The Vespa
Role
Restoration mechanic, Industrial design, Welder
Started with
I found a 1976 Vespa VBC Super 150, American model (turn signals) on craigslist for $200, it was rusted mess with large gaping holes in the floorboards, but something said I should bring this thing back to life.
Ended up with
A nice little piece of history that you can park anywhere in SF! The goal was not a perfect rebuild, but a super functional Vespa daily. I ditched the old 6v electronics and points for electronic ignition and 12v modern electronics that charge my iPhone, and run HID and LED lights and keep up with the added displacement of the 180cc engine. Also does not look too bad.
Restoration Gallery
From rust bucket to road-worthy Italian beauty
Before & After
Before
After
Engine Work
Restoration Process
Restoration Journey
From Rust to Ride
What started as a $200 rust bucket became a fully functional daily rider. This project taught me about Italian engineering, the beauty of simple mechanical systems, and the satisfaction of bringing something back to life with your own hands.
Complete frame restoration
Welded new metal, fixed rust holes, powder coating
Engine rebuild & upgrade
150cc to 180cc conversion, performance tuning
Modern electronics
6V to 12V conversion, LED/HID lighting, phone charging
