Vespa World Days
An annual gathering of scooter collectors
They say Vespa isn't just a scooter but a lifestyle. The humble machines today demand a cult status and the older they are, the more valuable they become. But unlike other motorheads, Vespa owners don't shy away from rideing them or showing them off. So every year, Vespa clubs across the globe join in to become a part of Vespa World Days, a celebration of all things Vespa. This year Vespa clubs from 37 countries took part in the event and thousand of these scoots, new and old, modified and standard joined the parade.
Vespa and its following were born together dating back to the year 1946, when Vespa-lovers formed associations: that's how the first Vespa Clubs were born. Today, there are 53 National Vespa Clubs associated with the Vespa World Club and hundreds of registered local Vespa Clubs, a total of more than 120,000 members worldwide. If you are reading this and wondering whether there's one in India? The answer is no. Vespa in India is yet to launch the services of the club and enthusiasts are waiting eagerly for it.
This year the streets of Belfast, Northern Island were taken over by this clan.
Vespas from the 1940s, VBAs, VBBs, Super Sprints, the PX, the PK, ET, the LX were all part of the ride. Owners in the meantime left no stone unturned to customise their Vespas. While some loaded them with stickers, others flaunted custom bodyworks and souped up engines. Some, well, they just left them alone! But it is not just about scooters. Flea markets were full of exotic vintage spares which are nothing short of gold (for those who know the value). This was also the best place to buy your Vespa. Be it vintage, classic or modern Vespas, everything is on sale here and up for grabs. Ending with awards, the oldest and most precious vehicle award went to a splendid and very efficient 1951 Vespa Douglas, in a perfect state of conservation and still with the original period spare tyre. For the first time the award for Solo Vespa Driver went to a woman, a member of Vespa Club Prague who travelled over 6,000 km alone to reach Belfast. Incredible place to be. Next stop, Hungary, next year. Are you up for it?.
THE OLDEST AND MOST PRECIOUS AWARD WENT TO A 1951 VESPA DOUGLAS