This week I exchanged my light blue Mio scooter for a brand new Vespa. To celebrate this event, I am  dedicating this post to the most design oriented 2 wheel vehicle that ever existed.

This is my lovely Mio and following is my new Vespa.

 

Vespa scooters are manufactured by the Italian company Piaggio since 1946. The meaning of the name is “wasp” in Italian.

 

The purpose of the broad front part of the Vespa is to protect the rider from wind, dust and mud.

The event which increased the sales and made the Vespa a hit was the debut of the 1953 movie “Holiday in Rome” in which Gregory Peck took Audrey Hepburn for a ride on his Vespa scooter around the city.

In the 60’s, the Vespa scooters, which symbolized freedom and creativity, experienced another popularity boost which resulted in more sales.

In the city of Piza, Italy there is a museum dedicated to the Piaggio company and features many Vespa scooters from different eras, including one which was designed by Salvador Dali.

It’s been told that the front part of the Vespa seat is risen so that when a girl rides it with a mini skirt, it will cover what doesn’t need to be shown…

 

 

There have been 138 different versions of the Vespa so far.

 

 

I’m going out for a ride. See you on my next post!