Modern Vespa

That kit looks pretty interesting. And I like the fact that it is a mostly turn-key conversion, which simplifies things a lot!

Specifically, the swing arm is probably the most difficult and critical part of the conversion and their solution is very ingenious. The dual shock mount is a nice touch also, but the shock placement is probably the reason they sprung for a drum brake instead of a disc. At their max speed, a drum is probably sufficient, but a hub motor is really a big magnet, and at higher speeds you'd probably like the additional stopping power of a disc.

Highlights (for me) are the 60v battery and swing arm design. Low lights are the 1000W motor--you'll need a bigger motor if you don't want to over volt and run hotter. Also the 20Ah battery wouldn't afford a lot of range, but being able to remove the battery for charging would allow for commuter usage. All the rest of the kit looks pretty comprehensive to me.

Finally, the problem with this conversion, and frankly my original build, is the max speed. 55kph isn't going to cut it most of the time. I believe it is the reason for the big yawn over the modern Vespa Elettrica, and the reason there aren't more electric scooters in the US. It's probably fine for an inner city commute, but here in Dallas, if you can't go 45mph in a 30mph zone, you're going to get run over!

I have taken apart my scooter and rebuilt it with a 72V battery, 4000W motor, and a host of changes that allow me to "enjoy the go". I've had it to 45mph, but haven't pushed the top end yet. I'm still in data collection mode and when I know more about the capabilities, I'll post again. This electric thing is coming, and someday will be more prevalent. But for now, it's a bit lonely for the electric guys.

Jim,

I think you can easily do this conversion for under $2K, depending on your choice of components. The battery is the most expensive part, and you have many choices on motor controller and hub motor. All these parts come from China, so you have to factor in shipping costs when you make your decisions.

The hardest part, if you don't have to teach yourself some basic electronics, is the swing arm. If you can make it yourself, you'll save some $$$. From your restoration work so far, it looks like you could possess the skills. I did not, and I had my fabricator do some other work as my bike started life as a bodge. You are already at a better starting point.

I've mentioned somewhere in this thread that I had to lie to my wife about how much it would cost to do this project. I think she may be on to me now though. But it is doable if you can do the other conversion work yourself.

I love this scooter as an electric. It is fun to ride, easy to maintain, and never leaves a puddle in the garage. Amongst the gear heads on this site (and there are some amazing technical talent here) you will be in a fringe cult. But like all cults, we are always looking for new members...