Do you drive a water-cooled Piaggio or Gilera 2-stroke (125 to 180 cc) and do you want a little more oomph without it immediately becoming a pure racing setup? Then you quickly arrive at the Malossi 172 cc cylinder with head. It is a complete cylinder kit that mainly provides extra torque and stronger, usable power. Handy for the street, as long as you set it up neatly and adjust it properly.
What is this Malossi 172 cc cylinder kit with head
This is a high performance cylinder kit from Malossi for water-cooled 2-stroke Piaggio and Gilera blocks in the 125 to 180 cc class. The big advantage of this version: it is supplied with a cylinder head. So you don't have to puzzle with a loose head that may or may not match well.
Why choose the Malossi 172 cc upgrade
More torque and smoother acceleration
In practice, this upgrade mainly feels like more “pull” at the bottom and in the midrange. You get out of place more easily and when picking up from a rolling speed, the engine simply responds more enthusiastically. Exactly the kind of gain you really notice on the road.
Malossi quality for daily and sporting use
Malossi is known for a good fit and a neat finish. That is why you often see this kit among riders who want more power, but are looking for a set-up that also remains reliable in daily use. The caveat is simple: adjustment and cooling must be correct, otherwise no cylinder kit will remain intact for long.
Specifications and contents of the kit
It may differ slightly per batch or package, but with this kit you can generally count on:
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Capacity: 172 cc cylinder configuration
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Engine type: 2 stroke
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Cooling: water-cooled, LC
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Application: Piaggio and Gilera 125 to 180 cc LC blocks
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Version: including cylinder head
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Malossi article number that is often linked to this kit: 3111140
Do you want to be 100% sure what is in your box? Please check the product photo and the current product description at the time of ordering.
Compatibility: does this cylinder fit your Piaggio or Gilera
The basis is clear: you need a water-cooled 2-stroke Piaggio or Gilera block in the 125 to 180 cc class. If you have any doubts, please check this before ordering:
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Is your block water-cooled and not air-cooled?
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This is a 2 stroke engine and not a 4 stroke version
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Does your current cylinder configuration correspond to the LC variant in terms of connections and cooling channel routing?
Are you not sure exactly which engine code or year you have? Grab your frame number and engine code and contact us, and we will quickly check with you for compatibility.
Performance and tuning advice for a strong set up
The Malossi 172 cc cylinder with head only works really well when the rest of your set-up cooperates. Think of enough fuel, a cooling system that does its job and an exhaust that suits your driving style. Instead of focusing blindly on one horsepower figure, it is smarter to let it run safely and properly adjusted.
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Carburetion: it is better to set it a little richer as a basis and check the spark plug pattern after the first rides
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Exhaust: choose an exhaust that suits your use, street-oriented or sportier, and adjust the setting accordingly
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Variator and transmission: rollers and compression spring determine how quickly the engine reaches its torque range
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Crankshaft and bearings: at higher loads it is wise to check the clearance and condition
Assembly and running-in in general terms
Only do this if you have the right tools and your cooling system and ignition are in good condition. Work cleanly, measure where necessary and replace any gaskets you remove. After installation, you mainly want to check this: no leaks, coolant that circulates properly and a fuel adjustment that is safe.
Drive slowly for the first few kilometers and alternate between gas and load. It is better to leave long stretches of full throttle for a while, and give the engine time to cool down in between. Stalling usually does not occur "just like that": often it is setting too lean, too little cooling or loading too quickly.
Reliability, maintenance and lifespan
How long such a set lasts mainly depends on adjustment, cooling, oil quality and driving style. Therefore, keep an eye on your coolant level, check for leaks and occasionally look at the spark plug pattern and the compression feeling. Do you suddenly notice less power, do you hear pinging or is the temperature rising? Then stop for a moment and see what is going on, this often prevents expensive damage.
Frequently asked questions
Is this upgrade legal on public roads?
This varies per country and per type approval. Think of this kit as a performance part that regularly falls outside the standard homologation. Therefore, always check local rules and your insurance.
Do I need additional parts?
Usually yes. Consider gaskets, coolant, possibly a different jet and parts to properly tune the transmission. What you need depends on your current setup.
What is the difference with the version without a head?
With a cup you buy a complete combination in one go. Without a head, you really have to be sure that your current head is the right fit in terms of fit and combustion chamber, otherwise you are more likely to have trouble with compression or an incorrect squish.
Order from Fresh Parts
If you want to order the Malossi 172 cc cylinder with head, you want to be sure of two things: that it fits and that you have the right parts together. Are you having trouble deciding on your block type or your setup plans? Feel free to ask advice, then you can order correctly in one go and your scooter will continue to drive reliably.