The Vespa: 5 Things You Probably Didn't Know

Flickr: Illusive Photography / Creative Commons

Summer in Seattle practically begs to be seen on the back of a Vespa. In case you haven’t heard, we’re giving one away in just a couple of weeks! To fuel your drive to win, we’ve gathered some interesting facts about the two-wheeled wonder. 

1. Saving the World

The Vespa was created post World War II as a means of addressing Italy’s urgent need for a modern, inexpensive mode of transportation for the masses. Fast-forward nearly 70 years and it’s still the affordable, eco-friendly option for commuters.

2. Star Appeal

After Audrey Hepburn hopped on Gregory Peck’s Vespa in Roman Holiday, Vespa sales took off stateside. Everyone from John Wayne to Dean Martin was using the scooter to jet between sets. To this day, the Vespa is the ride of choice among A-listers. 

3. Buzzing Around Town

Vespa means “wasp” in Italian. Vespa manufacturer Piaggio also makes an obscure, three-wheeled ride called the Apé (pronounced Ah-pay), which means “bee.”

4. A Better Bike

Known for being light, manageable, and easy to park, the 50cc was designed for urban living. This model is also roomy enough for two, in case you want to reenact Roman Holiday. But riders beware: riding two up on our hilly streets is not recommended.

5. Worldwide Vespa-demic

More than 16 million Vespa scooters have been sold worldwide since 1946. Naturally, with so many Vespa enthusiasts, scooter-centric clubs began forming around the globe. Vespa Club of Seattle organizes Scooter Insanity each year, one of the oldest and largest gatherings of scooter fans in the Pacific Northwest.

Visit any of our participating locations through July 13 for your chance to win a Vespa LX 50cc 4V from Vespa Seattle! We will randomly select a winner at noon on July 21.