Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tuesday 25th March from 1pm
Auction: Wednesday 26th March from 9am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
1963 Vespa GS160 Mk2
Extraordinarily original
Estimate
£9, 000 - £10, 000
Registration No: OFO 607
Frame No: VSB1T 033282
MOT: Exempt
Original throughout including paint
Full working mechanical condition
Engine No: VSB1M 033484
V5C ready for the road
Launched in 1962 the GS160 was quite a departure from the earlier 150 version and marked the beginning of the new era of the more powerful and many would say more reliable Vespas. With a larger cylinder and clutch the engine case being altered and with spare wheel mounted on the left side of the body. Almost every internal engine part was changed and a different air box and carburettor were used. This necessitated even wider engine cowls than the 150 and the most pleasing and the widest (yet still rounded) ‘behind’ ever seen on a Vespa. And it helped credibility being the fastest standard Italian scooter on the road for a short period in 1962 before Lambretta could launch their TV200 in 1963 (it was reportedly faster than the TV175). Overall with a fairly blistering performance of 8. 9 HP and with rounded design features that hid the spare wheel and internalised the luggage the GS160 is regarded by many as the pinnacle best combination of Vespa performance and style. The Mk 2 differed from the Mk 1 by using a large inside legshield toolbox.
One only needs to study the pictures to see the extraordinary condition of this original machine. We noted all aspects are original and not limited to seat and cover, lights, ignition, keys, switches, grips, rubbers, wheel rims and electronics which are still course 6v points with battery. The engine and chassis are close and correct numbers and the scooter runs very sweetly as can be seen by the below video filmed at the time of consignment. The original Ulma leg shield trim are the correct Inox 207s. The paint is in a state of almost absolute purity with very few marginal light touch ups. The engine is running very sweetly as can be seen on the below film taken at time of consignment.
A more original GS160 in this condition would be very hard to find. The reserve is placed very realistically for the standard of this scooter.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
