Trade Spotlight – Allstyles Scooters
There are parts suppliers and there’s Allstyles. Stan visits the South Coast home of all that’s rare and desirable…
A look behind the scenes at this top dealer, there’s more to them than meets the eye!
It’s one of the most asked questions on forums: “Where can I find…?” More often than not the answer is Allstyles, but how did this Portsmouth-based company achieve its enviable reputation? “A lot of people think that a big turnover equals big earnings,” began owner Gary Wells, “the truth is that we’re constantly ploughing profits back into the business so we can increase our range.”
At the time of our visit the Allstyles range totalled 5500 individual products, but like most successful businesses Allstyles’ reputation has taken years of hard work and dedication to earn.
“When I was about 13, my older brother restored a Mk1 GS which was sold on and replaced by a GP. He’d go out to sign on and I’d take it out for run, that’s how the
bug bit me!” explained Gary. “I decided to turn my hobby into a business and set up Allstyles in 1995. We’ve had a few bases over the years but we settled on Artillery Row about 15 years ago.” In the early days Allstyles offered servicing and restoration but it now concentrates on the supply of parts for classic Lambrettas and Vespas.
Something for everyone
Allstyles are probably best known for their range of remade parts, particularly accessories. “Although we’re stockists of large brands such as Casa, SIP and Scootopia, we try to source most of our own parts. This includes our range of carriers and crash-bars, most of which are manufactured to our own specifications.” Another key part of Allstyles’ stock is the selection of reproduction rubber trim, including many items that have been out of production or impossible to find for years. The range of trim stocked by Allstyles is quite staggering.
At the decorative end of the spectrum are handlebar tassels in a variety of colours, while sportier riders may be more interested in the pathfinder light mounting rubbers, which are only recently back in stock. One of the most popular lines however is candy-striped leg-shield trims which have an enduring appeal. “Whether it’s for a period restoration or as an inexpensive way to customise a scooter we try to offer something for everyone.” said Gary.
Development programme
One of the lesser known facts about Allstyles is the company’s involvement with other well-known names in the world of scootering. Many of the products commissioned in house are sold into the trade and as Gary explained, it’s an arrangement that works two ways. “We work very closely with Scootopia and are always looking for ways to provide good value and high quality products for scooterists across the world,” he said. “A recent development with Scootopia is a double ended puller that fits both Vespa and Lambretta flywheels, but I’m most excited about a 185 kit that we’re developing which, I think, offers exceptional value”. The kit in question is for the small block casting and will displace around 185cc. Ported to provide a good spread of torque and bhp, it will be sold with a clubman exhaust and 22mm Scootopia carburettor. The target price? Less than £500.
Also commissioned by Allstyles ar range of hard to find body parts. If your wish list includes a Lambetta headset with matching top, bottom and headlight rim, Allstyles have remade examples in stock for most models. Added to their range of body panels for a wide range of both Lambretta and V they make Allstyles a key port of ca any restorer.
Bricks and mortar
Regardless of their online presence, Allstyles are proud to retain an active shop front. “We’re always pleased to meet customers old and new” said Gary. “If they want to bring along a frame and make sure panels fit before they buy, they’re welcome to do so. We may not offer workshop facilities any more but the team has a wealth of experience, and is always willing to offer advice.” Whether it be online or in person, their ever changing range means Allstyles are always worth a visit. Situated a short hop from the Isle of Wight ferry they’re also a useful source of spares for those making the annual Bank Holiday pilgrimage. It’s hard to think of anything more a scooterist could ask for. www.allstyles-scooters.com