[/IMG] [/IMG] I just got some hand-painted pinstripes on my little Vespa early-'60s era mild custom. These were done by a young artist in Auckland, NZ named Damien, who's done a number of rods, sickels, scoots and crash helmets (really!). I think he's done a great job and will get him to do a set of factory-style coachlines on my '64 'Cat when she's rebuilt.
Thanks... Almost want? I should warn you these things are contagious! One of my Harley riding buddies wants to have an Old Skool Vespa after seeing mine.
Do I apologise to you guys for starting this thread or what? I'm sure there are a lot of Old Skool Vespas/Lambrettas/etc. sitting in garages where you guys live just waiting for a sympathetic new owner. There's a large scooter scene, Stateside, and plenty of parts and technical back-up. If you guys are serious about finding and rodding a scooter, feel free to PM me for advice. Mine was part of a bunch of factory reissues that I bought from auctions in Japan a couple of years ago. Sadly, the freight costs to get these into the USA would be v. prohibitive (it costs as much to send a shipping container to the Midwest from CA as it would to get it from Japan or NZ to San Pedro!). Happy hunting.
When you've seen what I have customized and/or rodded over the years, you'll know why I don't worry about being seen riding a Vespa! (LOL) BTW, the chicks dig it more than my sickel!