The carburetor is the key component of the intake system and has a significant impact on the performance of any engine. Vintage mopeds are usually fitted with Dell'Orto or Gurtner/Bing carburetors. There are also performance-enhancing tuning carburetors (from 12 mm to much larger diameters) for tuned engines. This guide is intended to help you choose the right carburetor.
Our range extends from low-priced standard carburetors to professional racing carburetor kits, compatible with the most popular mopeds and small motorcycles of the 70s/80s: Puch Maxi, Simson Schwalbe, Tomos A3, Hercules, Kreidler Florett, Zündapp, Peugeot 103, MBK 51, Piaggio Ciao and many more.
The carburetor generates and regulates the air-fuel mixture ensuring that a moped engine runs cleanly and efficiently. Carburetor adjustment directly affects engine behavior, fuel consumption and operating temperature.
During intake, a vacuum is created in the carburetor, which pulls fuel from the float chamber through the jets. When the throttle is opened, the throttle slide rises, allowing more air in while increasing the fuel flow. The main and idle jets as well as the needle determine the fuel quantity depending on the throttle position and engine speed. Proper tuning ensures efficient combustion, good performance and linear throttle response.
Especially on classic mopeds, which are often ridden at half throttle over long distances, a correct carburetor setting means a smooth running engine with a lower risk of failure, even on older engines with 6-volt ignition and simple cooling systems.
Understanding the individual components makes precise tuning across the entire rev range much easier. Each part has a specific function.
The choice depends on the intended use, engine setup and personal experience. There is no "best" carburetor, only the right one for your setup.
Standard carburetors are factory-installed and are set up to offer a compromise between fuel consumption and reliability. They are the ideal choice for true-to-original replacement and maintenance of mopeds for everyday use.
For lightly tuned engines. Improve flow and throttle response without excessive torque loss at low RPM.
For high-performance engines and race engines. They maximize the performance of mopeds with larger displacement, with maximum flow and direct throttle response. Performance and behavior at high RPM clearly take precedence over fuel consumption.
Note on road approval: Carburetors with an enlarged cross-section can lead to problems during technical approval (TÜV/DEKRA) if 50 ccm displacement is specified in the vehicle documents. For use on public roads, please check the applicable regulations.
The performance of a two-stroke moped does not depend solely on the carburetor, but on the consistency of the entire setup. An oversized carburetor on a stock engine, or a restrictive stock carburetor combined with a racing cylinder, will reduce performance and increase the risk of engine damage.
Before you change the carburetor or install a sports/racing cylinder, you should observe a few basic principles:
Only well-matched components ensure reliability and maximum performance.
A poorly adjusted sports or racing carburetor can perform worse than a correctly adjusted OEM carburetor. Adjustment is verified via spark plug reading, engine behavior, fuel consumption and throttle response.
A poor air/fuel ratio has a direct impact on performance and reliability:
Correct tuning is indicated by a light brown / tan spark plug, smooth engine behavior across the rev range, reasonable consumption, stable temperature and clean throttle response.
Correct adjustment is the prerequisite for maximum performance without risk. Always work from top to bottom: full throttle first, then mid-range, finally idle. Proven method:
Signs of a correct setting: Smooth response across the entire rev range, no misfires, and a light brown spark plug after a full-throttle test.
Pro tip: Always have a set of spare main jets on hand (±2-3 sizes), as temperature, altitude and humidity affect the carburetor setting. Cold weather may require slightly richer settings; hot weather or high altitude usually require leaning out.
To ensure long-term optimal performance, the following points must be observed:
After a long service life, aged fuel can block the channels. There are two methods of cleaning:
Note: Modern fuels containing ethanol age quickly and are not ideal for two-stroke engines that sit unused. After several months, fuel degrades, thickens and can clog jets and passages, leading to starting issues and poor running. On older engines, these fuels may also attack seals and rubber components. To avoid problems and full carburetor teardown, do not store mopeds long-term with fuel in the system. Ideally, ride regularly or at least start the engine occasionally.
How often should the carburetor be cleaned? In normal use, about every 6-12 months. An earlier check is advisable in dusty environments or after long periods of inactivity.
When replacing the carburetor, it is important that the intake manifold fits perfectly in addition to the actual carburetor diameter. There are essentially three main types:
Elastic connection that absorbs vibrations well.
| Connection | Carburetor types |
| 24 mm | Dell'Orto PHVA/PHBN 12-21 mm, Gurtner |
| 25 mm | Dell'Orto PHBG, Polini CP 17.5-21 mm (Ø 25.5 mm) |
| 31 mm | Dell'Orto PHBL 20-26 mm |
| 35-36 mm | Keihin PWK 19-30 mm (Ø 35 mm), Dell'Orto VHST 24-28 mm (Ø 36 mm), Dell'Orto PHBH 26-30 mm (Ø 35 mm) |
Note: The connection diameter is always measured on the carburetor side. The rubber sleeves are generally slightly smaller as they expand during installation.
Rigid connection with metal clamp, typical for many moped carburetors.
| Connection | Carburetor types |
| 16-18 mm | SHA 13-15 mm, Gurtner 12 mm, Bing 12 mm, Amal 14 mm |
| 24-25 mm | Dell'Orto PHBG CS 15-21 mm, Arreche 16-21 mm |
Important: 23 mm versions are also available. In all cases, it is necessary to measure the distance and use a spacer if necessary to ensure a airtight installation.
In our online store you will find a complete range of carburetors, spare parts and accessories for classic mopeds of all brands. From original parts for maintenance to racing parts for extreme setups: everything you need to bring your moped to peak performance.
We work with manufacturers recognized in the industry, a guarantee of quality, performance and durability.
⚡ Complete carburetor kits with matching carburetor, jet and reed valve are also available to simplify the search for suitable parts.
We stock all the parts you need to keep your carburetor in perfect condition:
All these parts are available individually or as complete repair kits.
Thanks to the detailed exploded views, it is possible to quickly identify the parts that are compatible with your moped.
Choosing the right carburetor makes the difference between a moped that merely “runs” and one that accelerates properly, responds instantly and delivers real riding fun. Whether stock or tuned, the balance between carburetor, cylinder, exhaust and intake is the key to success.
Our store offers:
Take a look at our extensive catalog, you'll find the right parts to take your moped to the next level.
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