About the Ride: Vespa
So far, we’ve written plenty about running, less about riding. So this blog is all about the ride. For us, that means Italian scooters. More specifically, Vespas. Not that we’re fussy 😜
Now in reality, for R+R, the ride can be just about anything with two wheels. Personally we’d recommend something with an engine, or maybe even a battery. Unless that is, you’re a particular brand of hardcore that can cycle over mountains and follow that up by running over mountains. In which case, full respect 👊
Anyway, its less about the type of ride and more about the experience of the ride. We ride for the same reasons we run trails; for the sense of adventure and freedom.
Some of our most vivid childhood memories involve time on two wheels. Who can still recall their first bike? If you’re anything like me you can remember them all!
Regardless, you’re unlikely to have forgetten that very first sense of freedom and independence you experienced from two wheels. And if you have, its time for a reminder!
Now all that said, people naturally have personal preferences. Just as we may have a preferred brand of trail shoe or running gadget, so it is with our ride. And a good thing too – before we see the world become fully Tesla-erised (yeh, I just made that word up).
So when we talk about the ride, we talk about Vespas, ‘cos that’s the way we roll. And here’s why…
The Piaggio Vespa
Well for starters, just look at these curves! Style doesn’t come more timeless than this. And to think the Vespa was designed more with practicality and affordability in mind, than aesthetics.
From such humble origins, in 1946 Pontedera, Italy, the Vespa (meaning “wasp” in Italian), was born. And who could have imagined Enrico Piaggio’s vision to create a low-cost vehicle for the masses, would prove to be such a phenomenal success.
That curvaceous body was actually designed to protect the driver against dirt and general dishevelment (honourable goals!). And the riding position, innovative at the time, was intended to allow the rider to sit comfortably and safely, rather than balanced more precariously on a high-wheel motorcycle.
Over the course of the last 75 years, its safe to say the Vespa has become a motoring icon. During these past decades it has grown from humble, two-seated transport for the masses to feature on Hollywood’s big screen (Roman Holiday), the UK’s er, smaller screen (Quadrophenia) and become synonymous with one of the most enduring British youth sub-cultures, the Modernists or “Mods”, a scene still thriving today. All this, and more, has helped cement the legend that is Vespa.
But its not only looks that make Vespa special. Or those humble origins and seven and a half decades of storied history. Its about much more. Because, as we say, its about the ride.
And the classic Vespa ride is a LOT of fun. The mechanics, the 2-stroke engine, the handlebar gears and small 8 inch wheels. It’s a visceral blend of sound, sight and smell. And it all combines to deliver a unique riding experience: kick the starter, engine putters into life, pull back the accelerator, pffft pffft, small plume of blue smoke. Clink the left grip into gear and pull back the throttle…
Sorry if I lost you there. Vespa fans will get it. In fact, anyone who’s ever ridden a classic motorcycle will get it. The mechanical connection from kickstart to gear change; a conscious partnership with machine. A classic is ridden with purpose and feeling.
Unlike modern day twist-and-go scooters, aka “flying carpets”, where you simply press a button to fire up the engine/battery, twist the throttle and away you go. Not that you can’t also get your freedom kicks from these vehicles. And with the advent of electric its inevitably where we’re headed. There’s a lot to be said for both I think. Modern or Classic? Now that’s a whole other blog….
