Vespa Largeframe Front Shock Removal & Replacement

One of the weak points of the pre-P series vintage Vespa is the front dampener. The dampeners on these scooters work hard, and over time they fail. Since replacement dampeners are available and relatively cheap, almost nobody repairs a worn one — they are simply replaced. The following is a step-by-step guide to replacing your Vespa front dampener.

Outside of the P series, and the G.S. 160 and S.S. 180, all largeframe Vespas had the same basic front fork and dampener assembly, so these instructions apply to all those bikes. No special tools are needed outside of your normal metric hand tools. This job can be done solo, but it is easier with two people.

Follow the arrows to take you through the guide step by step.

1. It is always a good idea to clean and prepare the area you are working in, as well as the scooter. Lift the front end so you can access the wheel and fork assembly — this can be done by placing a piece of wood under the centerstand.

2. Remove the front wheel. Then remove the triangular-shaped aluminum hub cover, held in place by four tabs. Bend the tabs up and pull off the cover. If it is difficult, a few gentle taps with a hammer and drift from the hub side should do it — work in a cross pattern so the cover is not wedged against the hub arm.