T HE F I RST T I ME ATTENDER
Simon’s first VWD was also his first experience of continental riding. All on his first geared scooter, a standard PX125.
“By the time I arrived in Hull to catch the ferry I’d already ridden my scooter further in one go than ever before and I was heading for Germany! Saying I was nervous is an understatement. I’ve ridden for years but mostly commuting, switching from motorcycles to auto scooters years ago. It was while having the LX serviced that I fell in love with the PX. A change of job gave me a cash injection and as PX production was ending I took the plunge and bought a new PX125. The idea was to soup it up but that never happened.
“I’m no stranger to continental driving, I was posted to Germany for seven years, but the thought of riding there was an entirely different matter. I wasn’t confident enough to tackle Autobahns on a standard 125, but Stan said we’d be fine sticking to back roads. Once out of the hell-hole that’s Rotterdam, we found ourselves in the countryside and settled into a nice steady riding rhythm. Both Holland and Germany are beautiful, taking quieter roads was definitely the right choice.
“As I was riding a fairly boring standard scooter into the midst of the most enthusiastic Vespa enthusiasts anywhere I was apprehensive about the rally. I don’t have any claims to being part of the 1980s scene that seems to be the passport to credibility and my knowledge of Vespas is also limited (Only at VWD did I learn what a ‘small frame’ was!). I needn’t have worried. One thing I’ll take from Celle is that the Vespa family is a very friendly one. No one dismissed my lack of experience or looked down on my PX. Most were impressed I’d made the trip and were keen to share their expertise. I never once felt out of place.
“Would I recommend the experience? Absolutely. Before setting off someone asked how many scooters would be there and I said ‘3000’ thinking it was a ridiculous number. There were double that on the ride out and that’s something I’ll never forget.
“Belfast looks like being another great event. For anyone who might have the same concerns that I did it’s the perfect opportunity to experience a VWD ‘at home’. If I was asked for any tips I’d say plan the journey so you’ll enjoy it, that’s part of the experience. I do regret trying to save a few quid by not attending the gala dinner, I think that’s a big part of the event. Finally take plenty of things to swap. I know some people see it a little like ‘playground football stickers’ but the demand for banners, badges and shirts is incredible. Even if you’re not a collector it’s the perfect way to meet people from all over Europe.
“Finally, relax. You’ll have a great time in good company. I’m already planning Belfast!”