.

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 .