"Mary", the 1967 Vespa 125 Super
Before (1991): 
After (2004): 
A year later, with 10" wheel
upgrade, among other things. 
A bit of history:
Purchased in 1991, this scooter (1967 125 Super) was originally a runabout used
on the Electrolytic Zinc company's factory site in Hobart (see last photo, taken
at the site). As a consequence, it
had lots of rust underneath. The rear light lens was broken, and it had various
holes from mounting the number plates, registration sticker, and a large
windscreen. All rubber and metal trims and the seat needed to be replaced. After
having it sitting in various sheds and coming with me when I moved house, I
started work in earnest in 2002.
As scooters are not common here, finding people to help with the work wasn't
straightforward. The two pack paint job was done by a guy working in a car paint
shop, on his weekends. The mechanicals, new wiring loom and cable replacement were done by the mechanic at the local
motorbike shop, which sells and services new Vespas. I did all
the trim replacement myself including new aluminium legshield trim which had to be
crimped on with a special tool, a job I
never want to do again if I can help it! The scooter needed a rebore and new
clutch plates, and now starts easily and runs well! The 10" rims
have helped improve handling.
The flower emblem is
the trademark of fashion designer Mary Quant, and I have named this scooter
"Mary". I made the seat, back rest pad covers and rear carry bag, had the flower
stickers made up, and painted a helmet to match.
Enjoy! I certainly am! She's still running well in 2006.
A rainy day at the Toy Run, Christmas 2005.