There was a time when a manufacturer was particularly feared in small categories. A firm with 12 world titles. His name: Derbi. Here is his story.
It all starts, as most times, with a very small establishment. In the small village of Mollet des Valès not far from Barcelona, Simeó Rabasa i Singla quietly repairs his bikes, a century ago... Indeed, Derbi will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2022, a longevity which testifies to the passion and dedication of a man.
A few years later, Simeó Rabasa dreams – a little – bigger. He would like to build his own unpretentious bicycles. This is how he founded Bicycletas Rabasa just before the Second World War. But the Catalan had an idea in mind: ride motorcycles.
In 1946, seeing the success of his small business, he decided to start motorizing his bicycles, transforming them into mopeds. Success is immediate. Faced with the success of the 48cc RSR, Simeó moved up a gear. He changes the name of the company to Nacional Motor SA and unveils its first 250cc.
Ángel Nieto's 50cc, world champion in 1969. With 12+1 titles, Nieto's legend began on this – very – small machine. Photo: Peprovira.
We know: At the time, perhaps more than now, the representation of your brand in Grand Prix is essential. We had to wait until 1968 to see a Derbi (taken from DERivats de BIcicletes in Catalan, or “bicycle derivative”) triumph in the world championship. It was the Australian Barry Smith who delivered the Spanish firm to the Isle of Man in 50cc, no less. Moreover, he finished third in the championship; a great performance.
Among the Derbi drivers, many Spaniards. Among them, Carlos Vila, Francisco Cufi and a certain Angel Nieto. The latter is of course one of the great architects of the Catalan brand's endless track record. From the following year, nothing could resist him.
By winning two rounds including the German Grand Prix and the terrible Ulster Grand Prix, the Spaniard pocketed the first world champion title of his career. A feat that would not have been possible without a top 50cc, used by three riders in the top 10.
The title race against the Dutchman Aalt Toersen on Kreidler was not won, and the crown was played out for only a small point at the finish. Rabasa enters the legend forever, but the story was far from over...
Cover photo: Peprovira
