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
Faithfull Quadrophenia Album Replica
Estimate
£4, 000 - £5, 000
Registration No: 344 UYO
Frame No: VSB1T007202
MOT: Exempt
Restored by Dave Wyborn from the Quadrophenia museum
Correct numbers (Engine No:VSB1M 007292)
Running well and has V5C for use on the road
The cult status of the Who’s rock opera film Quadrophenia needs no introduction and its appeal grows ever stronger as the years go by. A magical infusion of culture with its distinctive working class 60s mod appeal. The original album was released in 1973 as a rock opera with the film coming out later in 1978.
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. 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.
The scooter is faithful to the original as used by Chad on the Who’s album Quadrophenia and accompanying book. With the correct original RAF St. Christopher badge and all of the spotlights are original Miller, Stadium, Lucas and Radyot as per the original. Therefore lots of details like the individual plectrums and accessories that deserve study of the full set of photographs to appreciate the work that’s gone into such a scooter. It is in fine running condition as can be seen by the photographs and the accompanying video below. This actual machine was used by the mod revival band ‘The Goldhawk’s’ on stage during the ‘Quadrophenia - The Album Live’ tour. With correct matching numbers this is a very good GS160 in its own right. The reserve has been set realistically to sell.
** 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.
