What sporty scooter did Italian Corradino d’ Ascanio give the world in the 1940s?

triviatime1

vespa Dec 12 06, 7:44 AM

Janis23

vespa Dec 12 06, 7:54 AM

skysmom65

Vespa A Story of Success Not many products can look back on a life span of over fifty years - but the Vespa from Piaggio can. This motorcycle, developed in Italy during the post-World War II years, moved from being a utility vehicle, whose characteristics had been dictated by criteria such as function and cost, to international success and is now a "cult object". So what is the story behind this unique motorcycle? MORE: http://home.rol3.com/~u0341403/iss15/vespa.htm Dec 12 06, 8:23 AM

zbeckabee

Note RE: The Vespa -- D'Ascanio, who hated motorbikes, designed a revolutionary vehicle. It was built on a spar-frame with a handlebar gear change, and the engine mounted directly on to the rear wheel. The front protection "shield" kept the rider dry and clean in comparison to the open front end on motorcycles. The pass-through leg area design was geared towards all user groups, including women, as wearing dresses or skirts made riding a motorcycle a challenge. The front fork, like an aircraft's landing gear, allowed for easy wheel changing. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vespa Dec 12 06, 8:25 AM