The two stroke Vespa is rightly regarded as an iconic scooter. It’s initial purpose was to provide low cost transportation to the masses in the 1950s, but it evolved through the vibrant ’60s to became a symbol of the burgeoning youth culture, and on into the ’90s when it became firmly entrenched as an Italian icon. The history of this phenomenon has been well documented, as has the subculture that surrounds it, but there has been no previous attempt to provide a guide to buying one of these classic scooters. This book will help ensure that you avoid the main pitfalls and end up with your very own slice of La Dolce Vita on the driveway.

A fourteen year period from 1974 to 1988 saw the design and creation of a number of modern four cylinder models from Benelli. First there was a 500 Quattro, which in turn spawned the 500LS and went on to be upgraded in 1979 to the 504 Sport.

Benelli went on to expand its range to include models of both higher and lower capacities. They included the 350RS, 354 and 354 Sport models, and on the larger side were the 654T and the 654 Sport. Benelli then surprised the world with their amazing 254 road bike.

As most test reports will confirm the handling and performance is what you would expect from an Italian bike with a pedigree.