Legends of Scooter Sport: Vespa VBB
The Vespa VBB may not be the fastest, best performing, or the most acclaimed Vespa ever made but I think the VBB is the epitome of what everyone pictures when thinking of a Vespa. The VBB was produced approximately from 1960-1967 (I can't find concrete details on their production run) and was one of the first Vespas that could truly be called reliable. They had enough power to keep up with most traffic and had a curvy, sexy body that screams classic Italian scooter.
The VBB was powered by a 145cc, single piston, 2-stroke making about 6 horsepower. It was the first Vespa to feature a 4-speed transmission and shifted via the classic Vespa left grip shifter. Vespa stated the VBB weighed in at 200 lbs and was capable of reaching 58MPH. To hit 58MPH I would guess they probably tested the top speed going downhill. VBB's came with 8" wheels and had a range of 230 miles.
It was the 60s and like most other 2-strokes of the time it's premix (2% ratio) and has 6V electronics. The motor is completely square with a bore and stroke of 57mm making the power delivery smooth and not too peaky (well so speaking for a 2-stroke).
To be honest, my favorite part of the VBB is the styling. I think they're absolutely gorgeous. Something about the smooth lines, small handlebars, and double seat really speaks to me. For the next Scooter-News DIY project (after my dad's CT70) I want to get something Italian. If I can find a beater VBB, I would pick one up in a heartbeat. After all, the Vespa VBB is a legend of scooter sport.
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Comments
Most of the Allstates were stripped down VNB 125cc. Same body parts as the VBB. They could be comical and dangerous to ride with no dampening on the front wheel. Many did not even come with a speedometer.
Quoting Ryan Carden: Quote
Most of the 60's Allstate Vespas were VNB. Similar to the VBB but 125cc and a different speedometer. A few years had 3 speed gearboxes and a few had 4 speed gearboxes. Generally the same frame, seat, cowls, rims, tank and rear shock as a contemporary VBB. The rest has little differences that only the more annoying trainspotter makes a big deal about. The most signifcant difference is the lack of a front dampener on the Allstate VNBs. Quote
I had the pleasure to work with Plauto Magnioli who had been with Piaggio since before WWII. Plauto always said the VBB was the "real Vespa".
The VBB was also manufactured in other places besides Italy. My wife had one of the rare Douglas VBBs which was made in England.
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