Vespa Sprint Road Test - Road Test
Vespa winks young and throws 2014 new Vespa Sprint, "Sporty vespino", associated with name and style. scooter which whole generations have dreamed of in the 60s.
He was born out of a recent project. Vespa Primavera and is already available at official dealerships with 50cc engines. cm and 125 cc. cm.
It is sold in combination with new colors (Blu Gaiola and Giallo Positano, which are added to the classic colors) with Prices which start at € 2.890 for a 50cc 2-stroke engine. cm, 2.990 € 4 for a XNUMX-stroke engine. 3.900 euros for 125cc.
We tried it for you on the streets of the capital.
Vespa, a growing brand
Vespa Sprint collects the legacy of the fastest, sportiest and youngest Vespas. This is achieved by maintaining the style that has always distinguished them, but using the best technology they create. new Vespa real gems.
It's really no coincidence that the brand's success has grown over the years. A few facts: the production of Vespa worldwide in 2013 reached a record level. almost 190.000 units.
“In 2004, the total number of Vespas sold was just over 58.000 – сказал Stefano Sterpone, Commercial Director of the Piaggio Group for Europe, the Middle East and Africa and the Americas -. In ten years, more than XNUMX million new Vespas have made their way to buyers and on the streets of every country in the world.
Thus, almost seventy years after its birth, the Vespa is an outstanding phenomenon “Made in Italy”, a symbol of our know-how in terms of both style and technology. ".
How Vespa Sprint is made
From the models of the 60s, the new Vespa Sprint retains the charm, but also some aesthetic elements: sporty design saddle – which in this case is distinguished by a refined white finish – and rectangular headlight (like the old Specials).
But what immediately catches your eye is new 12-inch aluminum alloy wheels, unprecedented dimensions for Vespa's "small body". Instead, 16,6 liters is the amount of space under the saddle that can fit a full-size helmet, thanks to the space created by moving the battery into the center tunnel of the platform.
Also new is the square-shaped handrail for the passenger. The instrument cluster, protected by a barely visible spoiler, gets a new black background for the speedometer, and the multifunction digital panel gets a more aggressive red backlight.
The same hue is repeated in the new "tie" trim on the shield and front spring, an element that emphasizes the Sprint's racing character.
The picture is complemented Led lights which we find in the front (parking lights) and in the back (stop). The electrical controls have been inserted into real "wristbands" that, thanks to the chrome finish, are truly separate from everything else (like the old gearbox / clutch on the left side of the steering wheel).
Vespa Sprint it is obvious that it is equipped steel body – the element that has always set the Vespa apart from any other scooter in the world – is reinforced for excellent handling and stability.
La new front suspension It has a shock absorber attached to an aluminum support that connects it to the wheel with a pivot pin, while previously it was secured with two screws.
"The Vespa Sprint has the best performance and superior level of finish and build quality, and represents the most modern and contemporary expression of the timeless Vespa concept."Specified Alessandro Bagnoli, Technical Manager for Scooters of the Piaggio Group.
engines
Vespa Sprint it is available on the market with two displacements and three motors: two 50cc (two and four beats) e 125cc with distribution 3 valves... This is already known single cylinder, 4-stroke, air-cooled, with one overhead camshaft with 3 valves (2 inlet and 1 outlet), the solution that provides the best balance between performance and fuel consumption.
Which, according to the stated data, are clearly low: reaches 64 km / l at a speed of 50 km / h., with long service intervals (scheduled service every 10.000 km).
Vespa accessories
The Vespa accessories catalog is rich and varied, which allows you to customize it for yourself. IN aluminum alloy rim The 12-inch car is also available in an exclusive dark color that underlines the Sprint's energetic character.
There is special top case, with chrome support can also be used as a rack. For aerodynamic protection, there is a windshield (transparent or smoky) and a classic one. windshield... And again: foot cover, clothes, special bags and a wide range new helmets.
"The Vespa Sprint is aimed at a young audience and those looking for a Vespa primarily for fun and driving pleasure, even on everyday commutes."he states Marco Lambre, Head of the Piaggio Group Style Center.
Vespa Sprint road test
Rome is probably the perfect place to try a new one Vespa Sprint. Wandering the streets of the capital with Pontedera's new little gem is a real treat.
La Driving Position it's good and convenient. Despite the slightly increased ground clearance - also due to the 12-inch wheel - it's easy to put your foot on the ground, even for short stature, thanks to the correct saddle shape.
However, there is a lot of room for the legs during the march: so they did nothing wrong with those who have it for sale instead of centimeters in height.
La maneuverability this is of course the power of the new sprintbut stability he's pretty tall. The slightly rigid structure absorbs unevenness in the asphalt well enough. The new front suspension is smooth and well calibrated.
La braking it's efficient, doesn't bite: it's soft and modular, with the rear brake doing its job just fine; the anterior is deliberately more spongy.
Il engine 125cc 3V has a very linear power delivery, no tearing. He presses well and stretches exactly one hundred and twenty-five. Among other things, we have already appreciated this on the Primavera and on the LX 3V.
In short, by avoiding traffic jams on peak days and enjoying the streets of the metropolis at a trot and taking your time, you can do it, for better or for worse, on any scooter.
But if you prefer style, refinement and sportiness, if you do not want to go unnoticed and are looking for an exclusive vehicle that is recognized as such around the world, then the Vespa Sprint may be the right choice.
