Vespisti come across these terms again and again. It is therefore essential to know what they mean. In the end, it can also be very helpful when making a purchase decision, as all models have different features.
A Vespa Wideframe is the original Vespa
Simply translated, the model means “wide frame”. If you own such a model, you own a piece of Vespa history. It differs from later models due to its particularly wide frame and is of great interest to collectors and lovers of historic two-wheelers.
There were further differences in the engines, the chassis and other components. The Wideframe was generally an extremely robust scooter.
Popular models from the Wideframe series
- the Vespa 98 was the very first model. It appeared in 1946 as the original Vespa and became a pioneer. At 60 km/h, it reached an astonishing speed for the time. Because of its striking appearance, it was nicknamed the Paperino (duckling in German). It was available in two different versions in 1946 and 1947, but each with the same engine
- the Vespa model 125 was built as the successor to the 98 in a wide variety of versions. It already had a 125 cc radial cylinder engine and was equipped with a useful side stand for the first time. This model was regarded as the backbone for further and later models
- Vespa VBA, successor model to the 125, characterized by numerous technical improvements
- Vespa VBB, a further developed model of the 125 series, the most memorable feature was the round headlight mask
- Vespa 150 GS, with a displacement of 150 cc it reached 100 km/h
Summary of the most important features of a Wideframe
- Harmoniously rounded rear, filigree contours
- tubular handlebars
- Inspection flap in the step-through
- Carburetor flap in the frame
- swingarms mounted separately from the engine
- Headlight on the front mudguard
For a deeper insight into the model series, there is a detailed article here: “Vespa Wideframe model history”
How the high historical value of a Wideframe is explained
Given that this was the first generation of Vespa, it soon became a coveted collector’s item. It was robust and therefore durable. The bottom line is that every Wideframe model has its own character and therefore its own history.
The elegant lines are visually captivating. Crowned with the Faro Basso (“headlight” at the bottom, mounted on the front mudguard), which only later moved to the handlebars. Perhaps the most significant milestone in the development of the Wideframe models was the switch from single to dual-channel engines. By the standards of the time, the drives provided considerably more power.
Special Vespa Sport model “Sei Giorni”
This sporty development was created especially for the six-day race “Sei Giorni Internationale di Varese”. As this model dominated the race series in 1951, winning no fewer than 9 gold medals, it was used from then on for experimental purposes.
Many of the components tested in this scooter were used in the series production of later models. For example, the 150 GS (in Germany this machine was christened the GS3). This German model was built in Augsburg by the Messerschmidt company.
By the way:
In general, all model versions that had the light mounted on the tubular handlebars instead of Faro Basso (headlight on the front mudguard) were equipped with a displacement of 150 cc.
Vespa Largeframe model
The multi-piece, bolted-together frame became a frame in a single casting. This made the frame slimmer and more stable. Simplified design of the carburetor, which was now located directly above the cylinder. More power thanks to larger engines. The slimmer lines gave these models a more modern look.
Popular models from the Largeframe series:
- GS
- GL
- VBB
- VNA
- Rallye
- PX
Note:
VNA stands for V=Vespa, N=125 ccm, A=early model series
VBB for V=Vespa, B=150 ccm, B=for later model series
Each of the aforementioned models had its own fan base.
Largeframe models also enjoy a high collector’s value these days. They should therefore be kept in well-maintained condition and with as much original equipment as possible. This should not be a major problem, as the selection of spare parts (both original and reproduced) is very large. This statement applies to all Vespa models.
For all those interested in this model series, there is also an extra article with more details: “Vespa Largeframe model customer”
Smallframe
As the name suggests, the Smallframe is significantly slimmer and lighter. The compact frame makes this iconic Vespa extremely manoeuvrable. It is therefore ideally suited for city traffic. The dimensions of a parking space are also manageable. Well-known and popular Smallframe models:
- Vespa 50, this first model in the Smallframe series was launched in 1963
- Vespa Primavera, this model became a classic thanks to its new, fresh design
- Vespa PK, this model series was available in a wide variety of versions
- Vespa ET3, sporty model with 125 cc displacement. These models are characterized by very good acceleration
There is also a detailed article for the “small frame”: “Vespa Smallframe model customer”
Conclusion
We have only provided a rough overview here so that the three main terms are explained together. SIP Scootershop has spare parts, accessories and add-on parts for all your Vespa needs, regardless of the model and series.
One more thing is very important to us
We Vespisti are sometimes told that our scooters are never state of the art. This means that environmental compatibility is by no means satisfied. The Vespa smokes and stinks. We cannot and do not want to accept this.
Our Vespa has never gone out of fashion thanks to its timeless design. What’s more, DIY repairs are possible on many models, provided the Vespisti is suitable. This fact alone gives the Vespa scooter a great stamp of sustainability.
Let’s not even begin to mention the not inconsiderable worldwide significance in terms of culture, lifestyle and leisure value. In addition, after the Second World War, the Vespa was one of the few inexpensive and, above all, robust means of transportation. It boosted the largely desolate economy.
With this in mind: Have a safe journey at all times!
