The Untouchable: A Review of the Classic Vespa 90 Super Sprint
In the vast and storied history of Vespa, few models have achieved the legendary status of the Vespa 90 Super Sprint. Produced for a short period from 1965 to 1971, this small-frame scooter was a radical departure from the norm. It wasn't designed for the masses; it was built for the discerning rider who craved speed, agility, and a look that was utterly unique. With its racing-inspired features and extremely limited production run, the 90 Super Sprint—or 90 SS as it is famously known—has become one of the most sought-after and valuable collector's items in the world of classic scooters. It is a true icon of exclusivity and daring design.
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| The Untouchable: A Review of the Classic Vespa 90 Super Sprint |
A Racing Design for the Street: Design and Aesthetics
The design of the Vespa 90 Super Sprint is a masterpiece of functional minimalism. It takes the small-frame chassis and transforms it into a machine that looks ready for the track. The most distinctive and instantly recognizable features are located on the central tunnel: a dummy fuel tank and a sideways-mounted spare wheel that sits atop it. While the tank was purely for aesthetics, this setup was inspired by racing scooters of the time, where a low center of gravity was key. It gave the scooter an aggressive, low-slung stance and a look that has never been replicated.
The overall bodywork is streamlined and simple, featuring a narrow leg shield and a short wheelbase that accentuates its compact size. The low-set handlebars and sporty single seat complete the racing-inspired ergonomics. The 90 SS was a scooter that was designed to be ridden fast and looked like it, too. It was a bold statement of style and performance, a design that was both elegant and unapologetically rebellious.
The Small Engine with a Big Heart: Performance and Ride
At the heart of the 90 SS is a potent little 90cc two-stroke engine. While its displacement may sound small, its power-to-weight ratio made it a true pocket rocket. The engine, paired with a snappy four-speed manual gearbox operated via the left handlebar, provided a surprising amount of pep. The ride was exhilarating—the lightweight scooter accelerated briskly and could reach a top speed of over 90 km/h, which was blistering for a machine of its size in the mid-1960s.
Riding the 90 SS is a visceral and engaging experience. The manual gears and two-stroke sound create a connection between rider and machine that is a hallmark of classic Vespas. The scooter is incredibly nimble and agile, thanks to its short wheelbase and light weight. It corners with confidence and zips through city traffic with ease. Its ride is firm and sporty, designed for a more dynamic riding experience than a typical scooter.
A Collector's Dream: Handling and The Ownership Experience
Owning a Vespa 90 Super Sprint today is a privilege. Due to its very limited production—with some sources claiming as few as 5,000 units made—it is one of the rarest scooters in the world. This rarity makes it a challenging and costly machine to maintain and restore. Finding original parts is a monumental task, and the scooter's value as a collector's item means that most are now kept as museum pieces or are only ridden on special occasions.
The 90 SS is not a scooter for the casual rider. It is a vehicle for the dedicated enthusiast who understands its historical significance and is committed to its preservation. Its unique design and rarity make it a constant conversation starter and a source of immense pride for its owner. It is a machine that represents the peak of a collector's passion.
A Lasting Legacy: An Icon of Exclusivity
The legacy of the Vespa 90 Super Sprint is defined by its exclusivity and its bold, innovative design. It was a scooter that dared to be different, combining the fun and accessibility of a small-frame Vespa with a racing attitude and a unique style. It proved that a scooter could be a performance machine and a work of art at the same time. The 90 SS is not just a beloved classic; it's a testament to Piaggio's willingness to experiment and a symbol of a golden age of scooter design.
It is a scooter that holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts, a true icon that represents the ultimate in scooter design and rarity. The Vespa 90 Super Sprint is the unattainable dream for many, and a treasured piece of history for the lucky few who are able to call one their own.
