1986 Vespa T5 125cc (BM437)

Rare and special first series T5 from Italy - Never sold in the states. Unique styling, true survivor in very clean overall condition. Features a unique sporty and powerful 5-port motor. This sensational T5 was acquired in northern Italy from the collection of a Vespa enthusiast.  A rare 1980’s classic in remarkable condition, restored several years ago and well kept since. Overall very clean and straight with Rossa paint in good shape. Attractive and special for this model only instrument cluster showing only 34,226km (21,267 miles) believed accurate. Original dual saddle shows minor flaws. Fitted with sturdy rack and color wheel discs. Mechanical condition is also very good and this sporty Vespa runs great. Very rare and special model with a dedicated following in Italy, seldom seen in the USA. A real score for an enthusiast who enjoys lively performance and one of the best handling Vespa models. A gem!

ABOUT THIS MODEL : 1986 Vespa T5

In the 1980’s, boxy shapes and square edges were the "in" thing.  The height of that style for the classic Vespa world is the T5, which epitomizes all things square and sharp.  Beyond the style aspect, Piaggio felt that they had to rise to the challenge offered by the Japanese manufacturers who had set the bar high in that period for quality and cost. Piaggio responded by doing a minor re-design of their venerable Vespa P-series.

The result, was the T5, which was very much in keeping with Piaggio’s “evolution” strategy for scooter design.  While based on the P-series body, it had quite a few interesting new features.  On the body, it had a cut-down front fender, a plastic air spoiler under the legshield, a small plastic tray on top of the glovebox, a squared-off tail section (which was welded on top of the standard frame), a large seat, and a new headset design.  The new headset was much larger than the standard P-series, and included a large speedometer and one feature that appeared on no other Vespa - a digital tachometer!  

The T5's changes did not end there, and they also included a special hot-rod engine.  This motor was a real highlight on this scooter, and is well-respected in the vintage Vespa world.  While only a 125cc powerplant, it put out 12 HP, about the same power as a 200cc!  In Europe, the 125cc class was extremely important, since in many countries, the drivers license is limited by motor size.  The T5 made the most of its 125cc's by having a 5 port nikasil cylinder, which was unique to this model.  These motors are really zippy, and a joy to ride.  There were two versions of this scooter, this first model, with the unique bodywork, and a later version that had a standard PX body with the T5 motor.

These first series T5’s are coveted.  Even in Europe, the T5's are not easy to find, and certainly, they are rare in this very original condition.  Really they are just so much fun to ride - tight, smooth, and quick.  These were never sold in the US because Piaggio had exited the American market prior to their introduction. We’ve only seen a handful of T-5’s in the US, and this is certainly an extremely nice one. Get on it, and you’ll see why the European scooterists loved them.

1986 Vespa T5 125 Series 1 (BM437)

Offered at $8,255

Price (before tax): $8,255

Make: Vespa

Year: 1986

Displacement: 125cc

Inventory number: BM437

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