Vespa PX 125

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Vespa PX125

Make Model	Vespa PX125
Year	1998 - 02
Engine	Single cylinder, 2 stroke
Capacity	123.4 cc 7.5 cub in
Bore x Stroke	52.5 x 57 mm
Cooling	Air cooled, centrifugal fan
Fuel Mixture	1:50
Ignition	CDI
Starting	Kick start
Clutch	Wet, multiplate
Max Power	8.8 kW / 12 hp @ 6600 rpm
Max Torque	9.6 Nm / 1.0 kgf-m / 7.1 ft/lb @ 6000 rpm
Transmission	4 Speed, grip-shift, constant mesh
Final Drive	Direct drive
Frame	Pressed sheet steel, streamlined monocoque structure
Front Suspension	Link arm with coil spring and dual action hydraulic shock absorber
Rear Suspension	Engine and transmission serve as swingarm, dual action shock absorber
Front Brakes	200 mm single disc
Rear Brakes	150 mm expanding drum
Wheels	Alloy
Front Tyre	110/70-11
Rear Tyre	120/70-11
Dimensions	Length: 1810 mm / 71.5 in Width: 740 mm / 29.1 in
Wheelbase	1260 mm / 49.7 in
Seat Height	810 mm / 31.9 in
Dry Weight	95 kg / 209 lbs
Fuel Capacity	8 L / 2.1 US gal
Reserve	2.5 L / 0.66 US gal
Consumption average	2.7 L/100 km / 37 km/l / 87 US mpg
Top Speed	90 km/h / 56 mph

The Vespa PX125 has essentially remained unchanged since its introduction in 1977, but it doesn't feel 35 years old. Subtle changes to keep the Vespa up to date and to get it through Euro 3 emissions regulations mean it feels similar to a modern scooter, only with a two-stroke, manual engine. It doesn't handle like a sportsbike - but a Vespa is all about looking cool, not going fast. Remember that and it can be great fun.

A two-stroke engine is a rare thing for any bike or scooter over 50cc today, so the 123cc two-stroke powering the PX125 is a welcome change of pace. It needs to be revved to get the best from it - trying to accelerate in too high a gear results in the motor bogging down. But keep the motor spinning and the PX will whisk happily along on a cloud of blue smoke.

Weighing in at a featherlight 95kg, bumps upset the little Vespa, especially mid-corner - it feels less like a motorcycle and more akin to a hardtail bicycle at times. But you've got to remember the Vespa isn't designed to be a sweet-handling sportsbike. Settle in to a more relaxed pace and it makes sense. Low speed handling is a doddle due to the weight and size.

Equipment-wise the PX is basic. A speedo and fuel gauge are all you get at the front, along with old-styled switchgear which feels clunky to operate. There's no underseat storage as you'd expect, instead there is a storage compartment in the leg shield under the dash - enough for a small-ish rucksack. There's also a bag hook in the footwell. The twist-shift for the four gears takes a little getting used, but a few minutes of riding soon sees you shifting easily. Because of the twist-shift on the left handlebar, the rear brake is in the right hand footwell which is extremely awkward.