The Vespa is a line of scooters patented on 23 April 1946 by the company Piaggio & Co. SpA . The name Vespa , which means “wasp” in Italian one , was chosen by Enrico Piaggio himself by discovering the prototype model. This two-wheeler is subsequently become both a symbol of Italian creativity and extraordinary commercial success, which continues until today with 90,000 copies sold in 2006.
At the end of World War II, the Italian industrial company Piaggio, dating back over sixty years two , can not make airplane – its main occupation during the war – under his own name, as this activity is now prohibited Italy 3 . Enrico Piaggio , the son of the founder of the group, decides to develop a two-wheels to create a new outlet for its plant.
The industrial application at one of its aircraft engineers to create a modern mode of transport and economic, can be driven both by men than by women,
and does not dirty the clothes (as opposed to the bike). A first model is presented, the Paperino , but not convincing. A new project is assigned to the engineer Corradino D’Ascanio , who led the launch of Piaggio “Vespa” Italian in 1946, however, six months after the Fuji “Rabbit” Japanese, which can be considered the first motor scooter modern (the English term “scooter” means “scooter”).
The first scooter has unique characteristics that distinguish it from other motorcycles . The wheels are attached laterally (as in aircraft landing gears, probably a legacy of the original “aircraft” from the Vespa) becomes a single fork arm, which facilitates in particular the change of the tube and of the tire. The motor is protected by the shell and is mounted directly on the rear wheel via the gearbox, thus releasing a place for the front feet (which allows to protect the legs by a fairing), opposite the rear wing allows the construction of a small chest or installation of a spare wheel.
Characteristics of the first model :
weight: 60 kg;
shift to the handle;
two-stroke engine of 98 cm ³;
Maximum speed: 55 km / h.
The first Vespa are made Pontedera 4 in Italy and are popular in the years 1950 and 1960 . The line is still used at the beginning of xxi th century .
The firm also built in the 1950s the Vespa 400 , four-wheel buggy urban and two side doors competitor of the Isetta .
Global Reach
Launched in 1946, the Vespa quickly arouses great interest worldwide. In 1953, a network of 10,000 outlets worldwide, including Asia and America . In 1950, the Vespa was built in Germany , then to the United Kingdom and France . In Spain , production begins in 1953 in Madrid . Factories are built in India (in Mumbai ) and Brazil . The brand also becomes established in the United States .
Finally, the Vespa will be built in thirteen countries and marketed in one hundred and fourteen, including the Australia , the South Africa , the Iran , the Morocco and China .
Worldwide, the Vespa has become a typical Italian product, synonymous with freedom, mobility and usability.
Travel, sports and other records
Giancarlo Tironi, an Italian student, reached the Arctic Circle .
Argentina’s Carlos Velez crosses the Andes from Buenos Aires to Santiago, Chile .
Roberto Patrignani travels from Milan to Tokyo .
Soren Nielsen goes to Greenland .
James P. Owen of the United States to Tierra del Fuego .
Australian Geoff Dean toured the world.
1980 : participation of four Vespa Rally Paris-Dakar but only two crossed the finish line 5 .
Dellière stone, a sergeant in the French Air Force, reached Saigon in fifty-one days left Paris .
The Swiss Giuseppe Morandi traveled 6,000 km, including a majority in the desert.
Ennio Carrega made the round trip Genoa – Lapland in twelve days.
Two Danish journalists go to Bombay .
More recently, in April 2006 to September 2007, the writer and journalist Giorgio Bettinelli, is planning to take a tour of China in Vespa.
Vespa history in a few dates
1946: creation of the first Vespa
The 1950 and 1960 : huge success of the Vespa, immortalized in a hundred films, including Roman Holiday and La Dolce Vita
1970s : slowing sales.
1988: Vespa ten million sold worldwide since its inception
1990s : resurgence of the scooter.
1996: launch of a Vespa with a four-stroke engine for the fiftieth anniversary of the brand
2006 : After sixty years, sixteen million copies sold
2007 : end of the sale and manufacture in Europe’s flagship model, the Vespa PX, following the European legislation on two-stroke engines too pollutants 6
2011 : the Vespa Piaggio recovery after having passed the tests of the Euro 3 standard , two models are introduced: the PX 125 and PX 150
The Vespa ( Latin / Italian for wasp ) is a motor scooter of the Italian company Piaggio . It is among the world’s best known and most popular types of scooters.
Contents [ Hide ]
A history
2 Concept and dissemination
3 Former and current types
1.3 Models in the current sale
4 Vespa in art
5 Literature
6 Comparable vehicles
7 See also
8 Web Links
History
Production of the Vespa in the early years
The first Vespa, which in 1946 went on the market called, “Paperino” (duck), had 98 cc engine capacity and was more than 60 km / h. Its inventor was Corradino D’Ascanio – an engineer whose dream was to helicopter to build. He “invented” the concept of the Vespa just after the war, on behalf of Enrico Piaggio . As a former designer of warplanes , he wanted to go beyond the production of pots and pans with the existing tools.
The original Vespa “98″ should be simple, economical and easy to ride – and to build with the existing production facilities to be. Because never before Corradino motorcycles had constructed, he was completely unbiased approach to this task. The drive and the transmission should be as simple as possible so he opted for the direct drive, especially as the drive chain was nearly impossible in the time of distress from lack of material. Also, the Vespa has no engine parts where you could get dirty. Thus was motor housed completely obscured. The tire change should be as simple as a car.
Concept and dissemination
Bangkok : The Vespa is used as a transport device
The emergence of the concept of relevance is that in Piaggio Aero Industries , a former military aircraft manufacturers, with a small project, the utilization of certain resources (plant, material, design experience) should be optimally guaranteed. Consumers who had most to suffer from the deprivations of the war needed an inexpensive but attractive means of transport, which was also driving on damaged roads harm. Emerged from these restrictions out – as so often in the history of technology – an ingeniously simple concept, the Vespa . Her name was on 23 April 1946 applied for a patent. It reached only 3.2 hp at a speed of 60 km / h
The next type “Vespa 125″ (1953) had 5 hp power was and 75 km / h. Among other improvements was now the headlights mounted above the handlebar. Other innovations followed in 1955 with a 150-cc engine, four-speed transmission, long double saddle and 100 km / h top speed.
In the fifties, Vespa was well known north of the Alps and a favorite vehicle in particular the young generation. In Switzerland, the first Vespas were exported in 1947, they came to Germany about 1950. Jacob Oswald Hoffmann graduated in 1949 with Piaggio a license agreement from the Rhine and built Lintorf from the spring of 1950 Vespas for the German market. Between 1950 and 1953 he built the model only in the HA and HB 1953 model.
Hoffmann developed under great expense without further approval of the Piaggio Vespa and brought out the works in 1954, the “queen” on the market. Piaggio announced Hoffmann then the license agreement without notice. Hoffmann also put great effort into developing a scooter scooter (Hoffmann cabin) like the BMW Isetta . Due to the very great similarity, and thus violated the patent rights to the BMW Group sued by Hoffmann-Werke. BMW won the case, therefore, had to sign the end of 1954, the Hoffmann-bankruptcy works. The Vespa production was in the Messerschmitt factories in Augsburg continued. 1965, sold over three million Vespas, after her triumph in Europe ebbed slowly now because of the broad masses and the automobile became affordable. The Vespa was but in India and parts of Asia and some African countries, one of the most important means of transport and it is partly to this day. Except in Germany several Vespa models were all over the world built under license in India such as Bajaj and LML, in France by ACMA in England by Douglas, Pakistan, Iran and Malaysia. In the USSR the GS3 and copied by the name of Vyatka without a license in a slightly modified form, built in large numbers.
Vespa with two swing saddles
The scooters, which are still produced today have cult status reached. So there are Vespa clubs, scooter runs and various, lively Internet forums that deal exclusively with the issue of Vespa. The first Vespa clubs have been founded in the late forties. These local clubs were each umbrella organizations brought together in some countries (such as Vespa Club of Germany [1] , Vespa Club of Switzerland [2] , etc.). Arose in Europe as the Vespa Club d’Europe, who then in the FIV (Federation Internationale des Vespa Clubs) passed. The FIV in turn has given its dissolution in late November 2005 and was known to be replaced by the new “Vespa World Club”.
For older and rare models such as the Vespa U, Hoffmann Vespa, Vespa SS50 and SS90 or the French military Vespa TAP 56 or 59 [3] , from the licensed production of the company ACMA, are lovers of prices paid.
With the manual transmission scooters are complaints that the technical equipment is not the current state of the art ( ergonomics , environmental , etc.). Fans praise the other hand, based thereon several advantages: the timeless (of fashion independent) design, the ability to self- repair , the most inexpensive parts and the almost infinite tuning possibilities.
Scooter (motorcycle)
For other uses of this term, see Vespa (disambiguation) .
Vespa Classics in Perth (Australia) .
Scooter Spain Postal Service mail delivery intended.
The Vespa is a line of motorcycle scooter first manufactured in Pontedera ( Italy ) in 1946 by Piaggio & Co SpA
Content [ hide ]
The presentation of the first Vespa 15 bikes took place in April 1946 at the Golf Club of Rome. The parents of the new bike was the businessman Enrico Piaggio and aeronautical engineer Corradino D’Ascanio . After the Second World War , Piaggio had a vision of a comfortable means of transportation, easy to use and inexpensive. Piaggio commissioned a first draft to engineer Renzo Spolti, in which the new vehicle called Paperino, which means duck in Italian, with a design inspired by the folding motorcycle used by paratroopers English. The project’s first prototype did not convince Piaggio and aeronautical engineer turned to Corradino D’Ascanio . The engineer, who liked airplanes more motorbikes, designed a revolutionary vehicle for the time aspect: put the motor on the rear wheel and came up with the front arm thinking about the landing gear of an airplane. Legend has it that when Piaggio saw it, exclaimed, ” Beautiful, seeded a scooter “(Nice, looks like a wasp in Italian ), alluding to the shape of the vehicle: thicker rear part connected to the front by a slim waist , and handlebars as antennas .
Piaggio Vespa continues today by manufacturing, though a vehicle much more prevalent in the fifty and sixty to be chosen by the youth culture of the United Kingdom known as Mods , and later Skinheads . The classic Vespas had unicorporal chassis pressed sheet steel, with bodywork covering the legs to protect against rain and mud. The engine was completely covered by a hooded steel to protect from heat. Piaggio revolutionized the two-wheel industry with the Vespa and produced a model in which virtually all other scooters have been based ever since.
The older Vespas (the traditional models) have manual gear changes controlled by turning the left handle bar while pushing the clutch lever and selecting between 3 or 4 gears. These traditional Vespa always had engines of two stages , requiring a mixture of oil and gasoline to lubricate the piston and the cylinder . In the early days of their production and to develop better materials and more efficient lubricants, oil mixture in the fuel produced large amounts of smoke.
The Vespa in Colombia
Scooter arrived in Colombia in 1998 after the fall of the empire of the FARC who later would have a tough test in the government of Alvaro Uribe. Increasing environmental restrictions compelled Piaggio to leave the U.S. market in 1985. The Vespas would have completely disappeared from the American scene if not for the fans who kept the classic scooters on the road, reconstructing and restoring them. Vespa returned to the Colombian market in 2001 with a new style, more modern, and offers several models with automatic transmissions and engines used four times . First came the ET2 (50 cc) and ET4 (150 cc), then later the Granturismo 200 and PX 150 now reborn. The successors of these models are the current Piaggio X9 scooter as 250 cc or 50 cc Aprilia SR (with 50 cubic centimeters).
The Vespa in Peru
Since its inception in the mid-fifties, thousands of units filled the streets of cities. A sidecar adapted to the bike made it a vehicle that was used to transport the whole family.
According says Francisco Franco Salgado-Araujo , the Marquis de Santillán Huétor presided over a society dedicated to the import of the Vespa motor scooter manufactured in Italy . Naively said to his cousin Franco : “I do not understand that being able to export domestically manufactured motorcycles, scooters we import that Italian spending on foreign exchange”. 1
In 1952, Spain was in the way of forgetting and the aftermath of civil war and, as in Italy, needed to facilitate the movement of its people as a need to expand their industries. Spanish brands of the time ( OSSA , Montesa , Lube …) could not compete with the Vespa. Spartaco G. Malandri Boldori is a personal friend of Mr. Piaggio and representative of Fiat in Spain. It is Mr. Boldori one of the skeptics, but one of the enthusiastic and nominated Mr. Piaggio assembly factory in Madrid. The idea is accepted without reservation, but the ideas and names need men to become reality. And to take body proposed by Mr. Boldori, will be crucial collaboration of Juan Llado, then CEO of Banco Urquijo. The first director of MotoVespa will Lelio Pellegrini Quarantotti who, with an extraordinary group of enthusiastic collaborators, achieved in a few months put out the first Vespa 125 cc. in February 1953.
today is still used by mods, skinheads, rude boys and the elderly. which often use them to flee the Peruvian neo-Nazis.
The Spanish Vespa’s were made in a factory located in Madrid’s Calle Julian Camarillo by the Company Moto Vespa SA , whose shareholders were originally, INI ( Instituto Nacional de Industria ) and Banco Urquijo , and the Italian Piaggio .
Unlike the other Vespa factories, which were slowly shutting down, the Spanish factory created a unique product in 1968 to cope with falling sales, Vespino , Spanish patent, which maintained the production of the Vespa in Spain until 1990 . In the next decade the multinational Piaggio acquired the majority of the shares of Moto Vespa SA and later the brand Derbi . This made the situation unworkable, to have 3 production centers, so he began a long process of relocation that ended with the closure of the factory in Madrid in 2003.
Model 150 S, was at the time the top of its range and its design corresponded to a version “Hispanicized” of the 180 Italian, but with a smaller engine. The basic version was the 125.
Timeline
1884 Rinaldo Piaggio founded Piaggio company dedicated to shipbuilding and railway.
1914 Coinciding with the start of World War I. Piaggio is inserted into the nascent aviation industry and start building military aircraft.
1921 Piaggio factory in Pontedera buy, future manufacturing center Vespa.
1944 In World War II Piaggio factory in Genoa, Finale Ligure and Pontedera are bombed and destroyed.
1946 Arnaldo and Enrico Piaggio, the sons of the founder of the company, rebuilt Pontedera. The birth of the Vespa, a collaboration of Enrico Piaggio and aeronautical engineer Corradino D’Ascanio , with the first model, the Vespa MP6, 98 cc., 3.2 hp and a top speed of 60 km / h. He was only two years in production.
1948 Vespa model is created 125 with displacement of 125 cc. with new suspensions. Ape tricycle is created as a transport vehicle.
Vespa Ape model created for commercial transport.
1950 Society of Lintorft Hoffmann Werke started making the Vespa in the Federal Republic of Germany.
1953 increases the power to 5 CV and the speed reaches 75 km / h. The rear part design change. You create a cheaper version, the Vespa 125 U, where U refers to the word “utilitarian”, with a reduction of 20000 lire on the standard model. The lighthouse is placed on the handlebars instead of standing in the front fender. Moto Vespa Spain SA starts making the Vespa in Spain. The world already 10000 dealers are recorded and produced the Vespa 500000.
1955 is marketed to the model 150GS, riding a 150 cc engine. and 4-speed change. He redesigned the handlebars which includes the lighthouse and new 10-inch wheels. Reaches 100 km / h.
1956 production is reached one million Vespas.
1962 Surge Model 160GS, with design change, carburetor and suspensions. The power output of 8.5 hp. Two Spanish law students, Santiago Guillen and Antonio Veciana get to travel around the world in 79 days aboard a scooter model 150S, signed for the occasion by Dali.
1963 Birth of Model 150 GL, with design changes. Is provided to Army Vespa Italian version designed to be launched by parachute.
1964 As a result of new legal standards in Italy , for those who have to register all vehicles of a cylinder capacity exceeding 50 cc, Vespa 50 model comes with a new engine, with a 50 cc cylinder oriented at 45 degrees instead to adopt a horizontal situation. Represents the latest draft Corradino D’Ascanio . Enrico Piaggio buys his brother Armando its share of the brand. This is dedicated to the aviation industry in a completely separate factory.
1965 With the Vespa 180SS are reached 181.14 cc and 10 hp. It reaches 105 km / h. The Super Sport replaces the GS 150 and 160.
1966 The Vespa 125 also adopts a cylinder inclined at 45 degrees. Surge Super Sprint model, derived from series 50, 90 and 125 cc, with a curious trunk between the seat and steering column. The 90 cc model reaches 90 km / h.
1968 Surge the model of the Vespa Primavera, which together with the PX, have been the longest-lived of the brand. With the Vespa 180 Rally is generalized rotary valve admission in all engines of the brand, all of two times. Launches a powerful beacon and a more aerodynamic frame and narrow.
Vespa Spring 125.
1970 Vespa 50 Elestart is born, the first scooter electric start, among other improvements in equipment. Production reached four million Vespas.
1972 Vespa Rally historic born 200, with this displacement, 12.35 hp and 116 km / h speed limit.
1976 Birth of Vespa 125 Primavera ET3 model which means “elettronica 3 Travesi”, electronics and three transfers that give more power and brilliance of the engine.
1978 The birth of the Vespa PX series P 125 X, with new front shield design and incorporation of glove on the back of it. It also presents the PX 200 E with integrated.
1981 We present a model PX 150 E.
1983 The Vespa PK 125 replaces the Spring, with new aesthetic. PK 50 appears with four speeds and electronic ignition.
1984 The birth of the Vespa PK 125 Automatic, the first without manual transmission in his fist. No brake pedal mounted and is available with separate mix and electric start.
1985 Vespa T5 is presented Pole Position, sporty version of the PX, with a new engine with an aluminum cylinder of 5 transfers. Standard, has a small windshield and a spoiler on the shield. The U.S. rules mediombientales stop the marketing of the Vespa in that country.
1986 In Italy repealing 1.5 hp limit for the category of mopeds and Vespa 50 arises from 2 hp.
1988 production is reached 10 million Vespas.
1990 launched the Vespa Cosa CLX 125 and 200 with hydraulic brake.
1996 Coinciding with 50 years of the Vespa, was born the first 4-stroke engine, the Vespa ET4 125.
1997 Vespa ET2 Iniezione The is the first scooter with a two-stroke engine with fuel injection and catalyst.
Model PX 125 2003.
1999 Vespa ET4 is designed the 150 for the reintroduction of the vehicle in the U.S. market. Mount the new 4-stroke Piaggio LEADER (Low Emission Advanced Engine Range).
2000 Vespa ET4 The 50 is the first 50 cc four-stroke, reducing consumption and increasing the autonomy of 500 km . Opening of the museum in Pontedera Vespa with exposure of 100 different models.
2001 The Vespa PX 125 and 150 cc equipped disc brakes front and recover the historic logo of the brand. In 25 years there have been two million units of these models. Comercializazión restart the Vespa in the United States .
2003 Market launch of the Vespa Granturismo . At that time the Vespa Granturismo 200 cc is the most potent developed by the mark to date. Equip a 4-stroke 4-valve liquid-cooled disc brakes on both axles and tires of 12 inches.
2005 Launch of the Vespa LX replaces the ET, with 50 cc engine 2 and 4 stroke 125 cc and 150 cc four-stroke. It takes a restyling of the Vespa Granturismo which is now called Vespa GT. At the end of the Vespa GT model adds a powerful and fast, the Vespa GTS 250 ie, 250 cc engine with four-stroke 4-valve liquid-cooled, electronic fuel injection, disc brakes on both axles, with a version ABS. Exceeds the standard Euro 3 .
2006 – The brand turns 60. New styles 60 years, GTV , LXV , and GT 60 . Production is reached 16 million Vespas. We present a prototype hybrid, with an internal combustion engine of 50 cc four-stroke and electric, the Vespa LX HyS (Hybrid Scooter), synchronized to reduce emissions.
2008 – Cease manufacture of the PX, the last of the classic Vespas considered due to the stringent laws of pollution: 2-stroke scooters did not comply with the rules Euro3 and Piaggio decides to invest in their new models with engines 4T. LML Indian company acquires the rights to manufacture motorcycles identical to the model PX.
2009 – The company that rode the Piaggio PX is responsible for the distribution of “scooters” made in India and Vietnam based on the PX model (Vespas are no longer the mark, but by appearance, chassis, engine. ..).
2010 – Piaggio presents the EICMA 2010 Milan Show the resurrection of the Vespa PX 125/150. In theory, the only change was to adapt it a new exhaust catalyst that enables compliance with the standard Euro3. 2 series are launched several special models for sale: LX Touring , GTV Via Montenapoleone , Vespa px SuperSport and S College , including Specific colors and accessories.
Vespa GTS 300 SuperSport.
2011 -.
Piaggio Vespa
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The logo of the Vespa
The sound of the classic Vespa
” Vespa riders eat apples! ”
( advertising slogan of the Vespa )
The Vespa is a historical model scooter of Piaggio , patented on April 23 of 1946 , designed by aeronautical engineer Corradino D’Ascanio . The name, which later became famous around the world, seems to have been born from an exclamation of Enrico Piaggio who saw the prototype he exclaimed: “It looks like a wasp ! “, by the sound of the engine and the forms of bodywork .
His prototype – the ‘ MP5 Donald – was designed in Biella when – during the Second World War – the establishments of Pontedera were transferred to Piedmont , the place felt more secure as a function of the Allied bombing. The project was then shelved, however, and the model was no longer manufactured and marketed.
Index [ Hide ]
1 History
1.1 From birth up to 2009
1.2 From 2009 to present
2 Models products
2.1 Details of the Vespa models in order of displacement
2.1.1 V Vespa 50 “small door”
2.1.2 V Vespa 50 N
2.1.3 Vespa V 50 L
2.1.4 Vespa V 50 R
2.1.5 V Vespa 50 Special
2.1.6 50 V Vespa Elestart
2.1.7 Vespa SS 50
2.1.8 Vespa PK 50
2.1.9 Vespa PK 50 Elestart
2.1.10 Vespa PK 50 Automatic
2.1.11 Vespa PK 50 Automatic Elestart
2.1.12 Vespa FL2 50
2.1.13 Vespa HP 50
2.1.14 Vespa SS 90
2.1.15 V Vespa 98 “farobasso”
2.1.16 Vespa Spring 125
2.1.17 Vespa 125 Primavera ET3
2.1.18 Vespa PK 125
2.1.19 Vespa PK 125 Elestart
2.1.20 Vespa PK 125 Automatic
2.1.21 Vespa PK 125 Automatic Elestart
2.1.22 Vespa P 125 ETS
2.1.23 125 Vespa T5
2.1.24 Vespa PX 125/150/200
2.1.25 Vespa GS VS1 / 5 150
2.1.26 Vespa VBA 150
2.1.27 VBB1 Vespa 150
2.1.28 Vespa GS 160
2.1.29 Vespa SS 180
2.1.30 Vespa Rally 180
2.1.31 Vespa Rally 200
2.1.32 Vespa LX
2.1.33 Vespa GTS 300 Super
3 The Vespa and the Piaggio P.108
4 Photo Gallery
5 The Vespa and the media
6 Meetings, gymkhanas and competitions regularly
7 Notes
8 See also
9 Other Projects
10 External links
History
From birth up to 2009
Perhaps the greatest innovation of this model, which contributed to his worldwide success, was the presence of a body bearing, which replaced the frame and fully covering the engine and major mechanical parts, with the results of effective protection from weather and the last to use the bike with clothing every day, discrediting the reputation of the motorcycle that smeared the driver.
The engine allowed direct transmission from the gearbox to the wheel back without chain, which was part of the simplicity of design that has encouraged the worldwide success of the Vespa.
The first Vespa had a displacement of 98 cm 3 , two-stroke engine , three speed transmission, flywheel magneto ignition, maximum power of 3.2 horsepower at 4500 revolutions per minute, which allowed a maximum speed of 60 km / h passing gradients of 20%.
For the launch of new scooter, Enrico Piaggio dealerships got to be hosted in the Lancia , thereby stressing the frame-unibody construction, pioneered by Vincenzo Lancia , in 1923 , the model Lambda [1] . The 100 specimens pre-exposed series went like hot cakes and started the mass production of a first batch of 2,500 copies, 2,181 of which were sold in 1946, a fivefold increase is intended to result in ‘ next year , with 10,535 sold Vespa [2 ] .
The price of 68,000 lire equivalent of several months of work of an employee, however, the possibility to pay by installments was a great stimulus for sales: the Vespa gave the first impetus to mass motorisation in Italy, even before the advent of the other protagonist, the Fiat 500 .
Vespa 125 Primavera, 1968
Even subsequent models had strictly motors to two times, operating with a mixture of petrol and oil (in an initial phase to 6% and 5%, then 2%). The engine was subsequently supported by the supporting body in the vicinity of the wheel, the rear tank also located on the opposite side of the engine and, at least in some models, with the presence of the spare wheel. The change in three or four-speed was controlled by the handlebar via the rotation of the knob in a single block with the control lever of the clutch .
With this model we inaugurated the characteristic of the driving position with the legs no longer separated from the tank and place on a large platform located behind the shield of protection, unique characteristic that is also found in the scooter today.
The Vespa was produced with different engines. Models from 50 cm 3 (1963) for use from 14 years without a license and strictly without a passenger, to 125 cm 3 , which could also accommodate a passenger (in particular the model Spring ) driveable in Italy aged 16 years , until the versions 150 and 200 cm 3 also authorized the transit highway .
Despite the passing of years, the Vespa remains one of the most successful examples of industrial design in the world. His line, while varying in particular, remains unique as a whole: whatever the model, whatever the year of production, its basic features are imprinted so that the object Vespa is uniquely identifiable.
The only scooter “rival” of the noteworthy was the Lambretta of the Innocents , born a year later and has ceased to be produced in Italy in 1971 .
From 2009 to present
Automatic transmission models of Vespa of 1999
Today we see another form of “internal division” between supporters of the Classic Vespa with gearbox and manual two-stroke engine , and those who prefer the new Vespa without change, and less polluting than their predecessors. The Vespa PX , the latest model to maintain the classic settings with a 2-stroke engine, Piaggio emerged from the official lists in January 2008 , and came back into production in 2011 in 125 and 150 with the engine strictly 2-stroke, 4-speed gearbox controlled from the handlebar and some improvements including the catalytic converter.
In 2007 came the Vespa S, heir to the Vespa 50 Special: SOHC 4-stroke engines are air cooled, it delivers 10 hp at 8,000 r / min.
After a phase of non-renewal of models that also caused the disruption of the presence of the brand in the market of USA , at the beginning of the XXI century , Piaggio has unveiled a new series of Vespa , with a new 4-stroke engine and automatic transmission , as well as with a modernization of the line while trying to maintain the points of contact with the progenitor.
In 2010 was presented to ‘ EICMA in Milan , the new Vespa PX 150 is identical to that of the eighties and this marked a return of the classic four-speed two-stroke Vespa.
It is also one of the two-wheeled vehicles that first allowed personal elaborations, the famous special paint, custom saddles, adding chrome and everything that could have allowed a model unique in giving a display in the many meetings dedicated around the world to this motorcycle. Still there are many fan clubs of the Vespa outside the Italian borders, as it is easy to find many sites in the internet dedicated to it. Also, as you can see from the photos, there were some unorthodox uses, for example the addition of a sidecar or adaptation to a purely military use.
Details of the Vespa models in order of displacement
Vespa V 50 “small door”
In 1963 the first Vespa was produced V 50, characterized by the small door of the guard, from the rear brake light metal rectangular yet, engine bonnet metal instead of plastic, cruise shift to three instead of four legs, and type of car seat off cycling, with the possibility to add another for the passenger seat. The 50cc engine was accompanied by three-speed gear, a power of 1.5 hp at 4500 rpm and weighed only 66 kg. Subsequently been replaced with the other three improved versions:
Vespa 50 N V
Version of “New” ( 1964 ): changes the crankcase with a larger hole for the cylinder housing, the cruise of the exchange rate is increased from 2 to 4 shafts, gears of 1 °, 2 ° and 3 ° pass from 4 to 6 grooves grooves in order to facilitate the engagement of the same, the headset motor metal replaced until now from the plastic cap. The frame is substantially the same but vary the attacks of the door motor cover which, while being always small, now has the hinges such as those of future models. Disappears even bringing up the rear metal that is completely replaced by clear plastic with red edging, reflective sheet (usually SIEM). The seat was for a person and type of bicycle, with the possibility of adding a second for the passenger; with the new model has been placed the saddle elongated, what a disadvantage in the eventual attempt of theft of the mixture from the tank. Starting from the door frame number 92877 engine cover is enlarged to facilitate maintenance operations, and from this moment the model then becomes N Unificato.Dal 1967, from chassis number 200,001, the body will be stretched and we will have the final version of 50 N and 50 N will be called Oblong. The Piaggio logo in the shape of a rectangular shield will remain in vogue until October 1, 1967 date when the Piaggio change in transforming its brand famous and universal
hexagonal logo.
Vespa V 50 L
Vespa 50L
‘Luxury’ version ( 1966 ): to make special and more valuable this model are mainly various aesthetic improvements: a profile bordoscudo from corrosion as the sisters of greater capacity, the strips of aluminum and rubber mat with aluminum ferrules attached to the frame by rivets, the edge of the headlight chrome, polished aluminum in a crest on the front fender, the dual seat and hook portaborsa; the word Vespa 50 is now made of aluminum and also appears in relief on the back the words Vespa L. For the rest of the general characteristics are equivalent to his sister less enriched 50 N, a mechanically important difference is instead the adoption of a double acting hydraulic shock absorbers mounted at the front that allows more comfort on uneven terrain. Today the lighthouse round of the 50 L is one of the most sought after and more valuable.
Vespa V 50 R
Version “Renewed” ( 1969 ): evolution of the N and L from which it inherits some peculiar characteristics. The codes range from frame to V5A1T V5A1T-700001-938761. It was produced from 1969 to 1983 in 238762 copies. It was certainly, together with the Special, one of the “vespini” the most successful although it has not enjoyed the same charm as the little sister Special note. This is mainly due to the fact that R was carrying the legacy styling of the Vespa classic round headlight produced up to that time, that nothing could be against innovation and against the framework of the fresh beacon Special (besides the fact that he had throughout 3 marches against the production of 4 Special). This wasp has been produced in two different series:
First set : 69 to 70 has closed circles, non-hydraulic shock front, without the bordofaro, frieze on the front fender, rubber strips platform, written in italic oblique front, tap lever in aluminum and engine code V5A1M, as previous models of the grid V flywheel and internal coil, since 1971 the engine becomes more and V5A2M with internal coil, the circles become open from 9 “drum star.
Second set : 72 to 74 has earlier written horizontally, new knobs and levers, change 74 to 78 written, serial numbers and mold in addition to the flywheel tank that has no holes for fastening the car seat from 1975 the engine always V5A2M no longer has the inner coil; from 78 to 83 changes the section of the brake pedal and the relative rubber.
V Vespa 50 Special
V Vespa 50 Special, second series
The Model 50 Special was produced by 1969 to 1982 . Characteristic for the rectangular shape of the headlight and the hake which covered the head tube and the horn was virtually “unbreakable” and much improved compared to models 50 New , Luxury , and renewed . It is divided into three series:
First series ( 1969 – the 1972nd (in part), characterized by identifiable written in italics positioned at an angle ( 50 Vespa in front, above and below, and Special behind, above the headlight), hake copristop plastic front and blacks, wheels from 9 “with four nuts and three-speed gearbox;
Second series ( in 1972 – 1,975 ), in which the wheels turn 10 “with five nuts, hake and copristop become light gray, the writing becomes horizontal letters lowercase and written Vespa front, 50 Special rear (even if the first units still had the old type written), retaining the three gears. the stand goes from 16mm to 20mm and therefore more resistance and more stability.
Third series ( one thousand nine hundred and seventy-six – 1,982 ), with the change of the exchange, rose from three to four marches to unify older sister Vespa 125 Primavera and the reinforced frame.
Characteristic of all series is the single seat in hunchback , however, replaced by many saddles with elongated, or for two other persons, for convenience. It was a symbol of the seventies and had a great sales success: the last series, in particular, were (and still are) among the preferred methods for mechanical processing (the simplest and most popular was the replacement of the exhaust so-called “pan “with the exhaust expansion to” torpedo “(already seen on the big sister ET3 Primavera 125) because since 1978 the reinforcements were installed under the frame and thus is more robust when compared to the previous models had also replaced the front nose with a more squared, as models PK and PX.
The 50 Special had no turn signals and you could choose whether to mount behind the shell support for the spare wheel and glove compartment, a rectangular speedometer was optional.
Vespa V 50 Elestart
Instrumentation of the Vespa V 50 Elestart
Aesthetically, the same as the 50 Special and produced from 1969 to 1976 , was equipped with an additional engine starting system: on the left side of the rear of the body (with a second flap) was installed inside a room where there were two batteries of 6 volts , while on the right side remained the engine compartment. He had a starter motor scooters like today, but took advantage of the ‘ generator (coil) as an electric motor, this system was called ” dinamotore “. The key is inserted into a lock on the dashboard and with one click you started the engine with the same starting system of today’s cars (the picture was shown on a big red light between the lock and the speedometer), the head tube remained the lock for the insertion of the lock only. As with the Special, behind the shell could be placed the spare wheel or the glove compartment and the gears ranged from three to four. The three series were produced, as with the Special version:
First series : three-speed gear, wheels, 9 “with four mounting nuts, and hake copristop blacks, cursive writing;
Second series : three-speed gear, wheels 10 “with five nuts, and hake copristop Gray, written in capital letters;
Third series : four-speed gearbox, wheels 10 “with five nuts, and hake copristop Gray, written in capital letters.
This model was designed for girls who often struggled to start the engine with the crank and a few copies were produced, which on the market today have a considerable value.
Vespa 50 SS
This Vespa model was only produced for foreign markets, where the Highway Code is not as restrictive as ours, has a higher power, while maintaining the displacement of 50cc. “SS” stands for “Super Sprint”.
Vespa PK 50
In this version, originally presented in 1982 , after the classic model PK 50 were produced three different models with manual transmission by three or four marches, only round headlight and equipped (with the exception of the original PK 50) of the directional arrows. The models are 50S PK , PK 50XL and PK Rush 50 and have been very successful for the remarkable similarity with the PX models. Only models , PK 50 , PK 50 S and PK 50 XL could have the optional mileage, model PK 50 Rush had a single block containing round lights, speed indicators and compound level, never contained in the other models.
Vespa PK 50 Elestart
Same pattern of PK 50, available in models 50S PK , PK 50XL and 50 PK Rush , with the addition of the electronic starting a cold engine with the starter button under the throttle. Unlike the 50 Elestart derived from the 50 Special, had a starter motor in part instead of having the coil which was also the electric motor.
Vespa PK 50 Automatic
Model, along with the 125 version Automatic, which has probably contributed to the evolution of today’s scooter had replaced the clutch and manual gearbox with three / four-speed transmission, the transmission automatically when the drive and centrifugal clutch . He had removed the rear brake pedal, putting it on the left arm instead of the clutch instead of the marches, had the “insane” and “homing”, which was to be engaged only at low revs to avoid the “scratching” the gears graft.
Vespa PK 50 Automatic Elestart
Mixed model design: a continuously variable automatic transmission with electronic ignition and starter.
Vespa FL2 50
The Vespa 50 FL2 (also known in slang because dell’inedito V Vespa branded logo on the door of the glove compartment) was produced from 1990 to 1992. Next to the PK model, is very similar to the 50 HP that follows, from which it differs in the instrument panel from different background color and the number of spies, reduced to 3 to 4 than the newer model.
Mechanically it still has the cast iron cylinder that will instead be replaced by aluminum in the HP, is fed by a carburetor Dell’Orto 16/12, is equipped with three-speed gear and is equipped with an electric starter. It does not have the crank to put the motion but it is just electric.
Vespa 50 HP
Vespa 50 HP
The Vespa 50 HP was produced from 1991 to 1999, namely: 3-speed model from 1991 to 1993 model 4-speed from 1993 to 1999 . Unlike the past 50 Wasps mounted several pieces in plastic , like the fender, the flange under the seat and the rear grille (aesthetically a continuation of the saddle). Came as standard to the cylinder in aluminum , as well as a carburetor slightly increased (from 16:10 to 16:12, as other versions PK). It was also equipped with a starter, already introduced in the N and FL2 in previous years and had 4 hp (horsepower) to the wheel. Series was also the ‘ crankshaft and flywheel advance ever made, weighing just 1.35 kg. Vespa was the youth of the ’90s, however, marked the end of production of the Vespa 50 with manual transmission because it could not comply with the anti-pollution Euro 1 . In 1999 he was replaced by the Vespa ET2, completely new model with a continuously-variable transmission and engine of the modern conception. Different variants over the years.
Vespa 90 SS
Vespa 90 SS where SS stands for Super Sprint , a version was produced from 1965 to 1971 in 5309 copies and was the ‘ icon of a generation of sports scooter. Had a displacement of 88.5 cm 3 and 6 hp at 6000 r / min. It is preferred at the time the version 50 (for the lack of driving license) or 125 (for the higher power). Thus, it was a failure because very few models were sold and is still one of the most sought after Vespas.
Characteristic handlebars sporting a spare tire mounted centrally on the bridge and overhung by a fake tank on a kind of cushion useful in reaching the lying position from the track. Was produced for the Italian market in two colors, red and peacock blue, the first in two shades, for foreign markets was also produced in white livery, there was also a small production of wasp ss 50 and had the same frame older sister (ie with the dummy fuel tank, the handle and the shield sports “aero”) but with a detuned engine.
Vespa V 98 “farobasso”
Vespa “farobasso”
Produced from 1946 to 1948 in two series which differ in some improvements, was characterized by the fact that instead of on the steering was light on the front fender. As an option you could put an odometer, but unlike other wasps had the handlebar without metal coatings and could therefore be subject to vandalism or theft. Required maintenance, but that date was designed to survive the long journeys to the possible dangers of war, like the piercing of an eraser. Had no rear suspension, and this function was performed by the springs of the seat.
Vespa Spring 125
Vespa Spring 125
The Vespa 125 was released in Spring 1968 to replace the Nuova 125 . He had an engine of 124 cc ignition points and was produced in three series: the first had the tail light type SS 90 , 125 wasp had written in italics on the front shield and spring over the taillight, the second written in the same light but letters (from 1973, the exchange of written part of Piaggio). In the period 74-76, the 125 was sold in spring color BROWN METALLIC Cod MM 1.268.5130 (PIA 130) with saddle brown, the third exit along with ET3 , same light, but written with a new design. She was successful on the market thanks to the brilliant performance and the line that pleased everyone, including girls. Was discontinued in 1982 , together with the ET3.
Vespa 125 Primavera ET3
The Vespa 125 Primavera ET3 was founded in 1976 alongside a model already in production, the Vespa 125 Primavera . From this the ET3 differs from a technical point of view, thanks to a new electronic ignition control unit managed by Ducati , no more pins to platinum. This, in addition to ensure prompt ignition in all conditions, allows the engine to “turn” to other regimes with greater regularity to the benefit of performance.
Another novelty is the presence of three transfer ports in the cylinder instead of two (ET3 3 = Electronics Racking) that give the Vespa ET3 more inspiration and more speed rush. A new muffler “torpedo” similar to the one already mounted by Piaggio on 90SS , a saddle more comfortable, some details painted Anthracite (coprimolleggio front flywheel cover and front axle) and the adhesive side with the word “Electronic” complete the birth of this model, the most popular thanks to its agility, power and aesthetic success. Remain in production until 1982 .
Vespa PK 125
Vespa PK 125S
The Vespa PK is considered the legitimate heir, a magazine in an aesthetic of the 80 Vespa Primavera, and which has the same cylinder. Produced from 1982 , and 1984 advance on power, characterized by the term “electronic” on his stomach on the left. It is considered in all respects a wasp “small frame”, but not as small as 50 or 125 Spring Special is suitable for Vespa riders of any height. There is a basic version, distinguished by the absence of S in the acronym, it does not have the arrows and the trunk compartment behind the shield. In addition there are the following series, magazines aesthetics in the central part of the shield, ending much more subtle, in-dash, upgraded instrumentation, which in the original version only includes a speedometer-odometer round, two lights (headlights and turn signals) integrated in an outer vertical rectangle above the instrument, and in the back where the rear lights are integrated in a plastic shell and gems of very thin arrows: this series is called PK-XL.
Specifications: 2-stroke engine , from 121 cc cylinder. (Mm.55 bore, stroke mm.51) at 45 ° fueled by a mixture of gasoline and oil to 2% by gravity, air cooled, carburetor Dell’Orto SHBC 19-19 / E, kick start, change in knob 4-speed clutch in oil bath, front drum brakes (plus) and rear wheels 10 inch, 3.00-10r tires. Like all wasps with manual transmission has no secondary transmission, but the drive wheel is pivoted “cantilever” directly on the secondary output from the gearbox.
Vespa PK 125 Elestart
Same pattern of PK 125, with only the addition of electric starter plant powered by a battery.
Vespa PK 125 Automatic
Model of PK 125, that instead of having the four-speed transmission, the rear brake pedal and the manual clutch, is provided with continuous transmission variomatic with automatic clutch in the centrifuge, and the rear brake lever operated with the left. As for the shifter you can activate the “insane” and “homing”.
Vespa PK 125 Automatic Elestart
Model design mixed between automatic transmission and electronic starter.
Vespa P 125 ETS
The Vespa P 125 ETS, produced from 1984 to 1986 , also available with electric start, was the Vespa “small-frame” the most powerful ever produced: it can be said to be the heir of the famous Primavera ET3 . The novelty of this model were manifold, such as the brake front drum double oil, for increased braking, or the headlight of increased diameter. But the biggest news about the engine: cylinder cast iron with PFC slightly to increase the liveliness, carburetor SHBC 20/20 L, muffler designed for the phases of the cylinder (remember the muffler to torpedo the ET3), early tree (also opening crankcase you will also notice a longer delay due to the intake valve on the crankcase extended down), a taper shaft / flywheel plus 20mm (since then all the other Wasps PK) and a seat cushion from 24mm to increase significantly the ‘reliability. The only Vespa 125 most powerful and fastest of the ETS was the only Vespa T5.
Vespa 125 T5
Vespa T5
The T5 model was built from 1985 to 1989 . He was a sports model, constructed based on the Vespa PX, which differed from the rectangular headlight, the fairing plastic on the handlebar , the more vertical tail, the largest instrumentation with tachometer electronic, for a cruise of the exchange rate changed to to avoid the strong tac changed during the fast, for the nose pad in front of more pointed, for the stroke shorter than that of the PX (52 mm against 57mm), for the bearings of the chassis dynamometer instead of ball and, most important difference, the 5 transfer ports of the cylinder instead of 3 (hence the name T5). It was also streamlined , thanks to a series of smaller changes as the fender, the fan at the base of the shield and the windshield. The first production models worked to blend gasoline / oil (2% of the latter) with the option to adopt the automatic mixer; following the blender became standard. In a second stage of production, the parent company introduced the mirrors directly into the structure of the handlebar, aiming at achieving greater efficiency in the rear view than that which could be obtained due to inefficient mirrors manufactured by certain companies operating in the field of spare parts “after market”. The maximum speed of T5 was 108 km / h , which is reached with relative ease, thanks to the power delivery curve rather pointed.
Conversely, the T5 was not particularly brilliant in the second half, showing an obvious laziness to take laps in the low and intermediate regimes, often forcing a shift up to send the engine “in pairs”. To good overall performance of the engine, made a couple discrete overall balance of the frame, suitably accommodated by brakes (drum) improved efficiency compared to those of the Vespa from which derived. Quite high – more than the reference model – were the fuel consumption.
The Vespa T5 is still used by many driving schools for practical examinations of the driving license A1 and A2. In sports also, this Vespa model (with the even more rare PK Auto) was the prize that was given to those who gained the pole position at Monza Grand Prix in the Formula 1 Championship. For this reason, the Piaggio had also been put on the model of Vespa T5 POLE POSITION. The Formula 1 drivers who have received a reward or a Vespa T5 Automatic Ayrton Senna and Nelson Piquet are.
Vespa PX 125/150/200
Today Vespa PX 200
The Vespa “New Line”, also called “PX” was a great revolution in Piaggio. In 1977 he was once taught in three powertrains for Piaggio classic, 125, 150 and 200, PX embodied “the wasp of the future”: new bodywork , different bends of the handlebar, fork with anti-dive front revisited, agile and charged immediately very successful among the public.
The first PX did not have turn signals, while not mandatory, but were available as an accessory. Become standard since 1980. In series and the automatic mixer option of petrol. Remained virtually unchanged until the end of 1999, irrespective of changes of detail introduced in the series “Rainbow” at the end of 1984 and new colors introduced from time to time, in 1999 comes the most awaited change: the front brake disc. Coupled to the mixer and the standard automatic halogen front are the most important changes in the whole production of the model. All equipment that increased active safety (the ” Vespa hours brakes and lights the way … “) and reliability. It is out of production in February 2008 after 30 years of glorious career, more choice of producer for the difficulty of clearly established approved Euro 3 engines. The fact remains that since then the image of the Vespa PX is preserved by its enactment that LML India, imported in Italy, is homologated Euro 3 and are not affected by a particular motor limitations. Before the withdrawal from the market version of the PX, Piaggio has produced a limited edition of 1000 copies of the P125X and white livery with a nameplate bearing the words “Last P125X Series” and the serial number. Sold at 4500 euro is sold out within two weeks, confirming the passion for this medium.
The Vespa PX 125 and PX 150 was resubmitted to ‘ EICMA 2010 in version 3 euros (still with 2-stroke engine) and the year 2011 is for sale again.
Vespa GS VS1 / 5 150
Born in 1955, produced in 5 series until 1961. Motoristicamente inspired by the very first sports scooter Piaggio, Vespa 6 Days, The GS (Gran Sport) is an attempt to make the scooter in Pontedera competitive with small light motorcycles of the period, reaching 100 km / h. The motor in relation to contemporary versions of the GS is powered directly plugged into the carburetor and the cylinder, the body is tapered for better air penetration. The first model (VS1) is distinguished from other subsequent to have the cables that pass outside of the handlebar.
Vespa VBA 150
Vespa 150 VBA
In 1959 , following the renewal of the range, Piaggio’s Vespa 150 VBA into production based on the new chassis derived from the 125 ’58. The VBA model introduces an innovation that will become the workhorse of the Vespa until today: the engine intake rotary valve . The Vespa VBA had a great success and laid the foundation for all models 125 and 150 cm 3 of the sixties .
Vespa 150 VBB1
Born in 1961, going on to VBA which inherits the engine, which had already undergone major changes, is introduced fourth marcia.Il VBB1 engine operation has a 2% mixture of oil , allowing even lower operating costs and a smoother operation, in addition to reduce emissions and have considerable reliability. With a few modifications, is still produced and used on Vespa PX 125 and 150.
Vespa GS 160
The soubrette television Gloria Paul portrayed astride a Vespa
The Vespa 160GS, produced from 1962 to 1964 , is the sport model that replaces the GS 150. At the time, is the Vespa model with cubic highest ever produced.
Compared to the Vespa GS 150 boasts all-new chassis and engine, an unprecedented suspension front where the ‘ shock integrates the spring (a solution that will then be taken on all Small Frame models and PX series), integrated spare tire under the belly of the left, an original glovebox proceeds posteriorly. This is an exclusive feature of the first models produced, identified as “160 GS first series.”
In the next set will be adopted, for the first time, the top box front, attached to the back of the shield. Represents the best of: is fast and elegant, reaches 103 km / h of speed maximum, due to 8.9 hp maximum power.
It is produced in a single color light gray, and combined with a saddle. Will be replaced in 1964 by Vespa 180 SS.
Vespa 180 SS
The Vespa 180SS, produced from 1964 to 1968 , reference frame VSC1T …. is the sporty model that replaces the GS 160. At the time, is the Vespa model with cubic highest ever produced. It was powered with a 5% blend, had the spare tire located under the belly and the left were taken on both the front trunk, attached to the back of the shield that the handlebars and headlight trapezoidal GL.È 150 was produced in two versions, one with ignition key over the handlebars and battery (like the GS 160). And a second series without a key, battery. Represents the best of production: it’s fast, comfortable and elegant, reaches 105 km / h to speed up, thanks to 10 hp maximum power.
Vespa Rally 180
Vespa Rally 200
Founded in 1968 with chassis number 001001 VSD1T and produced until 1973 0027495 VSD1T used a tuned muffler high yield but very low noise, a melting pot of technology for its time; carburetor Dell’Orto SI20/20. Available in four colors: yellow positano, yellow, orange, chrome yellow and metallic silver.
The highlight of the house Piaggio, the successor of the GS: the Vespa Rally 180. The engine always has the same displacement in the 180 SS but changes radically in the power system: the old system leaves room for admission cross lights controlled by the rotating crankshaft web, solution already tested by Piaggio but on smaller cubic volume. In reality, the 180 cc. Vespa Rally are given by a slight variation of bore and stroke who now 63.5 mm respectively. x 57 mm. The muffler is new, more powerful and silent. Aesthetically it is a mix between the 180 SS and Sprint with the exception of the handlebars which is newly designed, light, and odometer including knobs. The fork is a throwback with a separate spring from the shock.
Vespa Rally 200
The Vespa Rally 200, 180 model derived from the rally, is a scooter designed for fast motion. Model was the fastest and most powerful Vespa ever produced from home Piaggio, produced from 1972 to 1979 boasted a speed of no less than 116 km / h and 12 hp .
line of 200 (next to 180) was enhanced by adhesive strips of color White hoods and fenders, which went to show the advantage of electronics (there were electronic lettering) which lacked the forerunner 180.
It was one of the models to be equipped with power electronics and optional boasted the mixer automatically.
It is one of the most reliable and sought-wasps.
Vespa LX
Out on the occasion of the sixtieth anniversary of the birth of the Vespa brand, the LX incorporates aesthetic lines of the old models in the modern version.
Vespa GTS 300 Super
The GTS 300 is, in the history of the Vespa, the 145 ° model made in series from the house of Pontedera [3] . The official presentation took place during 2009 .
The Vespa Piaggio P.108 and
To learn more, see the entry Piaggio P.108 .
It is generally believed that the famous scooter developed by the firm of Pontedera in 1946 is intimately linked to the general plane four engines, because:
the wheels of the Vespa would be the tail of the four-caster;
the Vespa would be a starter motor of radial engines of the plane.
The two facts are really only two urban legends . To be precise, the Piaggio radial engines, like most Italian engines of that period used the compressed air from a cylinder loaded by a “aviocompressore” Garelli , with characteristics different from those of the first engines appeared on the Vespa. Piaggio’s archives there are also tracks for use in aircraft parts motorcycle. Although no piece derives from that of a plane, “aviation” there is still the designer, Corradino D’Ascanio , and support “pipe” of the wheel front, derived from that of the carriages of planes. The metal structure of the Vespa is connected to the “workers Coatings”, used in aviation (and in this sense was the crucial work of the engineer Renzo Spolti, coming precisely from the aviation industry, and who designed the progenitor of the Vespa The MP5 – Moto Piaggio Donald ).