Derbi Motorcycles

Derbi was founded in 1922 by Simeó Rabasa i Singla as a bicycle workshop in Mollet, near Barcelona - its name is a contraction of the Catalan phrase for "derivatives of bicycles." The company grew into one of Spain's major motorcycle and moped manufacturers, particularly known for small-displacement bikes and a strong presence in Grand Prix road racing. Piaggio Group acquired Derbi in 2001, and the brand's production and model range have wound down significantly since then as Piaggio consolidated its European two-wheeler manufacturing. Where Derbi models remain, they're built and sold largely as Piaggio-group products rather than under fully independent development, a much smaller footprint than the brand held through the late 20th century.