Vespa 125 V11 / 1949

End of the Vespa 98 and Introduction of the Vespa 125: At the end of 1947, Enrico Piaggio decided to discontinue production of the Vespa 98. It was replaced by the new “elastic” Vespa 125, named to distinguish it from the earlier “rigid” Vespa 98. Compared to the 98, the single-tube front fork was moved from the left to the right side, and the new model featured both front and rear suspension. The 125 retained the same rod-operated gear shift system as the 98, which earned it the nickname “Bacchetta” (Italian for “rod”).

Design Changes and Production Updates: A major design change came with the V14T model, marking the end of the Piaggio-designed pressed body panels that had been manufactured by Alfa Romeo. This also meant the disappearance of the distinctive rear rib that had characterized the Vespa 98 and the V1T through V13T models.

The Vespa 125 in the Benelux: The Vespa 125 V11T was the first Vespa to be officially imported into the Netherlands and Belgium. Before that, a few units had already found their way into the Benelux through local motorcycle dealers. From 1949 onwards, an official import structure was established: Nedam in Roermond and GAM in Rotterdam handled the Dutch market, while Bevelux in Brussels was responsible for Belgium. These companies were tasked with setting up a dealership network throughout the Benelux region.

The early Vespa 125 “Bacchetta” models are especially rare; it is estimated that only around 150 units were sold in the Benelux. These scooters were specially fitted at the Italian factory with license plate holders on the front fender and headlamp to comply with regulations in the Benelux and Switzerland, where front-facing license plates were mandatory.