Vespa 125 Utilitaria

Make Model	Vespa 125 U
Year	1953
Production	7 000 units
Engine	Two stroke, single cylinder
Capacity	124.8 cc 7.6 cub in
Bore x Stroke	56.5 x 49.8 mm
Carburetor	Dell,Orto TA 17B
Compression Ratio	6.4:1
Cooling	Air cooled, forced
Fuel Mixture	1:20
Ignition	Flywheel, magneto
Starting	Kick start
Battery	6V AC
Clutch	Wet, multiplate
Max Power	3.3 kW / 4.5 hp @ 5800 rpm
Transmission	3 speed
Final Drive	Direct drive
Frame	Pressed sheet steel, streamlined monocoque structure
Front Suspension	Variable flexible coil spring
Rear Suspension	Double hydraulic shock absorbers
Front Brakes	124 mm drum
Rear Brakes	126 mm drum
Wheels	Interchangeable
Front Tyre	3.5 x 8"
Rear Tyre	3.5 x 8"
Dimensions	Length: 1680 mm / 66.1 in Width: 790 mm / 31.1 in Height: 1170 mm / 46.4 in
Wheelbase	1160 mm / 45.7 in
Seat height	775 mm / 30.5 in
Dry Weight	78 kg / 172 lbs
Fuel Capacity	6.25 L / 1.65 US gal
Consumption average	2 L/100 km / 50 km/l / 118 US mpg
Top Speed	65 km/h / 40 mph

Although the price is much more attractive than the normal 125 , this series did lead to customer satisfaction. Components were too spartan, and the U was not appreciated even economic reasons. To further reduce the price of the U, Piaggio intervened with may of the details : all chrome disappeared , the engine cover was lightened , the right front fender and hood were trimmed.

However, including the amendments adopted for economic reasons , one effective change was instituted which will be repeated from then on : the light was placed on the handlebar and not on the front fender , where it had always been positioned .

The finishes were particularly "scarce": there were the rubber covers on the brake pedal. The dimensions of the saddle was reduced. The side covers were fixed with screws and seals which were visible and unattractive. The word " Vespa" on the front was painted instead of chrome .

The limited success of the U was also de to improved economic conditions of the users during this period .