Modern Vespa

Me got a few of those kicking around

Here is work for long winter days.
I finally collected all parts to convert my mk.I front brakes to EFL one.
Another problem is that new F.A. 16mm axle what was mounted years ago have incorrect diameter of bearings seatings so there is noticeable play even with new bearings(I tried two sets). I also read few reports that it is common problem with this axles. So finally there will be nice front brakes for the next riding season. And maybe base for the disc brake in the future, who knows. I already have used LML calliper carrier on the shelf.

Due to I have PK brake plate I ordered PK front hub and bearing kit for swing arm.

The fork is from LML Star 200.
And the swing arm is from another LML Star 200 - last autumn I had one in my garage to change fork after some collision.
Almost new scooter, only 400 km on the odo. Here how it looks when I got it, with Honda Giorno mudguard and shortened wheelbase.


Just received all from the sandblasting and powder coating.


P.S.
Thank you SaFiS for the info about hubs and brake plates.

Finally I've done conversion to T5 rear brake cable. Parts was on the shelf for almost two years
Except all other advantages it is useful for my P with very worn rear brake drum - every time for remove it I need to disconnect cable from the cam.

Finally I had time to change fork and front brake. 8 hours in first day and 2 hours next day.
To be correct it is mix of parts:
- LML fork
- LML swing arm
- Original PK brake plate with brake cam
- F.A. PK hub.

All fits together without any hassle. The worst part was to make proper hole for steering lock.
Maybe front wheel now is bit off centre, but it is hard to measure and I can't feel it while riding. What is more noticeable it is that mudguard now is not prefect straight, but I can live with it.

And, OFC, brake is beautiful! Even with new hub and used pads. Yes, far from disk brake, but day and night comparing to the old one.
THERE IS NO THAT F*****G play on the axle in front end! Yes - I'm feel that now front end is heavier, but not a problem for me.

Those brake adjusters are pretty slick. Vespa drum brakes are really not so bad. They go better when you can adjust them easily. New pads especially have to bed in. Once they wear to the drums they are a lot better.

mk.I front brakes with 16mm axle is shitty by itself.
I'd done all - new SIP stainless steel cable and PTFE outer, new shoes(Newfren anti-aqua or SIP black), new brake cam, also new lever perfectly shimmed.
All super-clean and greased where it needs. There is no good front brake.
I need to push lever with all fingers and with so force that I'm was in doubt what will happens first - it start to brake proper or the cable will just break.
This "new" brakes with self-centering shoes, 20mm axle is absolutely night and day comparing to 16mm. Same as on PK 125 XL(or PK50XL for german market, for example).
Absolutely powerful and I can operate it with 1-2 fingers.

One of the most important upgrades of my 2026 Vespa season: I finally put a Vape Road on my P.
After the second CDI started misfiring at 5000-5500 rpms, I decided that enough was enough.

I'm very happy with it: runs much smoother and revs up clearer.





This was a nice gift for my P and me - we crossed the 25 000 km mark this August