Vespa VBA/VBB 150CC (1958-67) VNA/VNB 125CC (1957-66).
The VBA/VBB Vespa model get its name from the prefixes of their VIN numbers. The VBA/VBB were the successor to the handlebar “widebody” Vespa. The VBA/VBB was the 150cc models and VNA/VNB was the prefix for the 125cc models. The “A” were the first ones produced, and were then followed by the “B” models when the rearof the frame was flattened out, in following the handlebar vespas.
These scooters had completely new body and motor desing which was the basis for almost all following largeframe vespas. The motor was rotary inducted desing which increased reliabiliti, fuel consumption. And decreased oil consumption as compared with the piston ported handlebar motor. The carburetor was relocated from under the seat to the top of the motor case. The chassis was narrowed a bit and restyled to match. And enclosed headset now replaced the open handlebars on all models, while on the other hand, the eight inch wheel set up of the older models were retained.
The VBB replaced the VBA in 1960 and introduced a much needed four speed gearbox to the smallers scooters. Four gears had previously been reserved only for the top of the line gran sport. Furthermore, VBB had aluminium trim on the cowls and a flat section under the taillight to affix a license plate.
All of these scooters were styled and engineered well, and the VBB/VBA are as beautifull and classic desing as the G.S. 150.