Modern Vespa

Forgive the very basic question....

I recently acquired a 1974 US Primavera 125 and have been tinkering with it and setting things right. I noticed when I test drove it that the brake light was not coming on with the brakes, and fixed this for the front brake by replacing the switch. I noted that the brake light still did not come on for the rear brake.

So this weekend I got down under the scoot to see what I could see and... I don't see a brake switch for the rear brake down there. I don't even see a spot where one could go. Am I blind, or did this model of scooter only light up the brake light with the front brake?

The switch is mounted to the brake pedal assembly inside the frame.

My mind is blown. How do you access it... by removing the pedal?

Yup and it can be a challenge. You must remove the rubber pedal pad, 3 bolts and kind of wiggle/screw/force it out your first time through. Prepare to curse a lot. Be careful not to damage the wires attached.

Probably more cursing when you go to put it back in too.

Good luck!

I've have the same problem. Is it easy to cause damage? I'm mechanically declined.

If your frame is rusty, I could see the wires cutting right through it. Or at least bending the frame. Otherwise, go slow and don't force anything.

I'd disconnect the brake cable at the rear wheel. It will give you more to work with. Then, if I remember correctly, you want to compress the pedal to get the lowest profile internally.

The worst is getting that one backwards bolt back in. At least for me it is. It threads into a captive nut. So make sure the brake cable is clamped down before reassembly.

I think there is a spring inside too, isn't there? If I were in there, I'd replace that spring too just because. YMMV.