Haven't done an update for quite some time, but here is the latest info of upcoming SoCal Scooter Events & Rallies (taken form the SoCal Scooter weekly newsletter; sign up for it, here):
SCOOTER EVENT CALENDAR:
TASTE OF ITALY – JUNE 27, 2009
Downtown Los Angeles, CA
The Italian American Museum of Los Angeles (IAMLA) is hosting the "Taste of Italy", a wine and food festival at the historic Pico House off the Plaza on Olvera Street in LA, 424 North Main Street, L.A., CA 90012.
Set in Los Angeles' historic Little Italy, there will be authentic Italian cuisine, fine wine and live music. Admission is $25 per person (the admission price gets you a chance to win two round trip tickets to Italy!). If you have anybody that is too young to drink, they can still buy a ticket to the raffle if they like. Scooters can park on Sanchez Street right next to the Pico House.
The event was planned to involve the community in the planning of the new museum which will be located at the northwest end of Olvera Street. Why there? You'll have to come and find out!
The event is from 5pm-9pm. Please plan to join us for our first Taste of Italy!
Info: (213) 485-8432, or visit www.italianhall.org
CLUB IMPACT 25TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY – JUNE 27, 2009
Hollywood, CA
Club Impact invites everyone to their 25th Anniversary party, Saturday, June 27th, 2009. It is happening at Kung Pao Kitty , 6445 Holywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028, (323) 465-0110.
No entry fee at the door - only a $10 fee for the club give-away package. There will be a slide show, DJs/Music and lots of libations.
For more info, go to their website:
http://www.clubimpact.us/events.html.
SUPER SUNDAY SCOOTER EVENT– JUNE 28, 2009
SGV, CA
What's up Everyone...The Super Series Continues Volume 2 for 2009...Super Sunday is scheduled for June 28th, 2009...
Same Meeting Location...The Hat, Temple City, 5505 Rosemead Blvd., Temple City, CA 91780.
The Time: 8:30 a.m, leaving at 9:15 a.m
The Destination: ALWAYS unknown
Expectant Fun Rating: 10+
Get your bikes Ready for a Great Season to come!
SOUL MOTION SCOOTER FEST – JUNE 28, 2009
Long Beach, CA
A sound spread on Pine Avenue so funk-tastic, you’d be inert to miss it — that, and you couldn’t witness a scooter rally with FREE scooter parking and bike valet!
DJ Dennis Owens of The Good Foot spins 60s selects, The New Fidelity brings mod pop power, Boogaloo Assassins play a Latin-salsa-soul mix, followed by two sweets from Jack Johnson’s Brushfire Records label: ALO (Animal Liberation Orchetra) and Money Mark, the sound machine Cuban-fusion keyboardist who put the Beastie Boys back on the map in the 90s.
Intersection of Pine & Broadway Ave., in downtown Long Beach. Part of the City of Long Beach's Summer and Music program. See the website for details.
L.A. RIDE TO AMERIVESPA – JULY 1, 2009
North Hollywood, CA
We are going to get a group going to ride up to Amerivespa in Los Gatos, CA. We will meet at NoHo Scooters at 9 AM on Wednesday July 1st. Ride will leave at 10 AM sharp. The ride up will be 125 friendly, but we must do some freeway on the way back due to the extra time it would take to ride highway 1 back. My wife will be driving the backup truck with trailer, so there will be room for some smaller bikes.
The days ride will have us stopping at Vespa Santa Barbara before riding up to San Luis Obispo for the night. We will be staying at the Travelodge at 345 Marsh St in SLO. We will rise early and ride up to the coast through Big Sur and Carmel on highway 1.
We will group up whereever the Sunday (July 5th) ride ends up, and head back to SLO down on 101 (150cc and above only). We will stay at the same Travelodge. This will be for freeway legal bikes only. The following morning we will ride back to NoHo.
A few rules.
-If your bike is not running right, don't try to bring it on the ride. We don't to fill all the space in the backup truck with scooters that should not be there.
-This ride is open to all scooters that can maintain 60-65 MPH on flat ground. We don't want to wait for those who choose to ride slow.
-This ride is open to modern and vintage scooters 125cc and above that can maintain 60-65 MPH. No whiners allowed.
-Bring proper riding gear. This includes something to keep you warm. It can get cold along the coast and in the Bay Area.
-Bring money for food, gas, hotel, etc. Don't be a mooch.
-Make sure your scoot is legal. This means current tags, registration, and working lights. We dont want to attract the police.
-Maintain a pack while on the freeway.
Please contact me if interested.
Mike Frankovich
NoHo Scooters, 818-761-3647.
AMERIVESPA – JULY 2-6, 2009
Torrance, CA
ITINERARY:
THURSDAY, JULY 2ND 2009
Meet - TBD
Moto Amore, 448 E. Santa Clara Street (& 10th Street), San Jose CA 95112, Phone: (408) 295-3004
Breakfast will be provided. Registration will also be available. Early Bird Ride to Mount Hamilton Ride. Departs @ - TBD
There will be two rides available with varying ride distances: Beginner and Advanced.
Meet & Greet - Agenda Lounge, 399 S. 1st Street, San Jose CA 95113, Phone: (408) 287-3991. Meet @ - TBD. Bands. DJ. Music. Registration will be available.
Come-out and meet your your fellow scooterists and other local DJs, as we kick-off AmeriVespa 2009 by spinning scooter tunes.
Scoot! Magazine will also be holding a Raffle for a scooter and other fun scooter schwag!
FRIDAY, JULY 3RD 2009
Meet @ - TBD. Los Gatos Lodge, 50 Los Gatos Saratoga Road, Los Gatos CA 95032, Phone: (408) 354-3300
Breakfast and Registration will be available. San Juan Bautista (Long Ride). Ride Departs @ 8:30AM
Vespa Club Los Gatos will lead a main ride to San Juan Bautista, a long ride through the valley not to be missed! A brown bag lunch will be provided in San Juan Bautista.
Various other rides will also be available; details TBD
Vespa Club of America - Annual Meeting. Meet @ 6pm. Location - TBD
Scooter Music Night - Hosted by Secret Society SC
American Legion Hall, 1344 Dell Avenue, Campbell CA 95008, Phone: (408) 379-6420, Music starts @ 8p/9p
Come out and to various DJs and bands, as they spin and play scooter friendly music into the night!
Scoot! Magazine will be holding a Raffle for a scooter and other fun scooter schwag!
SATURDAY, JULY 4TH 2009
Meet @ - TBD. Los Gatos Lodge. Breakfast and Registration will be available. Ride Departs @ 10AM
Vespa Club Los Gatos will lead the ride through some of the best twisties and backroads we know! This ride is not to be missed!
Saturday Day Show: Saratoga Springs, 22801 Big Basin Way, Saratoga CA 95070 408. Phone: (408) 867-3016. Visitor Entrance @ 11AM. Events start @ 12PM
Vendors! Lunch BBQ provided! Gymkhana! Slow Race! Drag Race! Miss Vespa USA Contest! Scooter Build-Off! Workshops! MSF Tutorial!
Dinner @ TBD
Concourse Awards with Evening Activities.
Scoot! Magazine will be holding a Raffle for a scooter and other fun scooter schwag! A ride will be led to a local fireworks display, to celebrate the Fourth of July!
Afterwards, join local scooterists for a Scooter Drive-In Movie at a local venue.
SUNDAY, JULY 5TH 2009
Meet @ TBD Los Gatos Lodge. Breakfast will be available. Ride to the Coast Ride. Departs @ - TBD. Farewell BBQ Lunch Location - TBD
Last Chance Raffle for a scooter and other scooter schwag, held by Scoot! Magazine.
Return ride to San Jose
MONDAY, JULY 6TH 2009
Meet @ TBD. Cardinal Lounge 3197 Meridian Avenue, San Jose CA 95124 408. Phone: (408) 269-7891
Still in town? Not ready to start your Monday? Meet-up for a late breakfast, with Vespa Club Los Gatos, for one last hurrah and leaded coffee to ease your hang-over.
*** Schedule Is Subject To Change ***
**More details will be posted as they are confirmed.**.
http://www.amerivespa.org.
SOUTH BAY SC MONTHLY RIDE – SUNDAY, JULY 5, 2009
Torrance, CA
ATTENTION: DIFFERENT DATE AND MEETING PLACE THIS MONTH!
NOTE THAT WE WILL BE MEETING ON SUNDAY, JULY 5TH, NOT ON SATURDAY, SO THAT EVERYONE CAN ENJOY THEIR 4TH OF JULY WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
Meet at 12:30am at SOUTH BAY VESPA, 18425 HAWTHORNE BLVD., TORRANCE, CA 90504; Ride leaves at 1pm-ish. RAIN CANCELS.
We will be riding out to some of our favorite routes in PV, then ending the ride at one of our old South Bay SC hangouts, UTRO's Bar & Grill in San Pedro. Come ride, grub and check out the two Vespas behind the bar at UTRO's.
Come on out for the longest-running, regular ride in SoCal: the South Bay Scooter Club's Monthly Ride! All scooters welcome.
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com
SCOOT INVASION IV – JULY 10-12, 2009
Santa Monica, CA
WESTSIDE SCOOTER CLUB Presents Scoot Invasion IV– 10 year anniversary rally. “Classic & vintage scooters only” - July 10th -12th 2009
July 10th – Friday – meet and greet coastal -night ride
8:30 meet up @ 90 west Lounge, 12740 Culver Blvd., Ste H, Los Angeles, CA 90066 - (310) 821-4000
9pm ride leave & ends at Cock N Bull for Soul Invasion – Weekender –night #1
July 11th – Saturday – westside’s signature canyone ride
11am meet up @ cock n bull pub, 2947 Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405 - (310) 399-9696
4-6PM: brennans’ pub – happy hour, 4089 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del Rey, CA 90292 - (310) 821-6622
8:30 pm sat night – night ride. meet up @ cock n bull pub, 2947 Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405 - (310) 399-9696
9pm ride leaves & ends at Faisdodo for soul invasion weekender –night #2
july12- Sunday – Beverly hills ride –Reservoir stop
11am meet up @ TOMMYS BURGER, 1900 Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405
Ride ends : Bar Melody, 9132 S Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045 (entrance in the rear)
3pm- until party ,food, drinks Raffle, Scooter contest and djs , dancing - Scoot Banquet & Soul Weekender – night # 3 closing party
FOR MORE INFO: WWW.WESTSIDESCOOTERCLUB.COM
INFO@WESTSIDESCOOTERCLUB.COM
SOUTH BAY SC MONTHLY RIDE – AUGUST 1, 2009
Torrance, CA
Come on out for the longest-running, regular ride in SoCal: the South Bay Scooter Club's Monthly Ride! All scooters welcome.
Meet at 12:30am at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish. RAIN CANCELS.
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com
SAN FRANCISCO CLASSIC – AUGUST 7-9, 2009
San Francisco, CA
The much anticipated return of the San Francisco Classic. More information to be posted at: http://www.sanfranciscoclassic.com.
SWERVE N CURVE "X" (#10) – AUGUST 21-23, 2009
Torrance, CA
Yup, this year will be The BIG "X" --- Swerve N Curve #10!!!
Mark the date on your calendar, NOW, and plan on being there. We are planning on making it the biggest Swerve N Curve EVER!
It’s all about fun and sun by the beaches of south and westside Los Angeles.
Here is a tentative itinerary (subject to change):
FRIDAY, AUG 21:
7:30pm: “Meet ‘N’ Greet” at TBD.
9pm: Leave for Beach Night Ride #1 in the South Bay
10pm: Return to TBD
SATURDAY, AUG 22:
11am: Meet at Claim Jumper restaurant, in Torrance (corner of Crenshaw & Lomita Blvd’s)
12noon: Ride leaves for the famous “Swerve N Curve” route around Palos Verdes.
(Westside/”Northern” riders, meet at the Cock N Bull Pub in Santa Monica at 9:30am; Ride leaves at 10:30am to meet the rest of the group at Claim Jumper in Torrance)
We will end the ride at TBD; Rally Packs will be available for sale.
Evening ride/festivities:
8pm: Meet at the Cock N Bull Pub in Santa Monica.
9pm: Ride leaves for Beach Night Ride #2 on the Westside (Special “Canals Ride”” through Venice and the Marina). Italian scooters only for this ride, please.
10pm: Arrive for the SWERVE N CURVE DANCE EXTRAVAGANZA! at BAR MELODY, 9132 Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester, CA 90405, (310) 670-1994. Doors open at 9PM. Those with rally packs get 1/2 off cover of $4. Regular admission $4 before 11pm, $8 afterwards. Ladies FREE before 10:30pm. FULL BAR / All ages. Special DJ’s playing Reggae, Soul, Brit Pop, Ska & Mod all night long for your listening pleasure: Jesse Trejo (WSSC), Jason Lawless (Ram Jam Club), Ted Morris (Ram Jam Club, Trojan Lounge), Kristin Storli (WSSC/Bar Italia), and Sean Needham (WSSC). FREE scooter parking; Rally packs will be available for sale.
SUNDAY, AUG 23:
11am: Meet at the Cock N Bull Pub in Santa Monica.
12noon: Ride leaves for ride along the beaches in the South Bay.
We will end the ride at TBD
Wheelie contest and scooter awards to follow. Raffle????
Itinerary is subject to change, so please keep checking the South Bay & Westside websites.
PLEASE GAS UP BEFORE ALL RIDES!
FOR MORE INFORMATION, please visit the following websites:
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com
http://www.westsidescootclub.com/
Contacts:
Mario: 310-770-9819 – info@southbayscooterclub.com
Marv: 310-480-6225 – info@westsidescootclub.com
CONCORDIA 2009 – AUGUST 29, 2009
Long Beach, CA
The Concords have put together another jumping party at DiPiazzas in Long Beach on August 29. Doors open at 7pm, bands go on at 8pm. We have great DJs spinning Ska, Mod, Northern Soul and Reggae. We have four bands lined up: The Commotions, Kingston a Go-Go, The New Fidelity and The Suppressors. $10 cover. 21 and over. During the day The Long Beach Classic Scooter Club will be having their monthly classic scooter only ride which will end at DiPiazzas.
WESTSIDE SCOOT & QUE – SEPTEMBER 13, 2009
Marina Del Rey, CA
After many years of hiding and requests, the Westside are bringing back the old WSSC Scoot & Que. In year's past, they were at Westside Justin's and Chris Griffith's homes. This time, they are going to have it at a beachfront property in Marina Del Rey, courtesy of Westside Peter. The front yard of the property is the sand. Great location to swim, layout and hang! This is a vintage & classic scooter event only, please. Beach attire suggested. More info to come.
ENDLESS SUMMER #9 – SEPT. 18-20, 2009
Santa Barbara, CA
Endless Summer Rally "Revolution #9", will be on September 18 through 20, 2009.
Friday, Sept. 18th:
5PM - Meet N Greet @ Vespa Santa Barbara. Speedy night time ride. Experienced riders only.
Saturday, Sept. 19th:
9AM - Meet @ Vespa Santa Barbara; Schmooze a little while, buy your rally packs & raffle tickets.
11AM - Ride leaves TBD, followed by a BBQ and some TBD night time fun!
Sunday, Sept. 20th:
10AM - Meet @ Vespa Santa Barbara; Ride & lunch TBD.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
The New Vespa GTS 300 is here!
Piaggio Group USA Introduces the New 2009 Vespa GTS 300 Super
Fastest Vespa ever zooms into maxi scooter category with timeless Italian style and craftsmanship
NEW YORK, January 16, 2009 – Italian manufacturer Piaggio, renowned for revolutionary ideas in personal transportation, announces the U.S. debut of the 2009 Vespa GTS 300 Super, the newest evolution of its best-selling mid-size scooter, the GTS 250. Sporting a new high-displacement engine and a collection of racing-inspired components and exterior treatments that complement its high-performance character, the GTS 300 Super has been designed to set pulse points pounding whether in motion or at rest.
As the fastest Vespa in the company’s U.S. product portfolio, the new GTS 300 Super is always ready to stir up excitement. New styling elements that signal its sporty intentions include an eye-catching side grille on the rear engine panel, two-tone alloy wheel rims, a racing red suspension cover on the front spring and a black-rimmed headlight. A new front shield features a stylish chrome air intake, reinforcing its sporty personality and stylish stance.
“The GTS 300 Super doesn’t just stand out in the crowd – it gets you out of the crowd,” says Paolo Timoni, President and CEO of Piaggio Group Americas. “Whether you need to accelerate away from traffic or take advantage of parking spaces that others only dream about fitting in, the GTS 300 Super does it with Vespa’s unique mix of Italian attitude and style.”
Vespas have always been the preferred scooters for those who want to send a message about the importance of personal choice, freedom and authenticity. The company has produced over 17 million scooters since its debut in 1946 and the brand has been immortalized by artists and individualists through the decades.
Nerves of Steel, Born to Perform
Like all Vespa scooters, the GTS 300 Super features the company’s exclusive steel frame design. This unique feature has set Vespa apart from other two wheelers ever since the first model debuted in 1946. By using a steel unibody versus a welded plastic-covered tube frame, every Vespa delivers superior torsional rigidity – up to 250% more than other scooters. The result is a machine that’s not only a thrill to look at, but one that provides exceptional precision in handling and response.
Underneath the tough steel exterior of the GTS 300 Super is a 278cc four-stroke single cylinder, liquid-cooled, electronic injection engine. Boasting a high level of torque and few revolutions per minute, the GTS 300 Super provides peak flexibility and maximum acceleration - making it an exceptional choice for city commuters. The twist-and-go continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) allows smooth and easy operation for hassle-free navigation through even the toughest stop-and-go traffic.
Twelve-inch wheels insure a stable ride over pot-hole scarred streets and double-disc brakes allow riders to stop quickly, with confidence. Like all Vespas, the GTS 300 Super sips fuel. Its carbon footprint is pint-size and it exceeds strict U.S. CARB emission standards. And, while owners save fuel and the environment, the scooter’s slim stance also helps reduce congestion – it will happily share one full-size SUV parking space with six of its scooter siblings.
Despite its streamlined stance, the GTS 300 Super is big on cargo capacity. Plentiful under-seat storage space is sufficient for storing helmets, groceries - you name it! And, a broad range of accessories, such as a rear top case and soft luggage, add to the scooter’s functionality.
The 2009 Vespa GTS 300 Super is available at U.S. Vespa retailers starting in March. Color choices include Shiny Black or Optic White. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $6,199.
About The Piaggio Group:
Established in 1884 by Rinaldo Piaggio and based in Pontedera (Pisa, Italy), the Piaggio Group is one of the world’s top manufacturers of two-wheel motor vehicles. With over 7,000 employees, an annual production of more than 708,000 vehicles in 2007, 5 R&D centers, 7 production facilities in Europe and Asia, and operations in over 50 countries, the Piaggio Group has a consolidated leadership in the European two-wheeler market.
The company produces scooters, motorcycles and mopeds in the 50cc to 1,200 cc displacement range, marketed under the Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera, Derbi, Aprilia, Scarabeo and Moto Guzzi brands. The Group also manufactures three- and four-wheel light transportation vehicles for the Ape, Porter and Quargo ranges.
Contact:
Anne Szczesny
Brandware PR for Piaggio Group Americas
770.649.0880, Ext. 303
annes@brandwarepr.com
Fastest Vespa ever zooms into maxi scooter category with timeless Italian style and craftsmanship
NEW YORK, January 16, 2009 – Italian manufacturer Piaggio, renowned for revolutionary ideas in personal transportation, announces the U.S. debut of the 2009 Vespa GTS 300 Super, the newest evolution of its best-selling mid-size scooter, the GTS 250. Sporting a new high-displacement engine and a collection of racing-inspired components and exterior treatments that complement its high-performance character, the GTS 300 Super has been designed to set pulse points pounding whether in motion or at rest.
As the fastest Vespa in the company’s U.S. product portfolio, the new GTS 300 Super is always ready to stir up excitement. New styling elements that signal its sporty intentions include an eye-catching side grille on the rear engine panel, two-tone alloy wheel rims, a racing red suspension cover on the front spring and a black-rimmed headlight. A new front shield features a stylish chrome air intake, reinforcing its sporty personality and stylish stance.
“The GTS 300 Super doesn’t just stand out in the crowd – it gets you out of the crowd,” says Paolo Timoni, President and CEO of Piaggio Group Americas. “Whether you need to accelerate away from traffic or take advantage of parking spaces that others only dream about fitting in, the GTS 300 Super does it with Vespa’s unique mix of Italian attitude and style.”
Vespas have always been the preferred scooters for those who want to send a message about the importance of personal choice, freedom and authenticity. The company has produced over 17 million scooters since its debut in 1946 and the brand has been immortalized by artists and individualists through the decades.
Nerves of Steel, Born to Perform
Like all Vespa scooters, the GTS 300 Super features the company’s exclusive steel frame design. This unique feature has set Vespa apart from other two wheelers ever since the first model debuted in 1946. By using a steel unibody versus a welded plastic-covered tube frame, every Vespa delivers superior torsional rigidity – up to 250% more than other scooters. The result is a machine that’s not only a thrill to look at, but one that provides exceptional precision in handling and response.
Underneath the tough steel exterior of the GTS 300 Super is a 278cc four-stroke single cylinder, liquid-cooled, electronic injection engine. Boasting a high level of torque and few revolutions per minute, the GTS 300 Super provides peak flexibility and maximum acceleration - making it an exceptional choice for city commuters. The twist-and-go continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) allows smooth and easy operation for hassle-free navigation through even the toughest stop-and-go traffic.
Twelve-inch wheels insure a stable ride over pot-hole scarred streets and double-disc brakes allow riders to stop quickly, with confidence. Like all Vespas, the GTS 300 Super sips fuel. Its carbon footprint is pint-size and it exceeds strict U.S. CARB emission standards. And, while owners save fuel and the environment, the scooter’s slim stance also helps reduce congestion – it will happily share one full-size SUV parking space with six of its scooter siblings.
Despite its streamlined stance, the GTS 300 Super is big on cargo capacity. Plentiful under-seat storage space is sufficient for storing helmets, groceries - you name it! And, a broad range of accessories, such as a rear top case and soft luggage, add to the scooter’s functionality.
The 2009 Vespa GTS 300 Super is available at U.S. Vespa retailers starting in March. Color choices include Shiny Black or Optic White. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $6,199.
About The Piaggio Group:
Established in 1884 by Rinaldo Piaggio and based in Pontedera (Pisa, Italy), the Piaggio Group is one of the world’s top manufacturers of two-wheel motor vehicles. With over 7,000 employees, an annual production of more than 708,000 vehicles in 2007, 5 R&D centers, 7 production facilities in Europe and Asia, and operations in over 50 countries, the Piaggio Group has a consolidated leadership in the European two-wheeler market.
The company produces scooters, motorcycles and mopeds in the 50cc to 1,200 cc displacement range, marketed under the Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera, Derbi, Aprilia, Scarabeo and Moto Guzzi brands. The Group also manufactures three- and four-wheel light transportation vehicles for the Ape, Porter and Quargo ranges.
Contact:
Anne Szczesny
Brandware PR for Piaggio Group Americas
770.649.0880, Ext. 303
annes@brandwarepr.com
Monday, January 12, 2009
Rucksters follow-up
OK, real quick: Manny Del Toro (aka, "goatlover") informed me of an upcoming Rucksters ride that was coming up this past Sunday. So, I hopped on my Vespa Rally 200 and cruised to one of the satellite meeting spots, which was a few blocks from my house, a Starbucks in Lakewood. When I got there, I pulled up next to all the other scooters that were there and was asked if I was riding with them. I said yes, and they explained the reason they asked is because sometimes other scooterists see them and just pull up to talk. I assured them I had come for their ride and they welcomed me. It was a bit awkward, but a few of them came up and started talking to me about my Vespa. I in turn started finding out about their scooters and especially the mods that were available and that they had all done. Quite amazing stuff and very inventive, I might add.
While we in the vintage scooter community take pride in "sleepers" and "racers" that only alter the outward appearance of our scooters a little bit, while tuning the heck out of them internally, these guys took pride in customizing their machines so that they did not look like your typical floor model at all. I found out about kits that can extend the length of a scooter, mountings that let the engine and back wheel assembly move waaay back, in varying degrees. Then there were the wide rim kits for the back tire, engine upgrades, engine swaps, etc. Motorcycle forks, grips, Chines engine cowls, etc. were all freely used. The thing is, the way the Honda Ruckus is built, with basically a steel tubing system that you just attach parts to, you can modify and attach just about anything you want, whether it be LED lights, alarm systems, racks and other accessories, carbon fiber bits and pieces, etc. Some of them even had GPS nav systems wired into their batteries! Reminded me of the original Lambretta models, with the bare frame tubing showing through, except now with modern tech on board.
"1947 Lambretta Model A" above, and new Ruckus below
After meeting at Starbucks, we cruised to the main meeting spot, which was "The Hat" in Rosemead. There, our 11 scooters came together with another 18 or so scooters, and more were joining up as we parked. That's when I got to really see a lot of the customization capabilities of these scooterists and their machines. Some of the riders even told me they had a Vespa or two as well. One had just bought a Lammie from Dean. Another had a P200, and so on. But the scoots they were riding today were all moded out. Check out these pics of some of the mods on these scooters:
To see all the other pics I shot, click here. I couldn't go on the long ride they were planning (my kid was sick @ home and had to get back), so I saw them off as they gassed up and took off for Phillipe's in downtown L.A., then Griffith Park, then the coast and beyond. Sounded like another full day of riding for them. Bet they had fun! Here's a video clip I shot from my digital camera as they took off:
As I said in my last post, we in the vintage community could learn a lot from these guys, as some of them have taken matters into their own hands and are now manufacturing their own accessories for their rides. Why not? Overall, nice group. And, even though I was on another type of scooter, they were very welcoming and invited me back. After seeing their energy and inventive ways they can modify scooters, I probably will be back... Again, why not? What Honest Mike shouted to me at the end of the above video comes to mind: "Riders ride!"
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Rucksters!
OK, so this is not usually part of what us vintage riders call the "scooter scene", but it can't be avoided that the "younger" generation are not running out and buying and riding vintage Italian scooters. There are some exceptions, of coarse, but for the most part 20-somethings are usually absent from many vintage scooter rides.
So, I pose the question: Why is this? 20-somethings are definitely involved in the vintage car scene, as well as the vintage motorcycle scene. Just the other day, I was fueling up my Vespa Rally 200 and ran into a guy, who couldn't have been more than 25, riding a vintage Norton. He told me how there are a bunch of college-aged guys, who have formed some riding clubs, based around riding vintage british and euro motorcycles these days.
Enter this 50cc scooter subculture that I have stumbled upon, through some info from some Ruckus riders who have joined us on a couple of South Bay SC rides (big shout out to Manny Del Toro for a lot of the pointers to this info and rides). This much younger demographic has discovered and embraced customizing and racing out 50cc+ scooters. A large group of them have focused their efforts around the Honda Ruckus that most of us vintage riders usually consider as being, #1: too slow, and #2: too ugly. But these younger riders have totally embraced these "modern" scooters with the customization skills and energy that a lot of us older riders attacked the scooter scene with back in the 1980's. Granted, they don't have the historical affects and culture behind them that the 80's mods did, such as the history of the 60's mod culture, style of dress, music, etc., but they do have the new street-style culture and they are making it their own with regard to "their" scooter scene.
And, I've been told that they get some serious numbers at monthly and big rides that they put on. It certainly seems so from the few videos I've been able to check out. Take, for example, the following vid. They've got a really good number of scoots on this impromptu ride, and it seems they ride ALL DAY, even into the early evening. And, check out all the crazy mods on these scooters. Fat tire conversions, neon, expansion chambers, etc., etc. And they are done with some good workmanship, as well as showmanship (they are very professionally presented):
Here's another one, of a smaller ride, but it highlights some other nice mods:
And, talk about having an entrepreneurial spirit, some of them decided in the beginning of November to put together a Ruckus Scooter Girl calendar (back story here). They got on it and, wham, they've done it! Check out the behind the scenes video of a pretty professional set of photo shoots for the calendar (heck, it even looks like they had a make-up artist or stylist on staff during the shoots):
Pretty damn interesting... Of coarse, I love my vintage Italian scooters, and still feel that they are the best scooters ever made. I've always loved manual transmissions on anything I drive (I've owned a couple of trucks, several sedans, lots of convertibles, and some muscle cars, and they've ALL had manual trannys. My current car is STILL a manual.). SO, scooters with gears, I feel, are definitely more fun to drive. But, the energy of this younger set of scooter riders definitely reminds me of when I was their age, and younger. I just wish some more of them could get turned on to vintage Italian scoots. I could just imagine the crazy machines they would build. It would upset A LOT of purists, but it'd be very interesting to see... I'm sure the kandy color combos and modern accessories would boggle the mind, but it would be fun to see.
Coming back to my original question, though, of where the next generation of vintage aficionados will come from, how are these younger folks supposed to become vintage scooter lovers if they are treated with disdain and rejection by current vintage riders because of what they are riding now? Or are these specific young riders set to be the "Sports Motorcycle" riders and the vintage riders the "Harley-Davidson" riders of the scooter world? Bottom line is the younger vintage scooter riders will not have the mod/punk/ska scene/culture from the 80's to fuel part of their love for these scooters (cuz some of them were just being born in the 80's), so if us older riders don't nurture that in some way with them now, or in a few years, the scene is bound to die out for sure, perhaps resembling the Cushman scooter lovers who are all now in their 70's and 80's, riding them at Shriner's conventions as a novelty...
Meanwhile, I guess I'll just be another fat, old dude, on an even older scooter, and wave to these guys when I see 'em, or lead some of them again on another fun South Bay SC ride whenever they feel like it.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
New Piaggio Scooters at the Motorcycle Shows
This PRESS RELEASE just in from Piaggio USA's PR company:
For Immediate Release:
Piaggio Group Showcases Newest Scooters and Motorcycles at Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows
Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio and Vespa Offer Enthusiasts a World of Reasons to Ride
December 2, 2008 – Fuel-efficient scooters, high-tech sport bikes, award winning three-wheelers and long-distance tourers are just some of the tempting options Italy’s Piaggio Group, manufacturer of Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, and Vespa brands, will showcase at six stops on the 28th Annual Cycle World International Motorcycle Show® (IMS) tour. Visitors to
the IMS shows in Long Beach, CA., Seattle, WA., San Mateo, CA., New York, NY., Cleveland, OH., and Chicago, IL., will have a chance to evaluate at their leisure which ride is an ideal fit. In addition, demo rides will be available at the Long Beach, CA., show.
Visitors who are intrigued by the many real-world benefits of scooters should plan on touring the IMS show’s new Scooter Pavilion where Vespa, Piaggio and Aprilia scooters will be display at all 13 show locations.
Whether in the market for an easy to ride, eco-friendly scooter or a race-bred sport bike, the world of Piaggio products offers smart transportation choices for today’s diverse commuting and recreation needs. Among the 2009 models featured at the IMS shows are these new choices:
Aprilia Mana 850: Advanced technology is the key characteristics of the Mana 850. Aprilia’s racing pedigree led to the revolutionary transmission mapping system, which offers a choice of three “Autodrive” mappings, plus a manual, seven speed, sequential gearshift, giving riders revolutionary new tools for maximizing performance and fuel economy in any traffic condition.
Aprilia SportCity 50/125: Featuring aggressive styling, superior aerodynamics and precision handling, the SportCity is a leader in the sport scooter category. Race-inspired technology means no rider has to sacrifice safety and performance when choosing a smaller displacement
scooter.
Moto Guzzi V7 Classic: The V7 Classic has all the ‘naked’ sports bike beauty of the iconic original V7, a model that earned this legendary brand global acclaim in the 1960s and 70s. While styling invokes the spirit of its famous predecessor, there’s nothing retro about the 2009 V7’s technology. An abundance of low-down torque, superb ergonomics and the inimitable music of the Moto Guzzi transverse V-Twin make the V7 a unique choice.
Vespa GTS 250: As the fastest, most technically advanced Vespa to-date, the GTS 250 is the sporty ride of choice for commuters who want to get up and go the distance. Ideal for urban or highway miles, the GTS 250’s timeless Italian style blends beautifully with the modern four-stroke, four-valve engine technology. Like all Vespas, the GTS’s unique steel frame provides unparalleled structural integrity and the collection of premium components and materials adds to the scooters exceptionally high resale value.
Piaggio MP3 500: The award-winning MP3 500 is the perfect solution for riders who want aggressive good looks, sport bike like performance and all the ease, stability and convenience of a three-wheel scooter. The MP3 500’s innovative suspension technology means you lean into turns like a pro racer while enjoying glue-like traction and great fuel economy. In-town or cross-country, the MP3 500 goes the distance.
About The Piaggio Group:
Established in 1884 by Rinaldo Piaggio and based in Pontedera (Pisa, Italy), the Piaggio Group is one of the world’s top manufacturers of two-wheel motor vehicles. With over 7,000 employees, an annual production of more than 708,000 vehicles in 2007, 5 R&D centers, 7 production facilities in Europe and Asia, and operations in over 50 countries, the Piaggio Group has a consolidated leadership in the European two-wheeler market.
The company produces scooters, motorcycles and mopeds in the 50cc to 1,200cc displacement range, marketed under the Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera, Derbi, Aprilia, Scarabeo and Moto Guzzi brands. The Group also manufactures three- and four-wheel light transportation vehicles for the Ape, Porter and Quargo ranges.
Contact:
Anne Szczesny
Brandware PR for Piaggio Group Americas
770.649.0880 ext.303
aszczesny@brandwarepr.com
For Immediate Release:
Piaggio Group Showcases Newest Scooters and Motorcycles at Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows
Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio and Vespa Offer Enthusiasts a World of Reasons to Ride
December 2, 2008 – Fuel-efficient scooters, high-tech sport bikes, award winning three-wheelers and long-distance tourers are just some of the tempting options Italy’s Piaggio Group, manufacturer of Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, and Vespa brands, will showcase at six stops on the 28th Annual Cycle World International Motorcycle Show® (IMS) tour. Visitors to
the IMS shows in Long Beach, CA., Seattle, WA., San Mateo, CA., New York, NY., Cleveland, OH., and Chicago, IL., will have a chance to evaluate at their leisure which ride is an ideal fit. In addition, demo rides will be available at the Long Beach, CA., show.
Visitors who are intrigued by the many real-world benefits of scooters should plan on touring the IMS show’s new Scooter Pavilion where Vespa, Piaggio and Aprilia scooters will be display at all 13 show locations.
Whether in the market for an easy to ride, eco-friendly scooter or a race-bred sport bike, the world of Piaggio products offers smart transportation choices for today’s diverse commuting and recreation needs. Among the 2009 models featured at the IMS shows are these new choices:
Aprilia Mana 850: Advanced technology is the key characteristics of the Mana 850. Aprilia’s racing pedigree led to the revolutionary transmission mapping system, which offers a choice of three “Autodrive” mappings, plus a manual, seven speed, sequential gearshift, giving riders revolutionary new tools for maximizing performance and fuel economy in any traffic condition.
Aprilia SportCity 50/125: Featuring aggressive styling, superior aerodynamics and precision handling, the SportCity is a leader in the sport scooter category. Race-inspired technology means no rider has to sacrifice safety and performance when choosing a smaller displacement
scooter.
Moto Guzzi V7 Classic: The V7 Classic has all the ‘naked’ sports bike beauty of the iconic original V7, a model that earned this legendary brand global acclaim in the 1960s and 70s. While styling invokes the spirit of its famous predecessor, there’s nothing retro about the 2009 V7’s technology. An abundance of low-down torque, superb ergonomics and the inimitable music of the Moto Guzzi transverse V-Twin make the V7 a unique choice.
Vespa GTS 250: As the fastest, most technically advanced Vespa to-date, the GTS 250 is the sporty ride of choice for commuters who want to get up and go the distance. Ideal for urban or highway miles, the GTS 250’s timeless Italian style blends beautifully with the modern four-stroke, four-valve engine technology. Like all Vespas, the GTS’s unique steel frame provides unparalleled structural integrity and the collection of premium components and materials adds to the scooters exceptionally high resale value.
Piaggio MP3 500: The award-winning MP3 500 is the perfect solution for riders who want aggressive good looks, sport bike like performance and all the ease, stability and convenience of a three-wheel scooter. The MP3 500’s innovative suspension technology means you lean into turns like a pro racer while enjoying glue-like traction and great fuel economy. In-town or cross-country, the MP3 500 goes the distance.
About The Piaggio Group:
Established in 1884 by Rinaldo Piaggio and based in Pontedera (Pisa, Italy), the Piaggio Group is one of the world’s top manufacturers of two-wheel motor vehicles. With over 7,000 employees, an annual production of more than 708,000 vehicles in 2007, 5 R&D centers, 7 production facilities in Europe and Asia, and operations in over 50 countries, the Piaggio Group has a consolidated leadership in the European two-wheeler market.
The company produces scooters, motorcycles and mopeds in the 50cc to 1,200cc displacement range, marketed under the Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera, Derbi, Aprilia, Scarabeo and Moto Guzzi brands. The Group also manufactures three- and four-wheel light transportation vehicles for the Ape, Porter and Quargo ranges.
Contact:
Anne Szczesny
Brandware PR for Piaggio Group Americas
770.649.0880 ext.303
aszczesny@brandwarepr.com
Monday, August 25, 2008
Swerve N Curve 9 wrap-up
Well, it came and went --- SWERVE N CURVE #9. And, it was better than ever!
The Friday night ride turned out to be a sweet, long, mini Swerve N Curve route, lead by All Day South Bay Doug. Everyone met at Killkenny's on the Redondo Beach Pier beforehand and Doug ended the ride at Hennessey's in Riviera Village afterwards.
And the South Bay's famous Swerve N Curve route on Saturday, often imitated or outright copied but NEVER done as well, was a blast once more, 80+ scooters strong, ending at the fun venue, Paddy-O's in Torrance. DeeJay-ed tunes were provided by "ON TARGET" DJ's, and a scooter buffet was set up for all the hungry riders.
"Swerve N Ska" on Saturday nite was happening, and Sunday's ride, led by Tank Top and others to Keegan's in Torrance, was a great capper to another SoCal classic rally, which was a huge success.
Shout outs to all who helped, especially Doug Ewer, Richard & Robin Wondra, Brian & Veronica Schade, Ken Salmacia, Marv Mack, Jesse "On Target" Trejo, Rich Stamper and others in both the South Bay and Westside scooter clubs.
Thanks also goes out to all of the Swerve N Curve sponsors. Without you, Swerve N Curve would not be possible: This Dog Jumps Design, Vespa Santa Barbara, Fullerton Vintage, Massimo's Vespa Shop, Route 66 Scooters (formerly SoCal Vespa), IDC Scooter Shop, Clauss Studios, SpeedoKing, Warrior Clothing, Glory Clothing.
For pics of the rally, click here and here, or check out the scoot.net gallery here. For a couple of videos by Doug Ewer, click here and here. Thanks to all of you who came out - you are the ones that continue to make this such a great rally, year after year! Be sure to save the date for next year's rally, which will be the Big "X" (Swerve N Curve #10), going down August 21-23, 2009!!!!
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
The Can-Am Spyder: Born to be mild
I was reading one of my favorite news & business website this morning and noticed a particularly interesting interactive article about a new "motorcycle".
It's called the Can-Am Spyder, made by Bombardier Recreational Products, and it looks almost like a Piaggio MP3 on steroids. Just like the MP3, it has two front wheels with independent, leaning suspension. It also has a borrowed Rotax 990 Aprilia engine, which we all know is made by Piaggio. But, it behaves more like a motorcycle in that it shifts using a clutch lever and a foot pedal (though you can supposedly add a clutchless thumbshift transmission for approx $1500). It has a five speed tranny with a reverse gear and a belt drive (read easy maintenance, here).
The thing is a lot heavier, though, than any Piaggio product. How about a dry weight of 697 pounds? Yikes. Definitely as heavy as a motorcycle, if not more so. The good thing is it doesn't seem like it will ever tip over --- not only for the fact that it has three wheels, but even while you are pushing it through any turn, it has a Bosch stability system that will apply the brakes and cut the engine if the Spyder starts to tip.
Check out the interactive article on Portfolio.com: click here.
It's called the Can-Am Spyder, made by Bombardier Recreational Products, and it looks almost like a Piaggio MP3 on steroids. Just like the MP3, it has two front wheels with independent, leaning suspension. It also has a borrowed Rotax 990 Aprilia engine, which we all know is made by Piaggio. But, it behaves more like a motorcycle in that it shifts using a clutch lever and a foot pedal (though you can supposedly add a clutchless thumbshift transmission for approx $1500). It has a five speed tranny with a reverse gear and a belt drive (read easy maintenance, here).
The thing is a lot heavier, though, than any Piaggio product. How about a dry weight of 697 pounds? Yikes. Definitely as heavy as a motorcycle, if not more so. The good thing is it doesn't seem like it will ever tip over --- not only for the fact that it has three wheels, but even while you are pushing it through any turn, it has a Bosch stability system that will apply the brakes and cut the engine if the Spyder starts to tip.
Check out the interactive article on Portfolio.com: click here.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Scooterist down!
As we are all wishing for the speedy recovery of Josh Rogers, partner at Scoot Magazine (read about his accident at the Scoot blog: http://www.scootmagazine.com/blog.php), last weekend a scooterist went down on the Westside ride to Club Soulside. Here is the latest info, straight from Ken Salmacia, aka "Tank Top":
###
Gang,
I spoke with Douglas today. He is doing better and able to hobble around on crutches.
Oop's on the prior e-mail. Here is a correct e-mail for Douglas. Let's be sure to give him our support. herethisisdouglas.here@hotmail.com
From: Ken Salmacia [mailto:ks@SaroyanLumber.com]
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2008 7:29 PM
Subject: Scooterist Down!
Scoots,
I hope this email finds you well.
Unfortunately Douglas crashed on the ride to Souldside Saturday night. Let's give our support and give him a ring or an email. It was a really scary event. We are so glad he is going to be ok. It could have been worse! We wish him all the Best!
Douglas's cell 818 859-3212, email herethisisdouglas.here@hotmail.com, myspace www.myspace.com/thewhomygeneration
Photo are posted. I also attached a few pictures.
http://www.westsidescootclub.com/photos.php?image_gallery_id=66
We also have a post on the Westside Form. Please chime in.
http://www.westsidescootclub.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=498
Here is a recap from Whobike Mike . . .
As some of you may have heard, we had a rider go down last night on the way to Soulside. Doug the mod (not really a WSSC member but a regular at Soulside, Satisfaction, etc.) appears to be OK (pending results of X-rays) but was taken to hospital for his injuries. His beautiful GL still runs but the frame appears to be bent beyond repair. Doug was taken to St Joseph's hospital in Burbank, his scooter was taken to Bar Italia.
Here's an update from Doug (taken from MySpace):
Didn't quite make it to Soulside last night. Scooter is totalled, but may be able to be fixed. Hositalized, but released with no broken bones, just banged up left knee, badly sprained ankle and some good ol' road rash. suit. ruined. pride. damaged. pics coming soon.
thanks to the fellas I rode with for taking care of me and my bike following the crash, and to all who called with their concerns.
---> douglas
Doug, we wish you a speedy recovery and hope to see you on your repaired scoot sometime soon!
###
Gang,
I spoke with Douglas today. He is doing better and able to hobble around on crutches.
Oop's on the prior e-mail. Here is a correct e-mail for Douglas. Let's be sure to give him our support. herethisisdouglas.here@hotmail.com
From: Ken Salmacia [mailto:ks@SaroyanLumber.com]
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2008 7:29 PM
Subject: Scooterist Down!
Scoots,
I hope this email finds you well.
Unfortunately Douglas crashed on the ride to Souldside Saturday night. Let's give our support and give him a ring or an email. It was a really scary event. We are so glad he is going to be ok. It could have been worse! We wish him all the Best!
Douglas's cell 818 859-3212, email herethisisdouglas.here@hotmail.com, myspace www.myspace.com/thewhomygeneration
Photo are posted. I also attached a few pictures.
http://www.westsidescootclub.com/photos.php?image_gallery_id=66
We also have a post on the Westside Form. Please chime in.
http://www.westsidescootclub.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=498
Here is a recap from Whobike Mike . . .
As some of you may have heard, we had a rider go down last night on the way to Soulside. Doug the mod (not really a WSSC member but a regular at Soulside, Satisfaction, etc.) appears to be OK (pending results of X-rays) but was taken to hospital for his injuries. His beautiful GL still runs but the frame appears to be bent beyond repair. Doug was taken to St Joseph's hospital in Burbank, his scooter was taken to Bar Italia.
Here's an update from Doug (taken from MySpace):
Didn't quite make it to Soulside last night. Scooter is totalled, but may be able to be fixed. Hositalized, but released with no broken bones, just banged up left knee, badly sprained ankle and some good ol' road rash. suit. ruined. pride. damaged. pics coming soon.
thanks to the fellas I rode with for taking care of me and my bike following the crash, and to all who called with their concerns.
---> douglas
Doug, we wish you a speedy recovery and hope to see you on your repaired scoot sometime soon!
Piaggio finally coming out with the Vespa S
So, I got this e-mail from Piaggio USA today announcing the Vespa S model coming out. It will be interesting to see, now that Piaggio is filling up its current product line with different models, if sales figures keep up across the board and if any of the other models get "retired" like the ET line has. We'll see. Here is the e-mail FYI:
###
The 2008 Vespa S is the latest addition to Vespa's U.S. scooter line. Here
are all the details - if you'd like images, just let us know. We will also
have press scooters available in the Los Angeles and New Jersey fleets
starting the end of March/early April. If you're interested in scheduling a
product review, we're here to to help.
# # #
Piaggio Group USA Announces the New 2008 Vespa S
Classic or customized, this Vespa celebrates the rebel in you
NEW YORK, March 10, 2008 – Italian manufacturer Piaggio, renowned for
revolutionary ideas in personal transportation, announces the debut of the
2008 Vespa S, a retro-forward 150cc interpretation of the iconic “Vespino”
scooters that dominated the European street scene in the ‘60s and ‘70s.
Combining advanced technology and iconic styling, the new Vespa S embraces
the rebellious spirit that inspired an entire generation to change the
world. With its pure, minimalist lines, sporty performance, inconspicuous
carbon footprint and creative customization options, the Vespa S is now
ready to empower a whole new generation of riders to challenge the
conventions of our time.
Vespa Heritage: Designed to Change the World
When Italian manufacturer Piaggio introduced its first Vespa scooters in the
post-war 1940’s, they were born of functional necessity: personal mobility
for the masses in a changing era. Though designed to be simple, sturdy and
economical, the sense of Italian style was never an afterthought. The
Vespa’s aircraft-inspired unibody frame, with its clean, efficient lines,
stylish contours and revolutionary features set a design benchmark that
introduced comfort and elegance to the sensibility of personal transport.
Prominently featured in the 1952 film Roman Holiday, the Vespa began to play
a role in popular culture and became an international phenomenon. Beloved by
bohemians, artists and actors, Vespa also remained a populist icon, a
testament to its charm. In the 50’s, European Vespa clubs numbered in the
tens of thousands, while American screen icons John Wayne and Marlon Brando
took to the streets on Vespas between takes. British mods, celebrated in
such films as Alfie and Quadrophenia, rallied around Vespa a decade later.
During the 60’s and 70’s, the Vespa Special and Primavera models became
symbols for the revolutionary ideas of the time. As the protest movement
raged, Hollywood stars such as Steve McQueen and Dennis Hopper chose Vespas
for their personal style statements and Innovative advertisements and style
refinements kept the Vespa ahead of the cultural curve during the 70’s.
Today, the Vespa S continues the company’s unique ability to capture its
rebellious spirit in one technically advanced package.
Trademark Styling, Advanced Engineering
The spirit and soul of the 2008 Vespa S is in the authentic details.
Classic Vespa trademarks such as chrome trim, the minimalist front shield,
the unique rectangular headlight first seen in the 50 Special, the rounded
rear light and a 70s-inspired single-seat saddle with contrasting piping all
pay homage to the Vespa S’ legendary predecessors.
The Vespa’s structural integrity is just as innovative as its design. The
Vespa’s high-strength steel body acts as the scooter’s structural frame, a
design solution unique in the world of scooter production. In addition to
superior strength, the frame is exceptionally rigid, resulting in excellent
road holding and precision control. The scooter’s low center of gravity
also makes riding it supremely simple.
Equipped with an advanced front disc/rear drum brake system, the Vespa S
offers confident stopping power. The 11” front and 10” rear wheels with
light alloy rims add to the Vespa S’ excellent stability, and a 150cc
single-cylinder, four-stroke engine delivers sporty acceleration. Located
inside the body, the 2.3 gallon fuel tank allows easy access to the engine
and maximizes the size of the under-seat storage compartment.
Sporty and agile performance combined with low emissions and high fuel
economy reflect Vespa’s commitment to safety, reliability and environmental
respect. Like all Vespa scooters, the clean-running Vespa S sips fuel while
delivering miles of riding thrills – over 90 miles for every gallon of gas.
And, with a top speed of 59 miles per hour, the four-stroke Vespa S is ready
to get you to your next protest march, reunion tour – or the office - in
record time.
Make Your Vespa Your Canvas
Vespa has always been synonymous with freedom of expression, and the Vespa S
invites buyers to show their creative side with six new optional graphic
kits. Easily applied at the dealership, each decal collection celebrates an
element of Vespa’s heritage and personality. For example, buyers can show
their passion for la dolce vitae with stylized Italian flag decals or rock
on with a very “Mod” United Kingdom flag theme. A Sixties-style flower motif
and a retro rally theme complete the collection.
Additional accessories for the Vespa S include a matching body-color 8 ½
gallon top box, a chrome-plated tilting rear luggage rack and a
European-style half-helmet.
The 2008 Vespa S has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of
$4099. Available colors include Dragon Red, Shiny Black and Optic White.
For more information on the Vespa S visit www.vespausa.com.
About The Piaggio Group:
With over 6,700 employees, an annual production of more than 680,000
vehicles in 2006, 5 R&D centers, 7 production facilities in Europe and Asia,
and operations in over 50 countries, the Piaggio Group has a consolidated
leadership in the European 2 wheeler market. Its production includes
scooters, motorcycles and mopeds in the 50cc to 1,200 cc displacement range,
marketed under the Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera, Derbi, Aprilia, Scarabeo and Moto
Guzzi brands.
###
The 2008 Vespa S is the latest addition to Vespa's U.S. scooter line. Here
are all the details - if you'd like images, just let us know. We will also
have press scooters available in the Los Angeles and New Jersey fleets
starting the end of March/early April. If you're interested in scheduling a
product review, we're here to to help.
# # #
Piaggio Group USA Announces the New 2008 Vespa S
Classic or customized, this Vespa celebrates the rebel in you
NEW YORK, March 10, 2008 – Italian manufacturer Piaggio, renowned for
revolutionary ideas in personal transportation, announces the debut of the
2008 Vespa S, a retro-forward 150cc interpretation of the iconic “Vespino”
scooters that dominated the European street scene in the ‘60s and ‘70s.
Combining advanced technology and iconic styling, the new Vespa S embraces
the rebellious spirit that inspired an entire generation to change the
world. With its pure, minimalist lines, sporty performance, inconspicuous
carbon footprint and creative customization options, the Vespa S is now
ready to empower a whole new generation of riders to challenge the
conventions of our time.
Vespa Heritage: Designed to Change the World
When Italian manufacturer Piaggio introduced its first Vespa scooters in the
post-war 1940’s, they were born of functional necessity: personal mobility
for the masses in a changing era. Though designed to be simple, sturdy and
economical, the sense of Italian style was never an afterthought. The
Vespa’s aircraft-inspired unibody frame, with its clean, efficient lines,
stylish contours and revolutionary features set a design benchmark that
introduced comfort and elegance to the sensibility of personal transport.
Prominently featured in the 1952 film Roman Holiday, the Vespa began to play
a role in popular culture and became an international phenomenon. Beloved by
bohemians, artists and actors, Vespa also remained a populist icon, a
testament to its charm. In the 50’s, European Vespa clubs numbered in the
tens of thousands, while American screen icons John Wayne and Marlon Brando
took to the streets on Vespas between takes. British mods, celebrated in
such films as Alfie and Quadrophenia, rallied around Vespa a decade later.
During the 60’s and 70’s, the Vespa Special and Primavera models became
symbols for the revolutionary ideas of the time. As the protest movement
raged, Hollywood stars such as Steve McQueen and Dennis Hopper chose Vespas
for their personal style statements and Innovative advertisements and style
refinements kept the Vespa ahead of the cultural curve during the 70’s.
Today, the Vespa S continues the company’s unique ability to capture its
rebellious spirit in one technically advanced package.
Trademark Styling, Advanced Engineering
The spirit and soul of the 2008 Vespa S is in the authentic details.
Classic Vespa trademarks such as chrome trim, the minimalist front shield,
the unique rectangular headlight first seen in the 50 Special, the rounded
rear light and a 70s-inspired single-seat saddle with contrasting piping all
pay homage to the Vespa S’ legendary predecessors.
The Vespa’s structural integrity is just as innovative as its design. The
Vespa’s high-strength steel body acts as the scooter’s structural frame, a
design solution unique in the world of scooter production. In addition to
superior strength, the frame is exceptionally rigid, resulting in excellent
road holding and precision control. The scooter’s low center of gravity
also makes riding it supremely simple.
Equipped with an advanced front disc/rear drum brake system, the Vespa S
offers confident stopping power. The 11” front and 10” rear wheels with
light alloy rims add to the Vespa S’ excellent stability, and a 150cc
single-cylinder, four-stroke engine delivers sporty acceleration. Located
inside the body, the 2.3 gallon fuel tank allows easy access to the engine
and maximizes the size of the under-seat storage compartment.
Sporty and agile performance combined with low emissions and high fuel
economy reflect Vespa’s commitment to safety, reliability and environmental
respect. Like all Vespa scooters, the clean-running Vespa S sips fuel while
delivering miles of riding thrills – over 90 miles for every gallon of gas.
And, with a top speed of 59 miles per hour, the four-stroke Vespa S is ready
to get you to your next protest march, reunion tour – or the office - in
record time.
Make Your Vespa Your Canvas
Vespa has always been synonymous with freedom of expression, and the Vespa S
invites buyers to show their creative side with six new optional graphic
kits. Easily applied at the dealership, each decal collection celebrates an
element of Vespa’s heritage and personality. For example, buyers can show
their passion for la dolce vitae with stylized Italian flag decals or rock
on with a very “Mod” United Kingdom flag theme. A Sixties-style flower motif
and a retro rally theme complete the collection.
Additional accessories for the Vespa S include a matching body-color 8 ½
gallon top box, a chrome-plated tilting rear luggage rack and a
European-style half-helmet.
The 2008 Vespa S has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of
$4099. Available colors include Dragon Red, Shiny Black and Optic White.
For more information on the Vespa S visit www.vespausa.com.
About The Piaggio Group:
With over 6,700 employees, an annual production of more than 680,000
vehicles in 2006, 5 R&D centers, 7 production facilities in Europe and Asia,
and operations in over 50 countries, the Piaggio Group has a consolidated
leadership in the European 2 wheeler market. Its production includes
scooters, motorcycles and mopeds in the 50cc to 1,200 cc displacement range,
marketed under the Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera, Derbi, Aprilia, Scarabeo and Moto
Guzzi brands.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Rat Rod Rally
OK, I'm pretty psyched about the pinstripe paint job my home boy, Malex, did on my Rat Rod Rally this past weekend. Came out tight, I think. Guy does great work, and extremely reasonably priced! Check out his website when you get a chance: http://www.pinheadlounge.com/malex
And here are the pics:
And here are the pics:
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Latest SoCal Scooterist Calendar
Here is the latest version of the SoCal Scooter Newsletter Calendar:
THE REFLECTIONS ANNIVERSARY AND HALLOWEEN POKER RUN – FRIDAY, OCT 26, 2007
Hollywood, CA
Join the Reflections Scooter Society in celebrating our anniversary & the debut of our Halloween Poker Run.
Pick up cards as we ride to some of the spookiest stops in Los Angeles, best hand wins, costumes encouraged!
The ride culminates at Sabor Lounge as Lawless Street in association with A & M Entertainment presents Jah Abiding Citizens, The Roundabouts, and Manganista!
Come on out and show us your Halloween spirit.
Meetup: October 26, 8:00pm Sabor y Cultura in Hollywood. Ride leaves promptly at 8:30.
Haunted details on our MySpace page and website:
http://www.myspace.com/reflectionsscootersociety
http://www.reflectionssociety.com/about.htm
For more info, contact Denver Dave: brownbrothersproduction@yahoo.com

PhonIEs IN YOUR FACE RIDE(s) - Oct 27-28, 2007
Illest Empire, CA
Saturday, Meet at noon in Riverside at the Royal Falconer Pub, 4281 Main St. on the corner of Main and 13th off of Market St.
Sunday, meet at the Legends Hamburger joint in Rancho Cucamonga on the corner of Mountain and 16th (Baseline). Also meets at noon.
These are the best rides in socal, better than riding in traffic around industrial areas at the docks!!
We will be stopping for gas, so don’t worry about that. Don’t bring any slow bikes either.
For info contact: Danny / 909-627-8478

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s MONTHLY RIDE – NOV 3, 2007
Torrance, CA
Same bat channel, same bat time:
Meet at 12:30pm at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish.
Come on out for the longest-running, regular ride in SoCal: the South Bay Scooter Club's Monthly Ride!
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

BEST OF FRANCE AND ITALY SHOW – NOV 4, 2007
Woodley, Park, Van Nuys, CA
Come join us at Woodley Park, Van Nuys for a day with the best of French and Italian motoring machinery. This a non-judged show, from the rough restoration project to the serious concours offering. All are welcome, and our pricing structure is geared toward the collector with more than one vehicle.
If you don't have a car, plenty will be for sale amongst the rows of gleaming machinery. The intent of this gathering is to provide a meeting place for those marques that get little attention at the fancier concours. If you're looking to unload the garage or for that special part, check out our swap meet.
The registration fee is the same for both cars and swap meet vendors. Motorcycles, mopeds and scooters are $10 for the first and $5 for the second; additional motorcycles are free. Late registration will be available at the gate on the day of the event. Entry forms must be mailed no later than October 25, 2007. For an entry form, go to: http://www.franceanditaly.com/info.html
A parking area is provided for trailers and tow vehicles. Food will be available or bring a picnic (no alcohol please).
We are sure it will be day you don't want to miss. Go here for a map and directions: http://maps.google.com/maps?q=6350+Woodley+Ave+Van+Nuys,+CA&spn=0.025666,0.037834&hl=en
Contact us at info@franceanditaly.com or by voice, (626) 797-4221.
Website: http://www.franceanditaly.com

20th ANNIVERSARY TUCSON-NOGALES RALLY – NOV 9-11, 2007
Tucson, AZ / Nogales, AZ
Come be a part of scooter history and ride in one of the oldest scooter rallies in the South West U.S. The rally begins at the Hotel Congress in historic downtown Tucson. Come down on the 9th starting at 6pm for rally registration, mingling, music, drinks and, of course, scooters. The hotel fills up very quickly, so click on the link below to reserve your room NOW! FYI the hotel does supply secured scooter parking.
Saturday morning, the rally departs from the Hotel Congress for a 125-mile ride through the beautiful scenic landscape of southwestern Arizona. We will have a mid-way stop in the rustic town of Patagonia for gas, drinks and to stretch our legs. From Patagonia, we will continue on through Nogales, Arizona to our legendary, isolated, reserved, group campsite in the Coronado National Forest.
At the Calabasas campsite, we will be greeted by a catered BBQ, multiple kegs of beer, music and a bonfire. Several campsites, firepits, firewood and restroom are available. It can get cold at the campsite, so don't forget tents, sleeping bags and other camping gear.
Sunday, we will awaken from our hangovers for a Mexican breakfast of eggs, potatoes, coffee, chorizo, tortillas and menudo.
For more information: Contact Matthew or Megan Noli @ 520.591.6945 or tucsonrally@hotmail.com
Attention: Any scooter clubs, old or new, that have participated in this historic scooter rally in the past, please contact Matthew in order for your club to receive acknowledgement at this years rally.
For more info: http://www.tucsonscooterrally.com/

6th ANNUAL OAK GLENN APPLE RIDE – NOV 10, 2007
Riverside/Oak Glenn, CA
The Stingers SC in Riverside put on their 6th annual Oak Glen Apple Ride this year. Yeah, we’ve been doing this for six years now, and I know it’s the same weekend as Tucson/Nogales, but what the hell, if you can’t make that one, come out to Riverside for what is always a very cool ride full of twisties and fast roads. This is a vintage & modern friendly ride; it’s always been. The ride is usually about 100 miles round trip, most of which will be under 50mph. There is an elevation climb by the time we reach Oak Glen, so be prepared for a climb before getting to Oak Glen.
Like always, patches are free.
Friday night:
Meet and greet at the Royal Falconer in Downtown Riverside at 7:00pm, ride leaves around but not exactly at 9:00pm.
4281 Main Street
Riverside, Ca
951-684-4281
Saturday:
Meet up at the parking lot across the corner from the Royal Falconer at 10:30am, ride leaves around but not exactly at 11:30am.
muscleman_coffeemesto@yahoo.com
for info contact: 714-553-3528

“CLASSIC NOT PLASTIC” – NOV 23-24, 2007
Long Beach, CA
The Long Beach Classic Scooter Club , Diablos Scooter Cult & Jackalopes SC have announced their first “Classic Not Plastic” Scooter Rally, scheduled for November 23rd – 24th, 2007. Obviously, this rally will be for Classic/Vintage scooters only.
ITINERARY:
Meet & Greet Friday Nov. 23rd at 8:00 PM @ The Puka Bar 710 W. Willow St. Long Beach, Ca. 90810 DJ's, Rally Packs, & Tropical drinks
Saturday Nov. 24th at 10:00AM Meet up @ Alex's bar 2913 E. Anaheim Long Beach, CA. Ride leaves @ 11:00 for a 1 & 1/2 hour coastal ride. and returns to Alex's for Barbeque, DJ's Scooter show, Raffle...
http://www.classicnotplastic.homestead.com/index.html

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’S 6th ANNUAL “NAUGHTY BUTT NICE” X-MAS LIGHTS RIDE & PARTY – DECEMBER 1, 2007
Torrance, CA
Sponsored by the South Bay Scooter Club
Come join our Holiday tradition of riding to and through the famous South Bay X-Mas Lights Neighborhood (a tract of houses that go absolutely bonkers decorating their houses with X-mas lights, moving Christmas figures and holiday lawn displays). This is always followed by our club’s annual Holiday Party. All are welcome!!
Meet at Claim Jumper’s restaurant (corner of Crenshaw & Lomita Blvd.’s) in Torrance at 4pm; ride leaves promptly at 5pm! Don’t forget to DRESS WARM!!
If you have any questions, e-mail: info@southbayscooterclub.com

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s RIDE TO THE LONG BEACH MOTORCYCLE SHOW – DECEMBER 8, 2007
Torrance to Long Beach , CA
December's regular SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB'S monthly ride will be postponed from December 1st to December 8th so that we can ride over to the International Motorcycle Show at the Long Beach Convention Center. Piaggio, as always, will have a booth at the show.
Meet at Claim Jumper in Torrance (corner of Crenshaw and Lomita Blvds) at 11am; Ride leaves at 11:30am for the show.
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

WESTSIDE SCOOTER CLUB’s HOLIDAY PARTY/CLUB SOULSIDE – DECEMBER 8, 2007
Santa Monica, CA
Westside Holiday Party will be happening at CLUB SOULSIDE the evening of Dec 8th.
SOULSIDE DJS PLAYING THE BEST OF NORTHERN SOUL, FUNK, REGGAE, MOD, MOTOWN AND SKA
WHERE: COCK N BULL PUB, 2947 LINCOLN BLVD SANTA MONICA CA 90405 310. 399.9696
Admission: $8 – DOORS OPEN AT 9:30PM
SCOOTER PARKING ALLNIGHT ***21 & OVER***

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s 7th ANNUAL NEW YEAR RIDE TO THE BEACH – JAN 5, 2008
Torrance, CA
Come out for an annual South Bay tradition: riding our scoots to the beach, taking pictures and sending them to all our relatives shivering in the snow or rain, lol!
First Saturday of every new year!!!
Meet at 12:30pm at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish.
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

LAS VEGAS HIGH ROLLERS WEEKEND – FEBRUARY 15-18, 2008
Las Vegas, NV
Put it on your Calendar. More details soon.
AllstonEP@yahoo.com
for info contact: 617-461-3979
http://www.HighRollersWeekend.com
HEDONISM (LAST CALL – LAST ONE!!!!!) – APRIL 25-27, 2008
Bakersfield, CA
last call, LAST ONE, THIS IS IT!
This years price is 20 dollars which includes campsite fees, and all the food, and beer and soda at the campsite plus embroidered patch.
FRIDAY APRIL 25 - Meet and Greet - Meet at Zingo’s Cafe 3201 Buck Owens Blvd. Ride through Bakersfield leaves at 9 p.m. THIS MIGHT CHANGE THIS YEAR.
SATURDAY APRIL 26 - Meet at Beach Park at 11 a.m. Beach Park is located at 24th Street and Oak Street - Bakersfield, CA. Entrance is on 21st Street. Just off the 99 freeway, downtown/178 west exit. Ride leaves at 1 p.m. We will stop for gas at the edge of town.
Ride to the campground: The ride to the campground is about 60 miles. If you can’t make that distance on a tank of gas, you may need to bring a gas can. Bikes must be able to hold 45 mph on the open roads please, otherwise, all bikes are welcome.
Your bike MUST be in good condition as this is a mountain ride. Your brakes and tires must be up to the task. (Not to scare anyone off, this ride is incredibly fun but we will be away from most conveniences and hospitals so we don’t want anybody to get hurt due to their bike being in unsafe condition). You will be allowed to ride at your own skill level. If you aren’t as steady through winding roads as other riders, don’t sweat it, you can work your way through, we won’t leave you on your own. We’ll take care of you.
For the rest of the night, we drain kegs, eat hamburgers and hot dogs [I realize some scooterists are vegetarians, if enough plant eaters let us know they are coming, we will try to have some gardenburgers on hand for you, if we don’t know you are coming, you’ll have to fend for yourself =P ]. The DJ’s will crank up the music, don’t be afraid to dance. The bathrooms are indoor, lit with running water, there is even a shower!
ALSO, DON’T FORGET THE RAFFLE!! This years GRAND PRIZE is a VESPA P200e !!
SUNDAY APRIL 27 - Wake up and get ready for the ride back to town. Ride leaves at 11 a.m. (or as soon as the campsite is cleaned haha).
40 miles through the Kern Canyon along the Killer Kern River back to Beach Park.
For all rally info contact: Brian: 559 709 4791, OR, John: 661 444 4795
Don’t like to camp? Here are some places you might be able to bed down. Call ASAP as it looks as though rooms are limited:
Kern River Inn Bed and Breakfast, 119 Kern River Dr, Kernville, CA 93238 760.376.6750 / 800.986.4382, http://www.kernriverinn.com
Lake Isabella Motel, Highways 155 and 178 Lake Isabella, 93240 760 379-2800
Lakeview Motel, 12090 Highway 178 Lake Isabella, 93240 760 379-8250, 800 929-8250
Paradise Cove Lodge, 10700 Hwy. 178 Lake Isabella, 93240 760 379-2719
Have any questions? Email us plus this is the last year of hedonism. b
for info contact: brian miller 1(559)709-4791, unforgivensc@comcast.net
http://unforgivensc.net/
THE REFLECTIONS ANNIVERSARY AND HALLOWEEN POKER RUN – FRIDAY, OCT 26, 2007
Hollywood, CA
Join the Reflections Scooter Society in celebrating our anniversary & the debut of our Halloween Poker Run.
Pick up cards as we ride to some of the spookiest stops in Los Angeles, best hand wins, costumes encouraged!
The ride culminates at Sabor Lounge as Lawless Street in association with A & M Entertainment presents Jah Abiding Citizens, The Roundabouts, and Manganista!
Come on out and show us your Halloween spirit.
Meetup: October 26, 8:00pm Sabor y Cultura in Hollywood. Ride leaves promptly at 8:30.
Haunted details on our MySpace page and website:
http://www.myspace.com/reflectionsscootersociety
http://www.reflectionssociety.com/about.htm
For more info, contact Denver Dave: brownbrothersproduction@yahoo.com

PhonIEs IN YOUR FACE RIDE(s) - Oct 27-28, 2007
Illest Empire, CA
Saturday, Meet at noon in Riverside at the Royal Falconer Pub, 4281 Main St. on the corner of Main and 13th off of Market St.
Sunday, meet at the Legends Hamburger joint in Rancho Cucamonga on the corner of Mountain and 16th (Baseline). Also meets at noon.
These are the best rides in socal, better than riding in traffic around industrial areas at the docks!!
We will be stopping for gas, so don’t worry about that. Don’t bring any slow bikes either.
For info contact: Danny / 909-627-8478

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s MONTHLY RIDE – NOV 3, 2007
Torrance, CA
Same bat channel, same bat time:
Meet at 12:30pm at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish.
Come on out for the longest-running, regular ride in SoCal: the South Bay Scooter Club's Monthly Ride!
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

BEST OF FRANCE AND ITALY SHOW – NOV 4, 2007
Woodley, Park, Van Nuys, CA
Come join us at Woodley Park, Van Nuys for a day with the best of French and Italian motoring machinery. This a non-judged show, from the rough restoration project to the serious concours offering. All are welcome, and our pricing structure is geared toward the collector with more than one vehicle.
If you don't have a car, plenty will be for sale amongst the rows of gleaming machinery. The intent of this gathering is to provide a meeting place for those marques that get little attention at the fancier concours. If you're looking to unload the garage or for that special part, check out our swap meet.
The registration fee is the same for both cars and swap meet vendors. Motorcycles, mopeds and scooters are $10 for the first and $5 for the second; additional motorcycles are free. Late registration will be available at the gate on the day of the event. Entry forms must be mailed no later than October 25, 2007. For an entry form, go to: http://www.franceanditaly.com/info.html
A parking area is provided for trailers and tow vehicles. Food will be available or bring a picnic (no alcohol please).
We are sure it will be day you don't want to miss. Go here for a map and directions: http://maps.google.com/maps?q=6350+Woodley+Ave+Van+Nuys,+CA&spn=0.025666,0.037834&hl=en
Contact us at info@franceanditaly.com or by voice, (626) 797-4221.
Website: http://www.franceanditaly.com

20th ANNIVERSARY TUCSON-NOGALES RALLY – NOV 9-11, 2007
Tucson, AZ / Nogales, AZ
Come be a part of scooter history and ride in one of the oldest scooter rallies in the South West U.S. The rally begins at the Hotel Congress in historic downtown Tucson. Come down on the 9th starting at 6pm for rally registration, mingling, music, drinks and, of course, scooters. The hotel fills up very quickly, so click on the link below to reserve your room NOW! FYI the hotel does supply secured scooter parking.
Saturday morning, the rally departs from the Hotel Congress for a 125-mile ride through the beautiful scenic landscape of southwestern Arizona. We will have a mid-way stop in the rustic town of Patagonia for gas, drinks and to stretch our legs. From Patagonia, we will continue on through Nogales, Arizona to our legendary, isolated, reserved, group campsite in the Coronado National Forest.
At the Calabasas campsite, we will be greeted by a catered BBQ, multiple kegs of beer, music and a bonfire. Several campsites, firepits, firewood and restroom are available. It can get cold at the campsite, so don't forget tents, sleeping bags and other camping gear.
Sunday, we will awaken from our hangovers for a Mexican breakfast of eggs, potatoes, coffee, chorizo, tortillas and menudo.
For more information: Contact Matthew or Megan Noli @ 520.591.6945 or tucsonrally@hotmail.com
Attention: Any scooter clubs, old or new, that have participated in this historic scooter rally in the past, please contact Matthew in order for your club to receive acknowledgement at this years rally.
For more info: http://www.tucsonscooterrally.com/

6th ANNUAL OAK GLENN APPLE RIDE – NOV 10, 2007
Riverside/Oak Glenn, CA
The Stingers SC in Riverside put on their 6th annual Oak Glen Apple Ride this year. Yeah, we’ve been doing this for six years now, and I know it’s the same weekend as Tucson/Nogales, but what the hell, if you can’t make that one, come out to Riverside for what is always a very cool ride full of twisties and fast roads. This is a vintage & modern friendly ride; it’s always been. The ride is usually about 100 miles round trip, most of which will be under 50mph. There is an elevation climb by the time we reach Oak Glen, so be prepared for a climb before getting to Oak Glen.
Like always, patches are free.
Friday night:
Meet and greet at the Royal Falconer in Downtown Riverside at 7:00pm, ride leaves around but not exactly at 9:00pm.
4281 Main Street
Riverside, Ca
951-684-4281
Saturday:
Meet up at the parking lot across the corner from the Royal Falconer at 10:30am, ride leaves around but not exactly at 11:30am.
muscleman_coffeemesto@yahoo.com
for info contact: 714-553-3528

“CLASSIC NOT PLASTIC” – NOV 23-24, 2007
Long Beach, CA
The Long Beach Classic Scooter Club , Diablos Scooter Cult & Jackalopes SC have announced their first “Classic Not Plastic” Scooter Rally, scheduled for November 23rd – 24th, 2007. Obviously, this rally will be for Classic/Vintage scooters only.
ITINERARY:
Meet & Greet Friday Nov. 23rd at 8:00 PM @ The Puka Bar 710 W. Willow St. Long Beach, Ca. 90810 DJ's, Rally Packs, & Tropical drinks
Saturday Nov. 24th at 10:00AM Meet up @ Alex's bar 2913 E. Anaheim Long Beach, CA. Ride leaves @ 11:00 for a 1 & 1/2 hour coastal ride. and returns to Alex's for Barbeque, DJ's Scooter show, Raffle...
http://www.classicnotplastic.homestead.com/index.html

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’S 6th ANNUAL “NAUGHTY BUTT NICE” X-MAS LIGHTS RIDE & PARTY – DECEMBER 1, 2007
Torrance, CA
Sponsored by the South Bay Scooter Club
Come join our Holiday tradition of riding to and through the famous South Bay X-Mas Lights Neighborhood (a tract of houses that go absolutely bonkers decorating their houses with X-mas lights, moving Christmas figures and holiday lawn displays). This is always followed by our club’s annual Holiday Party. All are welcome!!
Meet at Claim Jumper’s restaurant (corner of Crenshaw & Lomita Blvd.’s) in Torrance at 4pm; ride leaves promptly at 5pm! Don’t forget to DRESS WARM!!
If you have any questions, e-mail: info@southbayscooterclub.com

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s RIDE TO THE LONG BEACH MOTORCYCLE SHOW – DECEMBER 8, 2007
Torrance to Long Beach , CA
December's regular SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB'S monthly ride will be postponed from December 1st to December 8th so that we can ride over to the International Motorcycle Show at the Long Beach Convention Center. Piaggio, as always, will have a booth at the show.
Meet at Claim Jumper in Torrance (corner of Crenshaw and Lomita Blvds) at 11am; Ride leaves at 11:30am for the show.
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

WESTSIDE SCOOTER CLUB’s HOLIDAY PARTY/CLUB SOULSIDE – DECEMBER 8, 2007
Santa Monica, CA
Westside Holiday Party will be happening at CLUB SOULSIDE the evening of Dec 8th.
SOULSIDE DJS PLAYING THE BEST OF NORTHERN SOUL, FUNK, REGGAE, MOD, MOTOWN AND SKA
WHERE: COCK N BULL PUB, 2947 LINCOLN BLVD SANTA MONICA CA 90405 310. 399.9696
Admission: $8 – DOORS OPEN AT 9:30PM
SCOOTER PARKING ALLNIGHT ***21 & OVER***

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s 7th ANNUAL NEW YEAR RIDE TO THE BEACH – JAN 5, 2008
Torrance, CA
Come out for an annual South Bay tradition: riding our scoots to the beach, taking pictures and sending them to all our relatives shivering in the snow or rain, lol!
First Saturday of every new year!!!
Meet at 12:30pm at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish.
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

LAS VEGAS HIGH ROLLERS WEEKEND – FEBRUARY 15-18, 2008
Las Vegas, NV
Put it on your Calendar. More details soon.
AllstonEP@yahoo.com
for info contact: 617-461-3979
http://www.HighRollersWeekend.com
HEDONISM (LAST CALL – LAST ONE!!!!!) – APRIL 25-27, 2008
Bakersfield, CA
last call, LAST ONE, THIS IS IT!
This years price is 20 dollars which includes campsite fees, and all the food, and beer and soda at the campsite plus embroidered patch.
FRIDAY APRIL 25 - Meet and Greet - Meet at Zingo’s Cafe 3201 Buck Owens Blvd. Ride through Bakersfield leaves at 9 p.m. THIS MIGHT CHANGE THIS YEAR.
SATURDAY APRIL 26 - Meet at Beach Park at 11 a.m. Beach Park is located at 24th Street and Oak Street - Bakersfield, CA. Entrance is on 21st Street. Just off the 99 freeway, downtown/178 west exit. Ride leaves at 1 p.m. We will stop for gas at the edge of town.
Ride to the campground: The ride to the campground is about 60 miles. If you can’t make that distance on a tank of gas, you may need to bring a gas can. Bikes must be able to hold 45 mph on the open roads please, otherwise, all bikes are welcome.
Your bike MUST be in good condition as this is a mountain ride. Your brakes and tires must be up to the task. (Not to scare anyone off, this ride is incredibly fun but we will be away from most conveniences and hospitals so we don’t want anybody to get hurt due to their bike being in unsafe condition). You will be allowed to ride at your own skill level. If you aren’t as steady through winding roads as other riders, don’t sweat it, you can work your way through, we won’t leave you on your own. We’ll take care of you.
For the rest of the night, we drain kegs, eat hamburgers and hot dogs [I realize some scooterists are vegetarians, if enough plant eaters let us know they are coming, we will try to have some gardenburgers on hand for you, if we don’t know you are coming, you’ll have to fend for yourself =P ]. The DJ’s will crank up the music, don’t be afraid to dance. The bathrooms are indoor, lit with running water, there is even a shower!
ALSO, DON’T FORGET THE RAFFLE!! This years GRAND PRIZE is a VESPA P200e !!
SUNDAY APRIL 27 - Wake up and get ready for the ride back to town. Ride leaves at 11 a.m. (or as soon as the campsite is cleaned haha).
40 miles through the Kern Canyon along the Killer Kern River back to Beach Park.
For all rally info contact: Brian: 559 709 4791, OR, John: 661 444 4795
Don’t like to camp? Here are some places you might be able to bed down. Call ASAP as it looks as though rooms are limited:
Kern River Inn Bed and Breakfast, 119 Kern River Dr, Kernville, CA 93238 760.376.6750 / 800.986.4382, http://www.kernriverinn.com
Lake Isabella Motel, Highways 155 and 178 Lake Isabella, 93240 760 379-2800
Lakeview Motel, 12090 Highway 178 Lake Isabella, 93240 760 379-8250, 800 929-8250
Paradise Cove Lodge, 10700 Hwy. 178 Lake Isabella, 93240 760 379-2719
Have any questions? Email us plus this is the last year of hedonism. b
for info contact: brian miller 1(559)709-4791, unforgivensc@comcast.net
http://unforgivensc.net/
Monday, October 01, 2007
Gilera Fuoco 500 (MP3-style) coming to the USA
From the Blogspot called "The Scooter Scoop", comes this report about next year's version of the Piaggio MP3's:
Gilera Fuoco 500 to arrive in the USA as the Piaggio MP3 500 (CONFIRMED)
The Piaggio MP3-400 (In the current MP3 body style except with the extra power we've all been waiting for) will be arriving at dealerships as soon as January.
The Piaggio MP3-500 (A rebadged Gilera Fuoco 500) will arrive around March with an expected MSRP approaching the $10k mark. Well, what did you expect? Hotness has a price.
The elusive Vespa S (the cute one with the thin leg shields and rectangular headlight) is supposed to arrive before Q2, 2008 with a 150cc engine and an MSRP of about $4,000.
***UPDATE 9/19/07***
The Honky-Tonk Dragon is droppin' THESE numbers for MSRP:
"Per a reliable source on Modern Vespa"
The 250 will be $7199 next year (They are $6999 right now).
The 400 will be $8699 and the 500 will be $8899.
And the Vespa S 150 will be $4099
Friday, September 21, 2007
SoCal Scooter Calendar
Here are the latest upcoming events, going all the way into 2008, even!!! Cheers - GRX
I. CURRENT EVENTS/RALLY INFORMATION:
------------------------------------------------
ENDLESS SUMMER – SEPTEMBER 21-23, 2007
Santa Barbara, CA
The Vesparados Scooter Club of Santa Barbara proudly presents the
Endless Summer Rally 7
September 21-23, 2007
Santa Barbara, CA
Friday 9/21:
Meet at 6:00 pm at the NEW Vespa Santa Barbara! --118 E. Ortega, just around the corner from the 'old place'. Buy your Rally Pack and Raffle Tickets (Lambretta TV175 and other good stuff!)
Night ride leaves at 8pm, a fantastic tour of SB from all vantage points.
Saturday 9/22:
9:30 am Meet at shop for donuts and coffee; Rally Pack/Raffle Ticket sales
Ride leaves at 12 pm. Cool new roads a la 'scoot-b'
Ride ends at Leadbetter Beach
1-2pm BBQ, Beer, Raffle ticket sales --remember that Lammy COULD be yours!
2 pm RAFFLE
2:30 pm Vintage Only ride ...get that oldie fired up and enjoy...BTW 'VINTAGE' is 1983 and older...
NITETIME....we're cutting you loose on the town...GO CRAZY!
Sunday 9/23:
Meet at 11:00 am, Vespa SB for a 12 noon ride up to Cold Springs Tavern.Cold Springs Tavern. Great tri-tip sandwiches in a great outdoor setting
Homeward bound, be safe, thanks for coming!
Note: All times/rides are subject to change--watch for updates!
SEE YOU THERE!
Info: http://www.vesparados.com/rally/index.html
THIS FROM MITCH:
FIRST OFF: RAIN CANCELS!!!
On Saturday the 22nd, meet at Cock & Bull Pub at like 8:15am ; we will leave for SB at 8:30am meet the Ventura guys at say 9:30-9:45am and then get to SB like 10:30 or 11am
Mitch; mitcho399@earthlink.net
Here is the Endless Summer itinerary for Saturday 9/22:
9:30 am Meet at shop for donuts and coffee
Rally Pack/Raffle Ticket sales
Ride leaves at 12 pm. Cool new roads a la 'scoot-b'
Ride ends at Leadbetter Beach
1-2pm BBQ, Beer, Raffle ticket sales --remember that Lammy COULD be yours!
2 pm RAFFLE
2:30 pm Vintage Only ride ...get that oldie fired up and enjoy...
BTW 'VINTAGE' is 1983 and older...

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s MONTHLY RIDE – OCTOBER 6, 2007
Torrance, CA
I know not having a monthly ride in September killed you, but fear not! - The October one will snap you outta your funk.
We will be doing the reverse Swerve N Curve route, going up the switchback twisty canyon road, then going around the PV Peninsula, cruising the South Bay beach cities and ending up at a cool eatery at the Manhattan Beach Pier, right on the water.
Same bat channel, same bat time:
Meet at 12:30pm at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish.
Come on out for the longest-running, regular ride in SoCal: the South Bay Scooter Club's Monthly Ride!
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

FULLERTON VINTAGE OKTOBERFEST RIDE – OCTOBER 6, 2007
Fullerton, CA
This month, we are mixing it up. We will be riding to the Oktoberfest at Alpine Village in Torrance!
Meet at Fullerton Vintage Scooter Shop at 4pm; Ride leaves at 4:30pm. We will arrive at Alpine Village at 6pm, when they open!!
Fullerton Vintage is at 1020 S. Raymond Avenue, Unit #F, Fullerton CA 92831 – 714-449-9963
http://www.fullertonvintage.com

SKUTOBERFEST 11 – OCTOBER 6, 2007
San Diego, CA
Skutoberfest with Secret society Scooter Club SD!!
Saturday OKtober 6th. San Diego
Dust off the lederhosen, it’s that time again. Skutoberfest is 11 years old and we’re celebrating with a great day of riding, German beer, bratwurst and oom-pah pah music. Secret Society SC SD will lead a scenic route through our great city. We will do the loop up to Mt. Helix, and onward to El Cajon.
To top it off, the German American Society has extended a special invitation to the most authentic Oktoberfest in town. All riders and their passengers get in for free with monitored scoot parking right up front.
Details: Saturday Oktober 6th. Where: Gelato Vero Caffe (3753 India St San Diego 92103) Meet at 10am. We’re leaving at 11am. No Joke. No scooter time. It's a long ride so be gassed up (station is across the street).
Ride through SD with a stop on Mt. Helix to The Oktoberfest in El Cajon.
Afterwards shower off the bratwurst and strudel smell and meet back up for the night ride at Kensington coffee(4141 Adams Ave, San Diego 92116) at 7pm. If you can't make the ride at night, meet us at The Live Wire(2103 El Cajon Blvd San Diego 92116).
http://www.secretsociety.org

2nd ANNUAL VCLA DISNEYLAND RIDE – OCTOBER 14, 2007
Anaheim, CA
Sponsored by the Vespa Club of Los Angeles
The Vespa Club of Los Angeles will once again be leading a ride down to the "Happiest Place on Earth", and spending the day inside the park once we get there. As it will be decorated for Halloween, be prepared for a Disney-spooky time, especially at the Haunted Mansion, which always gets a spooky makeover for "their" holiday.
Meet at 9:30am at the Starbucks at the intersection of Culver & Washington, in downtown Culver City.
Ride leaves at 10:30am.
MEET LOCATION SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Check here for all the updates: http://www.vespaclublosangeles.org/calendar.html

SOUTHBAYSCOOTOBERFEST – OCTOBER 20, 2007
Torrance, CA
It’s that time of year to do our annual ride to Oktoberfest at Alpine Village in our backyard of Torrance!!!
Beer, Om-Pa-Pa Bands direct from Germany, Chicken Dancing, Contests, oh, and MORE BEER!!
6pm: We’ll meet at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds)
Ride will leave at 7pm-ish for Alpine Village!
Entrance is usually $5 but it is FREE if you go to this web page, print out the coupon and bring it for admission: http://www.alpinevillage.net/coupon.htm
KNOW YOUR LIMITS! You are all responsible adults (hopefully!) and responsible for your own actions. Don’t drink to excess, don’t make us take away your scooter keys, or worse, scrape you off the ground... Bring a cel phone to call either a friend, loved one, or taxi to pick your ass up if you get too drunk...!
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s MONTHLY RIDE – NOV 3, 2007
Torrance, CA
Same bat channel, same bat time:
Meet at 12:30pm at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish.
Come on out for the longest-running, regular ride in SoCal: the South Bay Scooter Club's Monthly Ride!
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

20th ANNIVERSARY TUCSON-NOGALES RALLY – NOV 9-11, 2007
Tucson, AZ / Nogales, AZ
Come be a part of scooter history and ride in one of the oldest scooter rallies in the South West U.S. The rally begins at the Hotel Congress in historic downtown Tucson. Come down on the 9th starting at 6pm for rally registration, mingling, music, drinks and, of course, scooters. The hotel fills up very quickly, so click on the link below to reserve your room NOW! FYI the hotel does supply secured scooter parking.
Saturday morning, the rally departs from the Hotel Congress for a 125-mile ride through the beautiful scenic landscape of southwestern Arizona. We will have a mid-way stop in the rustic town of Patagonia for gas, drinks and to stretch our legs. From Patagonia, we will continue on through Nogales, Arizona to our legendary, isolated, reserved, group campsite in the Coronado National Forest.
At the Calabasas campsite, we will be greeted by a catered BBQ, multiple kegs of beer, music and a bonfire. Several campsites, firepits, firewood and restroom are available. It can get cold at the campsite, so don't forget tents, sleeping bags and other camping gear.
Sunday, we will awaken from our hangovers for a Mexican breakfast of eggs, potatoes, coffee, chorizo, tortillas and menudo.
For more information: Contact Matthew or Megan Noli @ 520.591.6945 or tucsonrally@hotmail.com
Attention: Any scooter clubs, old or new, that have participated in this historic scooter rally in the past, please contact Matthew in order for your club to receive acknowledgement at this years rally.
For more info: http://www.tucsonscooterrally.com/

6th ANNUAL OAK GLENN APPLE RIDE – NOV 10, 2007
Riverside/Oak Glenn, CA
The Stingers SC in Riverside put on their 6th annual Oak Glen Apple Ride this year. Yeah, we"ve been doing this for six years now, and I know it"s the same weekend as Tucson/Nogales, but what the hell, if you can"t make that one, come out to Riverside for what is always a very cool ride full of twisties and fast roads. This is a vintage & modern friendly ride; it"s always been. The ride is usually about 100 miles round trip, most of which will be under 50mph. There is an elevation climb by the time we reach Oak Glen, so be prepared for a climb before getting to Oak Glen.
Like always, patches are always free.
Friday night:
Meet and greet at the Royal Falconer in Downtown Riverside at 7:00pm, ride leaves around but not exactly at 9:00pm.
4281 Main Street
Riverside, Ca
951-684-4281
Saturday:
Meet up at the parking lot across the corner from the Royal Falconer at 10:30am, ride leaves around but not exactly at 11:30am.
muscleman_coffeemesto@yahoo.com
for info contact: 714-553-3528

“CLASSIC NOT PLASTIC” – NOV 23-24, 2007
Long Beach, CA
The Long Beach Classic Scooter Club , Diablos Scooter Cult & Jackalopes SC have announced their first “Classic Not Plastic” Scooter Rally, scheduled for November 23rd – 24th, 2007. Obviously, this rally will be for Classic/Vintage scooters only.
ITINERARY:
Meet & Greet Friday Nov. 23rd at 8:00 PM @ The Puka Bar 710 W. Willow St. Long Beach, Ca. 90810 DJ's, Rally Packs, & Tropical drinks
Saturday Nov. 24th at 10:00AM Meet up @ Alex's bar 2913 E. Anaheim Long Beach, CA. Ride leaves @ 11:00 for a 1 & 1/2 hour coastal ride. and returns to Alex's for Barbeque, DJ's Scooter show, Raffle...
http://classicnotplastic.homestead.com/index.html

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s RIDE TO THE LONG BEACH MOTORCYCLE SHOW – DECEMBER 8, 2007
Torrance to Long Beach , CA
December's regular SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB'S monthly ride will be postponed from December 1st to December 8th so that we can ride over to the International Motorcycle Show at the Long Beach Convention Center. Piaggio, as always, will have a booth at the show.
Meet at Claim Jumper in Torrance (corner of Crenshaw and Lomita Blvds) at 11am; Ride leaves at 11:30am for the show.
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s 7th ANNUAL NEW YEAR RIDE TO THE BEACH – JAN 5, 2008
Torrance, CA
Come out for an annual South Bay tradition: riding our scoots to the beach, taking pictures and sending them to all our relatives shivering in the snow or rain, lol!
First Saturday of every new year!!!
Meet at 12:30pm at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish.
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

LAS VEGAS HIGH ROLLERS WEEKEND – FEBRUARY 15-18, 2008
Las Vegas, NV
Put it on your Calendar. More details soon.
AllstonEP@yahoo.com
for info contact: 617-461-3979
http://www.HighRollersWeekend.com

HEDONISM (LAST ONE!!!!!) – APRIL 25-27, 2008
Bakersfield, CA
last call, LAST ONE, THIS IS IT!
More info to come as this will be Hedonisms last year.
for info contact: Brian - 559 709 4791
unforgivensc@comcast.net
for info contact: brian miller 1(559)709-4791
unforgivensc.net
I. CURRENT EVENTS/RALLY INFORMATION:
------------------------------------------------
ENDLESS SUMMER – SEPTEMBER 21-23, 2007
Santa Barbara, CA
The Vesparados Scooter Club of Santa Barbara proudly presents the
Endless Summer Rally 7
September 21-23, 2007
Santa Barbara, CA
Friday 9/21:
Meet at 6:00 pm at the NEW Vespa Santa Barbara! --118 E. Ortega, just around the corner from the 'old place'. Buy your Rally Pack and Raffle Tickets (Lambretta TV175 and other good stuff!)
Night ride leaves at 8pm, a fantastic tour of SB from all vantage points.
Saturday 9/22:
9:30 am Meet at shop for donuts and coffee; Rally Pack/Raffle Ticket sales
Ride leaves at 12 pm. Cool new roads a la 'scoot-b'
Ride ends at Leadbetter Beach
1-2pm BBQ, Beer, Raffle ticket sales --remember that Lammy COULD be yours!
2 pm RAFFLE
2:30 pm Vintage Only ride ...get that oldie fired up and enjoy...BTW 'VINTAGE' is 1983 and older...
NITETIME....we're cutting you loose on the town...GO CRAZY!
Sunday 9/23:
Meet at 11:00 am, Vespa SB for a 12 noon ride up to Cold Springs Tavern.Cold Springs Tavern. Great tri-tip sandwiches in a great outdoor setting
Homeward bound, be safe, thanks for coming!
Note: All times/rides are subject to change--watch for updates!
SEE YOU THERE!
Info: http://www.vesparados.com/rally/index.html
THIS FROM MITCH:
FIRST OFF: RAIN CANCELS!!!
On Saturday the 22nd, meet at Cock & Bull Pub at like 8:15am ; we will leave for SB at 8:30am meet the Ventura guys at say 9:30-9:45am and then get to SB like 10:30 or 11am
Mitch; mitcho399@earthlink.net
Here is the Endless Summer itinerary for Saturday 9/22:
9:30 am Meet at shop for donuts and coffee
Rally Pack/Raffle Ticket sales
Ride leaves at 12 pm. Cool new roads a la 'scoot-b'
Ride ends at Leadbetter Beach
1-2pm BBQ, Beer, Raffle ticket sales --remember that Lammy COULD be yours!
2 pm RAFFLE
2:30 pm Vintage Only ride ...get that oldie fired up and enjoy...
BTW 'VINTAGE' is 1983 and older...

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s MONTHLY RIDE – OCTOBER 6, 2007
Torrance, CA
I know not having a monthly ride in September killed you, but fear not! - The October one will snap you outta your funk.
We will be doing the reverse Swerve N Curve route, going up the switchback twisty canyon road, then going around the PV Peninsula, cruising the South Bay beach cities and ending up at a cool eatery at the Manhattan Beach Pier, right on the water.
Same bat channel, same bat time:
Meet at 12:30pm at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish.
Come on out for the longest-running, regular ride in SoCal: the South Bay Scooter Club's Monthly Ride!
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

FULLERTON VINTAGE OKTOBERFEST RIDE – OCTOBER 6, 2007
Fullerton, CA
This month, we are mixing it up. We will be riding to the Oktoberfest at Alpine Village in Torrance!
Meet at Fullerton Vintage Scooter Shop at 4pm; Ride leaves at 4:30pm. We will arrive at Alpine Village at 6pm, when they open!!
Fullerton Vintage is at 1020 S. Raymond Avenue, Unit #F, Fullerton CA 92831 – 714-449-9963
http://www.fullertonvintage.com

SKUTOBERFEST 11 – OCTOBER 6, 2007
San Diego, CA
Skutoberfest with Secret society Scooter Club SD!!
Saturday OKtober 6th. San Diego
Dust off the lederhosen, it’s that time again. Skutoberfest is 11 years old and we’re celebrating with a great day of riding, German beer, bratwurst and oom-pah pah music. Secret Society SC SD will lead a scenic route through our great city. We will do the loop up to Mt. Helix, and onward to El Cajon.
To top it off, the German American Society has extended a special invitation to the most authentic Oktoberfest in town. All riders and their passengers get in for free with monitored scoot parking right up front.
Details: Saturday Oktober 6th. Where: Gelato Vero Caffe (3753 India St San Diego 92103) Meet at 10am. We’re leaving at 11am. No Joke. No scooter time. It's a long ride so be gassed up (station is across the street).
Ride through SD with a stop on Mt. Helix to The Oktoberfest in El Cajon.
Afterwards shower off the bratwurst and strudel smell and meet back up for the night ride at Kensington coffee(4141 Adams Ave, San Diego 92116) at 7pm. If you can't make the ride at night, meet us at The Live Wire(2103 El Cajon Blvd San Diego 92116).
http://www.secretsociety.org

2nd ANNUAL VCLA DISNEYLAND RIDE – OCTOBER 14, 2007
Anaheim, CA
Sponsored by the Vespa Club of Los Angeles
The Vespa Club of Los Angeles will once again be leading a ride down to the "Happiest Place on Earth", and spending the day inside the park once we get there. As it will be decorated for Halloween, be prepared for a Disney-spooky time, especially at the Haunted Mansion, which always gets a spooky makeover for "their" holiday.
Meet at 9:30am at the Starbucks at the intersection of Culver & Washington, in downtown Culver City.
Ride leaves at 10:30am.
MEET LOCATION SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Check here for all the updates: http://www.vespaclublosangeles.org/calendar.html

SOUTHBAYSCOOTOBERFEST – OCTOBER 20, 2007
Torrance, CA
It’s that time of year to do our annual ride to Oktoberfest at Alpine Village in our backyard of Torrance!!!
Beer, Om-Pa-Pa Bands direct from Germany, Chicken Dancing, Contests, oh, and MORE BEER!!
6pm: We’ll meet at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds)
Ride will leave at 7pm-ish for Alpine Village!
Entrance is usually $5 but it is FREE if you go to this web page, print out the coupon and bring it for admission: http://www.alpinevillage.net/coupon.htm
KNOW YOUR LIMITS! You are all responsible adults (hopefully!) and responsible for your own actions. Don’t drink to excess, don’t make us take away your scooter keys, or worse, scrape you off the ground... Bring a cel phone to call either a friend, loved one, or taxi to pick your ass up if you get too drunk...!
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s MONTHLY RIDE – NOV 3, 2007
Torrance, CA
Same bat channel, same bat time:
Meet at 12:30pm at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish.
Come on out for the longest-running, regular ride in SoCal: the South Bay Scooter Club's Monthly Ride!
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

20th ANNIVERSARY TUCSON-NOGALES RALLY – NOV 9-11, 2007
Tucson, AZ / Nogales, AZ
Come be a part of scooter history and ride in one of the oldest scooter rallies in the South West U.S. The rally begins at the Hotel Congress in historic downtown Tucson. Come down on the 9th starting at 6pm for rally registration, mingling, music, drinks and, of course, scooters. The hotel fills up very quickly, so click on the link below to reserve your room NOW! FYI the hotel does supply secured scooter parking.
Saturday morning, the rally departs from the Hotel Congress for a 125-mile ride through the beautiful scenic landscape of southwestern Arizona. We will have a mid-way stop in the rustic town of Patagonia for gas, drinks and to stretch our legs. From Patagonia, we will continue on through Nogales, Arizona to our legendary, isolated, reserved, group campsite in the Coronado National Forest.
At the Calabasas campsite, we will be greeted by a catered BBQ, multiple kegs of beer, music and a bonfire. Several campsites, firepits, firewood and restroom are available. It can get cold at the campsite, so don't forget tents, sleeping bags and other camping gear.
Sunday, we will awaken from our hangovers for a Mexican breakfast of eggs, potatoes, coffee, chorizo, tortillas and menudo.
For more information: Contact Matthew or Megan Noli @ 520.591.6945 or tucsonrally@hotmail.com
Attention: Any scooter clubs, old or new, that have participated in this historic scooter rally in the past, please contact Matthew in order for your club to receive acknowledgement at this years rally.
For more info: http://www.tucsonscooterrally.com/

6th ANNUAL OAK GLENN APPLE RIDE – NOV 10, 2007
Riverside/Oak Glenn, CA
The Stingers SC in Riverside put on their 6th annual Oak Glen Apple Ride this year. Yeah, we"ve been doing this for six years now, and I know it"s the same weekend as Tucson/Nogales, but what the hell, if you can"t make that one, come out to Riverside for what is always a very cool ride full of twisties and fast roads. This is a vintage & modern friendly ride; it"s always been. The ride is usually about 100 miles round trip, most of which will be under 50mph. There is an elevation climb by the time we reach Oak Glen, so be prepared for a climb before getting to Oak Glen.
Like always, patches are always free.
Friday night:
Meet and greet at the Royal Falconer in Downtown Riverside at 7:00pm, ride leaves around but not exactly at 9:00pm.
4281 Main Street
Riverside, Ca
951-684-4281
Saturday:
Meet up at the parking lot across the corner from the Royal Falconer at 10:30am, ride leaves around but not exactly at 11:30am.
muscleman_coffeemesto@yahoo.com
for info contact: 714-553-3528

“CLASSIC NOT PLASTIC” – NOV 23-24, 2007
Long Beach, CA
The Long Beach Classic Scooter Club , Diablos Scooter Cult & Jackalopes SC have announced their first “Classic Not Plastic” Scooter Rally, scheduled for November 23rd – 24th, 2007. Obviously, this rally will be for Classic/Vintage scooters only.
ITINERARY:
Meet & Greet Friday Nov. 23rd at 8:00 PM @ The Puka Bar 710 W. Willow St. Long Beach, Ca. 90810 DJ's, Rally Packs, & Tropical drinks
Saturday Nov. 24th at 10:00AM Meet up @ Alex's bar 2913 E. Anaheim Long Beach, CA. Ride leaves @ 11:00 for a 1 & 1/2 hour coastal ride. and returns to Alex's for Barbeque, DJ's Scooter show, Raffle...
http://classicnotplastic.homestead.com/index.html

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s RIDE TO THE LONG BEACH MOTORCYCLE SHOW – DECEMBER 8, 2007
Torrance to Long Beach , CA
December's regular SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB'S monthly ride will be postponed from December 1st to December 8th so that we can ride over to the International Motorcycle Show at the Long Beach Convention Center. Piaggio, as always, will have a booth at the show.
Meet at Claim Jumper in Torrance (corner of Crenshaw and Lomita Blvds) at 11am; Ride leaves at 11:30am for the show.
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB’s 7th ANNUAL NEW YEAR RIDE TO THE BEACH – JAN 5, 2008
Torrance, CA
Come out for an annual South Bay tradition: riding our scoots to the beach, taking pictures and sending them to all our relatives shivering in the snow or rain, lol!
First Saturday of every new year!!!
Meet at 12:30pm at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvds); Ride leaves at 1pm-ish.
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com

LAS VEGAS HIGH ROLLERS WEEKEND – FEBRUARY 15-18, 2008
Las Vegas, NV
Put it on your Calendar. More details soon.
AllstonEP@yahoo.com
for info contact: 617-461-3979
http://www.HighRollersWeekend.com

HEDONISM (LAST ONE!!!!!) – APRIL 25-27, 2008
Bakersfield, CA
last call, LAST ONE, THIS IS IT!
More info to come as this will be Hedonisms last year.
for info contact: Brian - 559 709 4791
unforgivensc@comcast.net
for info contact: brian miller 1(559)709-4791
unforgivensc.net
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
SWERVE N CURVE #8
OK, everyone --- HERE IT COMES! One of the now classic scooter rallys of SoCal:
The 8th Annual edition of SWERVE N CURVE!!
Here is the itinerary so far:
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com/sbsc/events/snc8.html
The 8th Annual edition of SWERVE N CURVE!!
Here is the itinerary so far:
FRIDAY, AUGUST 24:
7:30PM: Meet 'n' greet at Hale Hawaii in Torrance.
Early comers can buy rally packs here.9PM: Night time Beach Ride #1; we will take a quick ride along the South Bay beaches, then come back to the original bar where we took off from to hook up with the stragglers and scooterists who were too drunk or too late to ride with us.
If you would like to stay in the area to be able to make the next day’s ride, click here for a list of possible accomodations near the rally.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 25:
11AM: Meet at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance (corner of Crenshaw & Lomita Blvd.'s). Be sure to get your MAPS for the day's ride, which will be handed out here.
(If you're coming from the North: Meet at Cock N Bull Pub, in Santa Monica, CA, at 9:30am; ride leaves at 10:30AM for Claim Jumper's)
12noon: Ride leaves for the famous South Bay Swerve 'N' Curve route around Palos Verdes, then back up towards the Westside.
We will end the ride at Anthony's house in Ladera Hieghts for our famous Swerve N Curve BBQ !!
Evening ride/festivities:
8PM: Meet at the Cock N Bull Pub, in Santa Monica.9PM: Ride leaves for Night time Beach Ride #2 on the Westside (Special "Canals Ride" through Venice and the Marina).
10PM: Arrive at Westside Soul Club, at El Texate in Santa Monica. Address is 316 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405. Special DJ’s playing for your listening pleasure. Free scooter parking all night long; Rally packs will be available for sale.
DJs will be spinning the BEST in SKA, REGGAE & RARE SOUL!
Raffle tickets and rally packs will be available here
If you would like to stay in the area to be able to make the next day’s ride, click here for a list of possible accomodations near the rally.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 26:
11AM: Meet at the Cock N Bull Pub, in Santa Monica. Be sure to get your MAPS for the day's ride, which will be handed out here.
12noon: Ride leaves for cruise along the beaches in the South Bay.
We will end the ride at the PV Bowl in Torrance (1 block south of Claim Jumper on Crenshaw).
Wheelie contest and scooter awards to follow. Raffle???? Afterwards, enjoy a round or two of bowling or kick back in the PV Bowl lounge before heading home...!End of Rally
Itinerary is subject to change, so please keep checking the South Bay & Westside websites.
PLEASE GAS UP BEFORE ALL RIDES!
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com/sbsc/events/snc8.html
Surfing by Scooter
This from "Crave: the Gadget Blog"
Aug 8 2007
Aug 8 2007
Surfing by scooter
(Credit: Engadget)OK, so some Cravers out there weren't exactly sold on the waterproof GPS unit for bikes cited earlier. We can't blame you. But here's an accoutrement for your bi-wheeled lifestyle that we think would be hard to pass up. This Vespa GTS250 has been outfitted with a Wi-Fi-equipped computer purportedly with a touch-screen display and sound system to boot. To top it off, according to Engadget, it even has a Louis Vuitton seat. We would have preferred Gucci, but we're not ones to quibble.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Damn! Italy getting rid of Vespas???
Shoot! Check this out: Italy is trying to get Vespas off the road!!
This kinda sucks. I'm worried that this may start to happen in Schwarzenegger-land, too. All you hippies out there who are so into the enviroment might have it backfire in your face (if you ride a vintage scooter). What pisses me off so bad is that per pound, per capita, per whatever, these gazillions of trucks on the road give off ten to twenty times as much pollution as scooters. But yet, they are allowed to drive without resrictions while they may restrict or outlaw little ol' scooters???? Ridiculous. It's only because these trucks are so vital to the state's / nation's economy that they are not restricted as they should be, before you ever outlaw a little two stroker...
This kinda sucks. I'm worried that this may start to happen in Schwarzenegger-land, too. All you hippies out there who are so into the enviroment might have it backfire in your face (if you ride a vintage scooter). What pisses me off so bad is that per pound, per capita, per whatever, these gazillions of trucks on the road give off ten to twenty times as much pollution as scooters. But yet, they are allowed to drive without resrictions while they may restrict or outlaw little ol' scooters???? Ridiculous. It's only because these trucks are so vital to the state's / nation's economy that they are not restricted as they should be, before you ever outlaw a little two stroker...
Thursday, April 26, 2007
SoCAL SLOW RIDE - May 12th
SO CAL SLOW RIDE #6 – MAY 12, 2007
Torrance, CA
Sponsored by the South Bay Scooter Club
Dust off your old, slow scooter and bring it on out for our 6th Annual SoCal Slow Ride on May 12th, 2007.
This is for slow bikes ONLY. If your scooter can go over 45-50mph, it's too fast!!
Meet at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance, CA, at 12:30pm. Claim Jumper is located at the intersection of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvd.s. Ride leaves at 1:30pm
info@southbayscooterclub.com
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com
Torrance, CA
Sponsored by the South Bay Scooter Club
Dust off your old, slow scooter and bring it on out for our 6th Annual SoCal Slow Ride on May 12th, 2007.
This is for slow bikes ONLY. If your scooter can go over 45-50mph, it's too fast!!
Meet at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance, CA, at 12:30pm. Claim Jumper is located at the intersection of Lomita and Crenshaw Blvd.s. Ride leaves at 1:30pm
info@southbayscooterclub.com
http://www.southbayscooterclub.com
New Pasadena Area Ride - April 28th
NEW PASADENA AREA RIDE – APRIL 28, 2007
Pasadena, CA
This just in from Gena True:
Saturday, April 28, 2007, meet at 11am at Holly Street / Marengo Avenue in front of Pasadena City Hall
(There should be plenty of parking space and a nice shady area with park benches) - I will cover the fees [if any] for the first few parking spaces, that should be enough space, initially
Google map link: http://maps.google.com/?mid=1174793680
Sorry for the last minute post- hopefully someone will be able to attend. My hopes are that this will be the first meet of many. Initially, I'd like to have a 'meet and greet' for 30 minutes or so and then we can discuss our ride options from there (welcome to ideas and other ride leaders). As things start to progress we can make changes and such and let the group form as needed.
This get-together (GTG) is for any and all scooters and their riders- young or old and somewhere in between.
I have never hosted a Scooter event- I have some experience with car shows and such...car clubs...but, I haven't done too much with the Scooter thing- so bare with me. That accompanied with the fact that I have only been in Pasadena, CA for about 6 months or so...
The main idea of this (the first few even) is just to get the word out there, and our presence seen, attract others, and see if we can get a little Pasadena action going--that is open to all types of Scooters.
If you are interested- please reply, email me, or just show up! :) And tell others! :D
My husband and I will be there- two 06 Red Vespa's...and we'll wait a bit and if no one shows- we'll just do our own thing...but, I will keep this up for a while to see if we can get some sort of group forming.
If you are interested or whatever, go ahead and give me some feedback!
Thanks,
Gena
Mrs.Anthony337@gmail.com
Pasadena, CA
This just in from Gena True:
Saturday, April 28, 2007, meet at 11am at Holly Street / Marengo Avenue in front of Pasadena City Hall
(There should be plenty of parking space and a nice shady area with park benches) - I will cover the fees [if any] for the first few parking spaces, that should be enough space, initially
Google map link: http://maps.google.com/?mid=1174793680
Sorry for the last minute post- hopefully someone will be able to attend. My hopes are that this will be the first meet of many. Initially, I'd like to have a 'meet and greet' for 30 minutes or so and then we can discuss our ride options from there (welcome to ideas and other ride leaders). As things start to progress we can make changes and such and let the group form as needed.
This get-together (GTG) is for any and all scooters and their riders- young or old and somewhere in between.
I have never hosted a Scooter event- I have some experience with car shows and such...car clubs...but, I haven't done too much with the Scooter thing- so bare with me. That accompanied with the fact that I have only been in Pasadena, CA for about 6 months or so...
The main idea of this (the first few even) is just to get the word out there, and our presence seen, attract others, and see if we can get a little Pasadena action going--that is open to all types of Scooters.
If you are interested- please reply, email me, or just show up! :) And tell others! :D
My husband and I will be there- two 06 Red Vespa's...and we'll wait a bit and if no one shows- we'll just do our own thing...but, I will keep this up for a while to see if we can get some sort of group forming.
If you are interested or whatever, go ahead and give me some feedback!
Thanks,
Gena
Mrs.Anthony337@gmail.com
LA Weekend Revolution - May 4-6
LA WEEKEND REVOLUTION – MAY 4-6, 2007
Los Angeles, CA
Come and check out the cool music events on Friday and Saturday night, May 4th and 5th. (for more info on these, please visit: http://www.myspace.com/satisfactionclub )
On Sunday, May 6, there will be a multi-club scooter ride on Sunday, May 6th. Choose from 3 different SoCal locations to meet up at and ride.:
Ride up with the SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB: Meet at 10am at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance, 24301 Crenshaw Blvd (cross street Lomita Blvd); Ride leaves at 10:30am
Ride up with the WESTSIDE SCOOTER CLUB: Meet at Cock N Bull Pub in Santa Monica, 2947 Lincoln Blvd (cross street Ashland Ave); Ride leaves at 11:15am.
Ride up with the REFLECTIONS SCOOTER SOCIETY: Meet at Sabor Y Cultura Café in Hollywood, 5625 Hollywood Blvd (cross street Gramercy Pl); Ride leaves at 12noon.
The ride will end up at a free musical event for all So Cal scooterists at Royal Claytons, 1855 Industrial St., Los Angeles, CA 90021 from 1 – 7pm. There will be prizes for the best Lammie and Vespa. International DJs & Full specialty menu. Free for all ages.
http://www.tonythetyger.com/scooterflyer.gif
For more info, contact Marv Mack: info@westsidescootcub.com
Los Angeles, CA
Come and check out the cool music events on Friday and Saturday night, May 4th and 5th. (for more info on these, please visit: http://www.myspace.com/satisfactionclub )
On Sunday, May 6, there will be a multi-club scooter ride on Sunday, May 6th. Choose from 3 different SoCal locations to meet up at and ride.:
Ride up with the SOUTH BAY SCOOTER CLUB: Meet at 10am at Claim Jumper restaurant in Torrance, 24301 Crenshaw Blvd (cross street Lomita Blvd); Ride leaves at 10:30am
Ride up with the WESTSIDE SCOOTER CLUB: Meet at Cock N Bull Pub in Santa Monica, 2947 Lincoln Blvd (cross street Ashland Ave); Ride leaves at 11:15am.
Ride up with the REFLECTIONS SCOOTER SOCIETY: Meet at Sabor Y Cultura Café in Hollywood, 5625 Hollywood Blvd (cross street Gramercy Pl); Ride leaves at 12noon.
The ride will end up at a free musical event for all So Cal scooterists at Royal Claytons, 1855 Industrial St., Los Angeles, CA 90021 from 1 – 7pm. There will be prizes for the best Lammie and Vespa. International DJs & Full specialty menu. Free for all ages.
http://www.tonythetyger.com/scooterflyer.gif
For more info, contact Marv Mack: info@westsidescootcub.com
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