Scooter Camper-Kombi
Every now and then, someone does something different, and it always begs the same question: ‘Why?’ That, of course, always results in the same answer: ‘Because I can.’
Created by Geno Melici at PM Tuning, this camper-sidecar combo has embraces his passion for both VW Camper vans, and auto-scooters alike. Now, to the traditional 80s scooterboys out there, this no doubt represents everything they believe to be ‘wrong’ with the scooter scene… autos and campers! Next people will want to bring kids to the scooter rally (I hear you cry). So okay, he’s not winning over any hard-core fans, but then again, he’s not trying to. Geno is clearly a fella who knows what he likes, and likes what he knows… and that is embodied in his creation.
Utilising one of the ‘First Production’ FP200 Scomadi scooters as the basis, he designed a matching sidecar chassis to marry up to it. The geometry of this is not as simple as you think, especially if you want to go round corners with it, and the alignment of the sidecar wheels in relation to the position of the scooter wheels takes some thinking about. Thankfully Geno knew how to set this up, and the sidecar runs nicely in line. The engine of the FP200 was of course tweaked by PM themselves, and fitted with the usual tuned head, TFI, and variator performance package.
As you would expect, the scooter is also topped off with all the latest Scomadi upgrade trim, but one unusual feature is certainly not an official ‘dealer upgrade option’! So what is it? Well it’s a valve which leads in the megaphone exhaust
...to the traditional 80s scooterboys out there, this no doubt represents everything they believe to be ‘wrong’ with the scooter scene… autos and campers!
running out of the side of the camper unit, which when switched on emulates an engine unit for the camper… and it’s loud! You think a VW reverse cone clubman is loud, well I can tell you that it ain’t got nuthin’ on this pipe!
The sidecar unit itself is sumptuously topped off with Recaro trim, JBL speakers and a JVC audio unit, along with fully functioning lights and gauges. Sprayed up in matching white paint, same as his actual VW camper, it completes the set. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s different, and shows what can be done. Words & Photographs: Dan Clare