Vespa Returns

VESPA RETURNS

The venerable Vespa two-stroke motorscooter first buzzed onto the Italian scene in 1946, and hasn’t changed a whole lot since. Until now, that is: Parent company Piaggio recently introduced a new Vespa model called the ET4, and it’s a clean-burning four-stroke!

Powered by an air-cooled 125cc Single, the ET4 is equipped with an automatic transmission, belt drive and a front disc brake. Its claimed power output of 12 horsepower is said to be good for 65 mph.

In typically Italian fashion, the ET4 includes a few incidentals to appease the Vespatisti: A theft-deterrent system, helmet storage compartment and digital clock come standard, and a windscreen and trunk are optional.

Best of all, it looks as though Vespas may once again be available in America. San Diego-based Scootermania! (619/ 223-7246) hopes to import the ET4 in nine colors, with a price around $4000. Looks like it’s time to start brushing up on your Italian...