Unique shaped scooters from the past

For those of you who may still be confused with the 'scooter' term and what is the difference with an ordinary motorcycle. The definition of 'scooter' is a type of two-wheeled vehicle or motorcycle with a frame that is one with the body (monocoque) so that its rider has a special platform to put his feet.

Unique shaped scooters (in pictured: Unibus scooter) from the past. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2UyYDZB)

Perhaps when it was first shown to the public in the past, its shape was not as we know it now. And maybe you will ask about how unique the shape of the scooter was when it first began to be developed in the past. Here're unique shaped of pioneered scooter was built in early 19th up to 20th centuries;

1. Hildebrand und Wolfmuller

Scooter design began to develop since 1914, but long before there's a German manufacturer named Hildebrand und Wolfmuller had pioneered the first model of scooter in early nineteenth century. But the Hildebrand und Wolfmuller models are not well developed due to the complexity of the design, including the rear wheels which are driven directly by the engine piston as well as on the steam locomotives.

This is Hildebrand und Wolfmüller motorcycle was brought by an Englishman named John C. Potter in 1893 and later known as the first motorcycle in Indonesia. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1Nwfrq1)

But amazingly, this German-made scooter was the figure of a motorcycle that first stopped in Indonesia (at that time still called the Dutch East Indies) which was imported directly by a British named John C. Potter in 1893. (Here's the full story).

2. Auto-Fauteuil

In 1902, a French manufacturer made a scooter named Auto-Fauteuil which is often regarded as one of the forerunners of the modern scooter. Unlike today's scooters, Auto-Fauteuil scooters drive the rear wheels with a chain system, just like an ordinary motorcycle. Its trademark is the rider's seat adopts a (house) chair model with arms and backrests.

Auto-Fauteuil 1908 model "Tour" 490 cc, water cooled, single frame. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2UR5VwD)

And the story behind the creation of this scooter is also quite unique, it all began when the French factory named Georges Gauthier and Cie. in Blois, Loir-et -Cher, which is actually an auto-parts manufacturer tried to make a scooter.

The scooter manufactured between 1902 and 1922 and the presence of these scooters was quite attention-grabbing in the eyes of the bikers of the era. At  first the power units were supplied by De Dion Bouton, but by 1906 Gauthier used his own engines. These engines could be ordered in several capacities, with magneto or battery and coil ignition and engines could be air-cooled or water cooled.

3. Autoped

Then the first generation of scooters was marked by the appearance of Autoped in 1915. The Autoped was an early motor scooter or motorized scooter manufactured by the Autoped Company of Long Island City, New York from 1915 to 1921.

1919 Autoped, (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2KXq9jQ)

To ride the Autoped had a unique way, namely the driver stood on a platform with 10-inch tires and operated the machine by pushing the handlebars forward, while for braking, the driver must pull the handlebars towards the rear.

Krupp licence-built Autoped with seat. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2KXq9jQ)

The engine was an air-cooled, 4-stroke, 155 cc engine over the front wheel. The bike came with a headlamp and tail lamp, a Klaxon horn, and a toolbox. Developed during wartime and gasoline rationing, it was quite efficient, but was not widely distributed and used (for example, used by traffic police officers).

4. Unibus

Next unique scooter is a scooter from England which is also included in the first generation scooter category. The scooter was named Unibus, ie a scooter produced by a British company called Gloster Aircraft Co. and before producing scooters, this British company founded in 1917 had been producing airplanes which were used during the first world war. And at the end of the war which was precisely in 1920, the company decided to switch to producing two-wheeled vehicles, namely Scooters.

Unibus scooter as display at the Jet Age Museum in Gloucestershire, England. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2DuB6Ds)

This unique scooter designer is Harold Boultbee who is also an engineer at those British manufacturing company. In its heyday, Unibus was a scooter that used a fairly sophisticated engine so many people at that time dubbed it "The Car On Two Wheels". The Unibus scooter uses a 2-stroke one-cylinder air-cooled engine with a capacity of 270 cc. These engine is capable of producing power up to 2.5 horsepower, which then delivers the power to the rear wheels through the two-speed manual transmission system. Then the legs that allow this scooter to roll on the road are a pair of 16-inch wheels.

With engine specifications that are fairly sophisticated at that time, of course it is not surprising that the selling price becomes expensive. Especially by carrying out an elegant design, then at that time, Unibus was considered a masterpiece. But as a result of the high price of these scooters, made it unsold on the market. So finally in 1922 the production was stopped. And for 2 years producing Unibus scooters, the British manufacturer only made 100 units. And if you currently feel interested and want to see this Unibus scooter figure, then you are advised to come up to the Jet Age Museum in Gloucestershire, England.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | SCOOTERNET.GR | YESTERDAYS | HITS FROM THE 80S&90S]

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BMW Motorrad introduces the future scooter figure

After some time ago giving an idea of ​​how the future of motorcycles will be in the next 100 years, BMW Motorrad is now back in the vision of urban mobility with zero emissions on their two-wheeled vehicles, which are called BMW Motorrad Concept Link.

BMW Motorrad unveiled the Concept Link as a study on the future of urban mobility. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Ae7gAB)

"BMW Motorrad Concept Link represents a new understanding of urban mobility," explained Edgar Heinrich, Head of Design at BMW Motorrad. "This vehicle connects the digital and analog worlds, and puts the focus on the driver and his mobility needs."

BMW Motorrad's Concept Link is the fifth model under the Vision Next 100 banner. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Ae7gAB)

"The focus on motorists is done by connecting functionality and digitization, which allows the vehicle to do both: as a means of transportation and also communication devices," Heinrich continued. "For me, BMW Motorrad Concept Link, with its timeless and minimalist styling, is more than just a concept; this will be a symbol of a new era of two-wheeled vehicles in the future. " 

A wide touch screen below the BMW Motorrad Concept Link's handlebars displays a wealth of information. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Ae7gAB)

BMW Motorrad Concept The link at first glance looks similar to the C Evolution scooter which was once introduced by BMW Motorrad some time ago. Concept Link seems to maintain a number of designs and shapes, while adding some sharp angles to the exterior, a more upright stance, and a more contrasting feel. 

Access to the storage compartment of the BMW Motorrad Concept Link is achieved from a sliding door on the right-hand side. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Ae7gAB)

Because the scooter's height is quite low, it seems easy for anyone to ride this scooter, whether it's from the side or even from behind. Concept Link is also equipped with reverse gear that makes it easier for vehicles to maneuver, making it ideal for narrow parking areas in urban areas. The seat can also be adjusted in length, according to the driver's desire.

Rear shock absorber and belt drive of the BMW Motorrad Concept Link. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Ae7gAB)

BMW Motorrad Concept Link also displays the latest technology used as part of the design package. That is why the side panels do not completely cover the side on the back. Instead, the panel extends on the side of the vehicle like a small wing, which allows a wider view of technical elements such as engines, cooling parts, swing arms, springs even to transmission belts.
At the same time, this design also helps improve airflow to support vehicle aerodynamics. As with its larger brother, BMW Motorrad Concept Link also keeps drivers connected when driving, through the Artificial Intelligence system that it carries.

This system studies driver habits and preferences, such as daily schedules, so the system can plan the fastest or best route; even choose the most suitable music if needed. It's cool too!

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BMW MOTORRAD | AUTOEVOLUTION]

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New Zapp maxi electric scooter finally revealed

The electric motorbike manufacturer from the UK, Zapp, introduces the newest Maxi scooter Zapp i300. This unique design motor has a weight of 90 kg. Power output reaches 14 kW, with a record acceleration of 0-48 km/h in just 2.4 seconds.

Zapp's new i300 electric scooter. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2R040Qv)

Zapp i300 is equipped with five cross rims, combined with 140/60 wide tire profile. The braking system uses 220 mm discs with four piston calipers plus ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).

In addition to wide tires, the impression of a sturdy Zapp i300 is obtained from the suspension upside down (USD) application and monoarm swing arm.

Left side view of Zapp's new i300 electric scooter. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2R040Qv)

Interestingly, the Zapp i300 already has regenerative braking features. Which means electric power can be supplied automatically when the driver closes the throttle. With this system, Zapp hopes that the distance of the electric scooter can be even farther, while increasing the life of the brake.

The i300's battery is easy-to-carry and charge at any UK socket. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2R040Qv)

Another advantage offered is that the power produced by an electric motor is equivalent to a 300 cc engine scooter, then the design of the battery is as compact as a laptop so that it can be easily carried. This lithium-ion type battery is claimed to be easy to install and remove with a fairly light weight, which is less than 5 kg.

Rear side view of Zapp's new i300 electric scooter. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2R040Qv)

"With air quality in cities worsening and our roads becoming increasingly congested, the world needs new alternatives to urban transport. With its revolutionary design, thrilling performance, and clean power source, we believe the i300 is the urban mobility solution people have been looking for," said Chief Executive of Zapp Swin Chatsuwan, as quoted from Motorcyclenews.

For those of you who are interested in this electric scooter, this British company has offered a preorder on their official sites.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAPP SCOOTER | MOTORCYCLENEWS | SCOOTERLAB.UK]

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A unique air suspension scooter from Yogyakarta

The idea of ​​making a vehicle modification work can come from anywhere. The following is a modified scooter that is very unique at the Indonesian Scooter Festival (ISF) 2018. At this event, a variety of modified scooters were displayed. One of the Vespa who draw attention at the event was a modified scooter made by Kupu-Kupu Malam Workshop, a famous automotive modification house from Yogyakarta.

Vescop (Vespa Choptop Airsus) built by Kupu-Kupu Malam Workshop taken of 1964 Vespa VBA. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2y4CxWs)

If at first glance this Golden Greensand colored scooter looks mediocre, but if you are more observant, you will be surprised. Because the scooter nicknamed Vescop (Vespa Choptop Airsus) is not only changed the body part but also applies the air suspension system. 

Of course this is rare because an air suspension system is generally installed on a car. And the unique the air suspension used on this scooter is a pneumatic type. Yes, on the front and back legs of the scooter is installed IDONE's airsuspension. For the system itself it turns out that it is almost similar to the one in the car and meanwhile to operate it by using a remote control.

Vescop (Vespa Choptop Airsus) by Kupu-Kupu Malam Workshop shown at the Indonesian Scooter Festival (ISF) 2018. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2y4CxWs)

To be able to apply this air suspension system to the scooter perfectly must be done several adjustments and changes to the body. Then the shock part was also overhauled but only on the upper seat. In this front shock mounted on the Vespa PX's fork.

The air suspension used on the Vescop (Vespa Choptop Airsus) is a pneumatic type. There're also seen Vespa PX forks combined with 8-inch rims with disc braking system. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2y4CxWs)

This Vescop was deliberately retained its original form in the form of a 1964 Vespa VBA scooter. Changes to the body, which is only slightly cut the scooter body from the front about 8 cm.

The air suspension compressor used on the Vescop (Vespa Choptop Airsus) installed burst out of the body. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2y4CxWs)

From the front there is a headlamp that now uses Daymaker, then there is a handgrip made in Gorilla, brake handle and clutch using Bikers and speedometer products from digital S.IP. Shifting behind was a stop lamp from Siem which was then given a slight black accent.

While on the legs, this scooter uses an 8-inch rim from S.I.P which is then wrapped with Swallow tires. Then to be able to withstand the speed of this scooter, disc brakes were installed from Temaca.

Besides the IDONE air suspension compressor mounted out on the left, so does the Koso PWK 28 carburetor on the right. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2OH06hq)

Continue to the middle, there are only a few parts that are changed, namely the use of seats and custom deck rugs. At the right and left deck we cut, the right side because the Koso PWK 28 carburetor was made out while the left one was for the air suspension compressor.

Are you interested in making your scooter to be an air suspension ones? If you want, then prepare your money roughly US. $5,300 (or approx Rp.80 millions) as your scooter modification fees, then bring the scooter to the Kupu-Kupu Malam Workshop in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. (Wanna see another automotive works of the Kupu-Kupu Malam Workshop!)

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KUPU-KUPU MALAM | GRIDOTO]

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These unique Vespa Monthléry born to run

Have you ever seen this scooter before? If you have never. Indeed, this scooter is rarely or will never be seen wandering on the streets, because this scooter is made specifically for racing on the circuit.

1950 Vespa Monthléry is made specifically for racing on the circuit. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2OblRqp)

These scooter is called Vespa Monthléry which is a continuation development of Vespa Circuito 125 series produced a year earlier.

This unique scooter was born in 1950 and was indeed made special to rival the Lambretta Innocenti Special Model which at that time held 13 speed records on the Roma-Ostia highway.

1950 Vespa Monthléry posed with the Vespa team at Montlhéry, France in April 1950. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2CrHool)

This scooter was designed by Corradino D’Ascanio (in other references mention was designed by Vittorio Casini) with much more perfect engine specifications and the use of an aerodynamic body that looked quite 'weird' in its time. Then, these scooter was carried for race in 10 consecutive hours at the Monthléry autodrome, France on April 7, 1950 piloted by a trio of tough riders Mazzoncini, Spadoni and Castiglioni.

1950 Vespa Monthléry at speed on the Montlhéry autodrome. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2zTYyIN)

Sure enough, these Vespa Monthléry broke the Lambretta's records, by scoring 17 new records (and over 1,049 kilometers)! The new records that are achieved by these scooter include an average speed of 134 km/h with a mileage of 100 miles, 129.7 km/h at a distance of 500 miles, and an average speed of 123.9 hours for 1,000 miles non-stop.

Front view of 1950 Vespa Monthléry. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2OblRqp)

On a streamlined vehicle very similar to this (the 1949 Vespa 125 Circuit "alloy frame") with rider Dino Mazzoncini also performed brilliantly in track races, most memorably in the head-to-head between Vespa and Lambretta that took place on the Genoa Circuit (Corso Italia) and ended in a victory for Vespa in the motor scooter class.

Rear side view of 1950 Vespa Monthléry. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2OblRqp)

From here the development of the racing scooter variant by the Pontadera scooter manufacturer continues, where a year later they make Vespa Siluro that has a torpedo-like shape.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THE VINTAGENT | THE SCOOTERIST | ITALIAN WAYS | ALL IN VESPA]

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7 Rarest and most sought after of Vespa scooters

Vespa scooter is one of the two-wheeled vehicles that became the target of many people, especially the scooter lovers.

What about this Piaggio classic bad ass? Does anyone know what is the name? (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2E27fp6)

The longer the life of the Vespa, the higher the selling price. Understandably because Vespa scooters were first produced in 1943.

Here are the 7 rarest and most sought after of Vespa scooters.

1. 1943 Vespa MP5 Paperino

Vespa MP5 Paperino became the first Vespa scooter produced by Piaggio in 1943. This prototype, designed by the engineer Renzo Spolti and coded MP5 (Moto Piaggio 5), was christened "Paperino", that is "Donald Duck", by the workers. But Enrico Piaggio didn't like it, and passed the job over to Corradino d’Ascanio to review the project and build something different, more advanced both technically and stylistically.

1943 Vespa MP5 Paperino. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2g423VZ)

Since this is the oldest Vespa scooter and about one hundred Paperinos were produced, it is not surprising to be the rarest and most hunted by the collectors and antique scooter lovers around the globe.

2. 1945 Vespa MP6

This scooter was designed by Corradino d’Ascanio after he took the job of designing a simple vehicle tough, economic and elegant and first produced in 1946. The MP6 prototype, was still without a name when in September 1945 was presented  to Enrico Piaggio, who, exclaimed: "Sembra una vespa!" ("It resembles a wasp!"). And since then the name stuck. 

1945 Vespa MP6. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2wGKezd)

The absence of the engine cooling fan, the brake lever on the left side instead of the right, the horn under the saddle, the footboard’s aluminium laths, and the aeronautical symbol on the front shield are the most important differences between the MP6 and the future versions of the Vespa. And these Vespa MP6 is considered the beginning milestone of the Vespa known as a the world's scooter pioneer.

3. 1946 Vespa 98
Although the scooter's name is Vespa 98, but that does not mean these Vespa scooter was produced in 1998. These Vespa scooter was produced in 1946 with a design made specifically for the streets in Europe at that time that is still in poor condition and a total of 2,484 were produced in its first year of life.

1946 Vespa 98. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2i0Kjvm)

Recorded on March 28, 2017, a 1946 Vespa 98 with chassis number 1003 which is one of the first 60 scooters of Piaggio's production has been sold in an auction for $195,748 or equivalent to Rp.2.6 billion.

4. 1947 Vespa 98 Corsa

In 1947, when in Italy began to be filled with many circuit of scooter races. This prompted Piaggio to capitalize these opportunities by making the Vespa 98 Corsa which has a more aggressive speed compared to other scooters on that time. This first fabulous race Vespa was conceived for participation in various circuit races. With it, Piaggio dealers could enter their participation in speed contests.

1947 Vespa 98 Corsa. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2g4LCbQ)

5. 1949 Vespa 125 Circuito

In 1949, Piaggio produced a new type of racing scooter with a rather unique design from their previous racing scooter production. This scooter uses a 125cc engine, and the Vespa 125 Circuito was created with the aim of putting forward its automotive sector that more nimble and powerful.

1949 Vespa 125 Circuito. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2g3VjaG)

6. 1953 Vespa 125 U

The Vespa 125 U is a scooter manufactured by Piaggio in 1953 as an "economy" model, the "U" standing for "utility" and included one of the most hunted scooter by collectors from all over the world. Noted, Piaggio produce this scooter as much as 7 thousand units only, no wonder if this type of scooter is very rare. Besides, the Vespa 125 U is also noted as the first Vespa scooter to use the lights on the handlebar.

1953 Vespa 125 U. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yzNwJ0)

7. 1955 Vespa 150 SideCar

This Vespa scooter became a hunt for the collectors because it has a form that is very unique. In addition, these Vespa scooter is the first to use a 150cc engine. These scooter has a good performance so it gets a lot of praise from scooter fans at that time.

1955 Vespa 150 SideCar. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2y4uQAu)

That's the 7 rarest and most sought after of Vespa scooters by collectors and enthusiasts of antique scooters from around the world.

Those scooters mentioned above are no match when compared with the current motorcycle, especially the performance. But that's not what makes those Vespa scooters become the target of many people. They are certainly interested in their unique shapes and the value of history that lays on the figure of the Vespa scooters.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops.... ••• [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MUSEO PIAGGIO]

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