Vespa Vin Code VBA/VBB

 Vespa Vin Code VBA/VBB

Vespa Vin Code VBA/VBB

    The VBA/VBB Vespas get their name from the prefixes of their VIN numbers. The VBA/VBB were the successor to the handlebar "widebody" Vespas. The VBA/VBB was the 150cc models and VNA/VNB was the prefix for the 125cc models. The "A" were the first ones produced, and were then followed by the "B" models when the rear of the frame was flattened out. In following the handlebar Vespas, these scooters had a completely new body and motor design which was the basis for almost all following largeframe Vespas. The motor was a rotary inducted design which increased reliability, fuel consumption, and decreased oil consumption as compared with the piston ported handlebar motor. The carburetor was relocated from under the seat to the top of the motor case.

    The chassis was narrowed a bit and restyled to match. An enclosed headset now replaced the open handlebars on all models, while on the other hand, the eight inch wheel set up of the older models was retained. The VBB replaced the VBA in 1960 and introduced a much needed four speed gearbox to the smaller scooters. Four gears had previously been reserved only for the top of the line Gran Sport. Furthermore, VBB had aluminum trim on the cowls and a flat section under the tail-light to affix a license plate. All of these scooters were styled and engineered well, and the VBB/VBA are as beautiful and classic a design as the G.S. 150