2025: Vespa & Lambretta spring check
Every spring, scooter enthusiasts face the challenge of getting their beloved Vespa or Lambretta ready for the coming season. If you have a little technical know-how, you can carry out the maintenance work yourself. In the video linked below, André and Elvis show you which checks are important, how you can carry them out and what tools you need. So get your bike ready and head into spring!
Checklist
Tyres (condition, tread depth & air pressure)
Lighting (Headlight Unit adjustment, check function)
Oil level (Engine & transmission)
Visual inspection for leaks (Is the Engine tight? Is the cooling system tight?)
Battery (state of charge, fill level for acid batteries)
Brakes (pad thickness, function, condition of Brake Hoses & Brake Fluid level)
Tank (tightness & rust)
Wheels (Bearing in order? Is there any Game? Check Cotter Pin and wheel nut)
Check cables, adjust with cable pliers if necessary and lubricate with Silicone Spray
Visual inspection (are all Screws where they belong and are they tight? Mirrors in the correct position? Lens not blinded?)
Steering Head Bearing (If there is any Game, adjust with Steering Head Bearing Wrench)
Clean Spark Plug and replace if necessary
The basic cleaning of the Vespa & Lambretta
To be optimally prepared for the next ride, owners should give their motorbike a thorough clean. This is not just about appearance, but also about recognising damage and defects. Rust spots should be repaired immediately, as rust can spread quickly and damage individual components. Flash rust can be removed with polishing agents; sandpaper is required for stubborn infestation. After treatment, the area should be sealed with Paint to prevent further rust infestation. If necessary, the Air Filter should also be cleaned. SIP Scootershop offers a wide range of tools for removing rust and cleaning Vespa and Lambretta scooters.
The Vespa & Lambretta Battery
Before the scooter can be put into operation, it must first be checked whether the battery is sufficiently charged. There are two options for Vespa and Lambretta owners: Either the battery is removed before winter and connected to a trickle charger so that it can then be fitted directly and the scooter is ready to start immediately. Alternatively, the Battery can remain fitted throughout the winter, but this can lead to it discharging itself and having to be charged before starting. After successful charging, all lights and Indicators should be checked for proper function.
Tyres on the Vespa & Lambretta
It is very important that scooter riders regularly check the condition of their Tyres. Three factors play a decisive role here: the tyre pressure, the tread depth and the condition of the material. The air pressure depends on the model and can be found in the vehicle documents. For mopeds with a maximum cubic capacity of 125 cc, a tread depth of one millimetre is sufficient to comply with the legal requirements. However, if the Tyres are close to this limit, it is advisable to replace them promptly to avoid future problems. For infrequent drivers, the tread depth may not be decisive, as they do not wear out the tyres as quickly. Nevertheless, they should not use their tyres indefinitely. It depends on the age of the Tyre. Tyres should be replaced after ten years. If there are visible cracks in the Rubber, it is recommended to change the tyres before that. You can also find lots of information about Tyres in our detailed guide.
The brakes of the Vespa & Lambretta
It is important to regularly check the condition of the brake system on a Vespa or Lambretta to ensure safe riding. Non-professionals may find it difficult to assess the condition of the brakes and should consult a specialist if this is the case. Among other things, it is important to check whether the Brake Lever is still working and whether the Brake Pads are sufficiently strong. If there is any doubt about the durability of the pads, it may be advisable to replace them early. When checking the brake system, it is important to check all lines. If they scrape against the wheels, there is a risk of them rupturing while driving, which can have serious consequences. Even if the system has been classified as safe, Vespa and Lambretta riders should be careful on their first tour. As dust, dirt and flash rust can accumulate on the Brake Discs, they can significantly impair the braking effect.
The fluids of the Vespa & Lambretta
In spring, it is important to check the fluids during the Vespa and Lambretta inspection. If the Oil and coolant levels are within the normal range, the scooter can be used without hesitation. However, it is recommended to carry out a complete oil change every 4,000 kilometres to remove soot from the Cylinder, Cylinder Head and channels. When changing the oil, it is important to work cleanly to avoid oil leaks and contamination of other substances. Even small drops can get into the water and cause damage.
What should be in the glove compartment of the Vespa & Lambretta?
We have emergency packs (Gearbox Oil, Spark Plug, Inner Tube, Cable etc.) for Smallframe and Largeframe Vespas in our range, which are extremely practical in the event of an emergency. A first-aid kit and High-Visibility Vest are also essential. If you want to be on the safe side, pack a 45-piece Tool Bag.
Have a good journey!
We assume that you have registered and insured the scooter, but if not, you will of course need to do that too. Otherwise, we can only wish you a safe journey and remind you of the SIP Open Day, where we hope to see you. Or you can drop by our flagship store in Landsberg - we would be delighted to see you there.
Video: Well prepared for the scooter season
