Rims for Vespa & Lambretta
- at SIP Scootershop
Rims for Vespa, Lambretta and other scooters are an important part of the bike and influence both the look and the performance of the scooter. There are some important aspects you should know about rims for scooters:
Construction & Maintenance
One big advantage is that Vespa and Lambretta scooters usually have the same Rim at both the front and rear. This makes carrying a spare wheel particularly worthwhile, as it can be used on either the front or rear axle. Another distinguishing criterion for rims is the design. Depending on the Brake Drum used, there are closed and open rims. Many Vespa rims are designed with a two-piece construction so that it is easy to change the Tyre yourself. For example, with the exception of the Vespa Super 125-150, all vintage models have closed 8-inch rims. A 9-inch Rim is only found on small frames.
Rims should be checked regularly for damage or corrosion, as they are exposed to great stress from the weight of the scooter and uneven roads. Aluminium rims do not rust, but can be affected by scratches and dents, while steel rims are more susceptible to rust.
Rim size
The rim size varies depending on the model and purpose of the scooter. Smaller rims (around 10-12 inches) provide a more manoeuvrable and agile ride, while larger rims (13-16 inches) offer better stability at higher speeds. Since the Vespa GS150, classic Vespas have been built on a solid 10-inch chassis. Larger rims (12-16 inches) are the rule for modern Vespas, scooters and maxi scooters. If you want to convert your classic Vespa, you can do so with the help of our Conversion Kits to do so.
Material
Aluminium: Lightweight, yet strong. Aluminium rims are often used because of their low weight and corrosion resistance. They offer better acceleration and are more efficient in terms of fuel consumption. Modern Vespas usually have rims made of this material.
Steel: More robust and often cheaper, but heavier than aluminium. Steel rims are more resistant to damage from potholes, but increase the overall weight of the scooter, which can lead to slightly higher fuel consumption. Classic Vespas are usually fitted with steel rims.
Carbon: Rare and expensive, but extremely light and robust. Carbon rims are mainly used in high-performance applications and have not played a role in the scooter market to date.
Our selection of designs is large. Unless otherwise specified, the rims for classic Vespas and Lambrettas are always made of steel and can be used both at the front and rear. Please note that chrome rims are not permitted on the road and must be registered with the TÜV. Incidentally, SIP steel rims have a number, which makes registration easier. We can particularly recommend our in-house SIP tubeless rims. Burst Inner Tubes are a thing of the past with this rim. Valve ruptures or a flat tyre caused by a pinched Inner Tube are also a thing of the past.
Tubeless vs. tube type
Tubeless rims: These allow the insertion of tubeless Tyres, which reduces the risk of a sudden loss of pressure in the event of a puncture.
Tube-type rims: These require an Inner Tube in the Tyre. They are usually found on older scooters.
Design
Rims are available in various designs, which not only add visual accents but can also influence the aerodynamics of the scooter. Some rims feature Spokes for a more classic and lightweight design, while others are cast rims that offer a more cohesive, robust design. Many scooter riders choose to customise their rims by having them painted in different colours, chrome-plated or decorated with special designs to add a personal touch to their vehicle. These customisation options make it possible to combine aesthetic preferences with practical aspects, emphasising both the performance and personal style of the scooter.
The different rims from SIP Scootershop
SIP Legal
Our SIP Legal rims are supplied with a general operating licence (ABE), which means that they are approved for road use. In order to obtain this approval, the rims have been thoroughly tested in cooperation with the GTÜ (Gesellschaft für Technische Überwachung) and the KBA (Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt). In this way, we guarantee safety and conformity with the legal requirements.
SIP Performance
The SIP Performance rims have been specially developed for scooter riders who are looking for performance-enhancing or more functional parts. Thanks to our many years of experience in the scooter parts market, we know exactly what is missing or can be improved. These rims offer an improved fit and are of high quality. They are particularly suitable for Vespa and scooter riders who are not satisfied with standard parts and have higher demands.
SIP Series Pordoi
The SIP Series Pordoi rims are available for modern Vespa models in 12 and 13 inch sizes. They are characterised by their road approval in accordance with KBA standards. The SIP SERIES PORDOI 3.0x13 ET20 model, which is made of lightweight and robust low-pressure die-cast aluminium, is particularly popular. These rims can accommodate tyre widths of up to 140/60-13 inches and are available in various colours, including matt black.
SIP MK I Rims
These rims have also been developed for the Vespa GTS series. They are made of low-pressure cast aluminium and are available in 12 or 13 inch sizes. Their classic design with 20 Spokes and the various finish options, such as chrome or black, make them an elegant choice. They impress with their high quality of workmanship and road approval.
SIP Spare Parts
With SIP Spare Parts, we offer high-quality alternatives to original parts that are either no longer produced or whose quality does not meet the requirements. These rims fill the gaps in the scooter parts market and offer a reliable solution.
SIP Style
The SIP Style Rim series stands out with its special patina look. You can find out more about this special series in our Blog and videowhich offer detailed insights into design and function.
Premium Quality
Under this label, we offer affordable spare parts that are suitable for both classic and modern scooters. These parts offer a good balance between price and performance.
The most important rim manufacturers at SIP Scootershop
Piaggio
The Piaggio rims offered by SIP Scootershop are characterised by high quality and precision. They are available in various sizes and designs tailored to different Vespa models. These rims are available in different finishes (e.g. matt black, chrome or silver grey) and are suitable for various Vespa models. Piaggio relies on OEM quality in the manufacturing process, which guarantees a high degree of fitting accuracy and durability.
FA Italia
FA Italia offers a wide selection of high-quality rims for Vespa models, which are particularly characterised by their robust construction and excellent price-performance ratio. These rims are mainly made of steel or aluminium in low-pressure casting, which makes them durable and resistant. They are suitable for classic and modern Vespas. FA Italia is known for its precision-manufactured spare parts and rims, which are often used as upgrades or replacements for original Piaggio parts that are no longer available.
Zelioni
Zelioni rims at SIP Scootershop are known for their high quality and exclusive design, specially developed for Vespa models. These rims are usually made of forged aluminium and are characterised by their low weight and CNC-machined surface, which ensures a perfect finish. These rims are not only a visual highlight, but also improve performance thanks to their lower weight and high-quality finish. They are particularly popular with Vespa enthusiasts who value style and riding dynamics.
Maru's Factory
Maru's Factory is known for producing high-quality CNC-machined rims and other accessories for modern Vespa models. These parts are characterised by their precision and durability. Maru's Factory products are particularly attractive to Vespa enthusiasts who value design and performance, as the parts are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.