New Model Vespa, Piaggio

* Vespa ET2 (50 cc) & ET4 (125 cc & 150 cc) 1996-2005 * Vespa LX50 (50 cc) LX125 (125 cc) LX150 (150 cc) 2006 * Vespa GT125/GT200/GTS250ie * Vespa LXV125/LXV150/GTV/GT60 * Vespa PX125/150/200 * Vespa Cosa * Vespa PK 50/100/125 * Vespa ET3 * Vespa Primavera * Vespa V90 & V50 * Vespa GS150/160 * Vespa SS180 * Vespa Rally 180/200 * Vespa Sprint * Vespa Super 125/150 * Piaggio Ape 3-wheel submicro pickups. * Piaggio Porter 4-wheel micro-vans and micro-pickups, same as a Daihatsu Hijet. * Piaggio P180 Avanti business aircraft. * Piaggio MP3 3-wheel scooter. * Piaggio BV500 * X9 125/250 cc * X9 500 cc * BV200 / BV250 / BV500 * FLY50 * FLY125 * FLY150...

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scooter description

The classic scooter design features a "step-through" frame and a flat floorboard for the rider's feet. This design is possible because the scooter engine and drive system transferring power to the rear wheel is attached to the rear axle or under the seat. Unlike a motorcycle, where the engine is mounted on the frame, this front-hinged arrangement allows the engine to swing vertically together with the rear wheel. Older Vespas, most vintage scooters and some newer retro models have axle-mounted engines with a manual transmission and the gear shift and clutch controls built into the left handlebar. Most newer scooters use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).Unlike most motorcycles, scooters usually feature bodywork, including a front leg...

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Scooter (motorcycle) History

Scooter-like traits began to develop in motorcycle designs around the 1900s. In 1894, Hildebrand & Wolfmueller produced the first successful two-wheeler, with a step-through frame. Its fuel tank was mounted on the down tube, its parallel two-cylinder engine was mounted low on the frame, and its cylinders moved fore-and-aft. It was water-cooled and had a radiator built into the top of the rear fender. It became the first mass produced and publicly sold powered two-wheel vehicle, and among the first powered mainly by engine rather than foot pedals. Maximum speed was 40 km/h (25 mph). The rear wheel was driven by pistons similar to those in a locomotive. Only a few hundred such bikes were built, and the high price and technical difficulties...

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