) to 15.5 hp (from 1964) |
| Carburettor | 1 × Dell'Orto 20 mm (later 22 mm) |
| Gearbox | 4 gears in unit |
| Weight | approx. 137–154 kg dry |
What to check when buying
- Early engines (before 1957) had weaker lubrication: ask about a bearing rebuild and check the oil lines.
- Watch for overheating on a longer test ride and for vibration at higher speed.
- Normale or Extra? Check the specification against the papers.
- Many parts are the same as on the 150; that helps when searching.
- Argentine examples differ in details; keep that in mind if originality matters.