Vespa 125
During 1951, many improvements were made on Vespa's. Old type of push-rod linkage (Bowden) was replaced by a new type of soft control cables for the shifter. Rear suspension was now fitted with an hydraulic shock absorber. The old style front coil spring type shock absorber was now supported by a new hydraulic absorber. The footboard is now longer for passenger and more comfort. It was easily distinguished by the exposed gear cables and the running boards. IIt was fitted with a Dellorto carburetor TA 17B . The rear brake was enhanced by increasing the width and diameter. The front wheel had a aluminium hubcap. Another difference was the gear change, with soft control cables replacing the earlier push-rod linkage. The fuel-oil mixture tap with its filter and key to open and lock the fuel reserve was particularly useful. From an aesthetical point of view, the rear lamp, round in the earlier models, was now rectangular; the saddle had a new colour and design – it was closed in front to hide the suspension movement. Very popular in those years, the 1951 model was the Vespa on which Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant made their romantic escapade in the unforgettable film Roman Holiday. |