Another interwebs find for today. A Vespa Ciao that has been modified to look like a BMX Bicycle. This Ciao comes from Auto Shop Rokko in Kobe-shi, Hyogo, Japan. They took a stock Vespa Ciao and created this simple but clean vintage moped with a modern twist.
VESPA CIAO APPEARANCE
A lot of detail work went into this build. The moped was stripped of its original yellow paint. The frame, forks, spokes and wheel hubs were powder coated mate black. The rims, pedal arms, and neck hardware were powder coated to match the handlebars and stem. The pedal crank is powder coated black as well, but the teeth are striped to a metal finish.
The accessories used work great with the theme and look of this Ciao. A polished gas cap stands out against the mate black frame/tank. BMX parts are used for the pedals, handlebars, levers, and colored cables. A BMX neck/stem is modified to replace the original Vespa Ciao handlebar with neck hardware. A black bullet headlight replaces the factory unit. Matching the color scheme with decals added to the engine cover, side covers, and rear fender/frame section. The covers are painted with a mate black finish as well. A pink BMX chain, though not part of the black and green color scheme, completes the accessories used.
VESPA CIAO MODS
A lot of the original Ciao equipment was removed. This Vespa came with turn signals, fenders, and racks. The front fender and front book rack were not reused in the build. The handlebar unit on this Ciao held the headlight, turn signals, levers, controls, and was connected to the neck. The BMX neck/stem had to be machined down a bit to fit where the original equipment did. Then the BMX handlebars were added to the new stem. The turn signals were replaced with bar end signals on the new version of this moped. BMX levers are used instead of the factory levers. New throttle assembly and grips as well. The rear fender, rack, support and lighting are removed too.
The seat is striped down to its metal pan. The spring for the seat’s suspension is removed and covered up. A steel center post is added for support and for the BMX look.
ENGINE
The engine was over hauled and rebuilt with new seals, bearing, and gasket. Auto Shop Rokko kept the engine stock and dependable. The top end was replaced with a new piston, rings, cylinder and head.
More build images from Auto Shop Rokko
So cool!
I did one up like this. rigid fork too. got close to 50 mph on a DR kit and a calibratta exhaust. super rad going that fast on a 50lb stamped steel pizza cutter box thing. waaay better with forks from a Peugeot 103.
Yeah, going fast on those rigid forks can be scary.