Vespa GS160 and SS180 scooters - information, models and suitable spare parts
The Vespa GS160 and the Vespa 180 Super Sport are among the most important sports scooters of the classic large-frame era. With their newly designed engines, reinforced housings and elegant, slimmer bodywork, they marked a turning point in Piaggio's technical development. The GS160 brought real long-distance capability to the sports series for the first time, while the SS180 with its larger displacement, more angular design and independent character heralded the transition to the later Rally. To this day, the GS and SS are among the most iconic and sought-after Vespa models of all.
Vespa GS160 and SS180 - sporty classics with independent technology
Model overview, technology and parts supply in the Scooter Center
The Vespa GS160 was the modern further development of the legendary GS150 in 1962 and brought the large-frame design fully into the sports model series for the first time. Its engine was fitted with larger bearings, reinforced crankshaft areas and a powerful exhaust system with clearance for the rear wheel. The characteristic ventilation slots in the cheek, the slim design and the unique rear compartment of the first series still characterize the model today.
The SS180 appeared in 1964 as the direct successor to the GS160. With 181 cc, ten hp and a significantly more angular design - including a narrower leg shield, GL steering head with trapezoidal headlight and revised frame contour - it was the sporty highlight of the classic Vespa era. Although it was hardly ever officially marketed in Germany, numerous approved vehicles still exist thanks to the ABE documents applied for. Both models use independent engines that differ in many details from later Largeframe series.
The Scooter Center offers precisely matching components for the engine, gearbox, ignition, carburettor, brakes, electrics and bodywork - suitable for both faithful restorations and technical overhauls.
Special technical features of the GS160 and SS180
The GS160 introduced numerous design innovations: a reinforced engine housing, a robust valve train, a significantly larger displacement and a completely redesigned rear end, which even integrated a small storage compartment in the first series. The suspension, seat and damper layout were also improved compared to the 150 GS, taking the GS160 to a new level of comfort and performance.
The SS180 adopted many of these improvements, but took a consistently sporty approach. The more angular design, the more powerful engine and the modified frame gave it significantly more dynamic handling. As the link between the GS160 and the later 180 Rally, it is one of the most technically exciting models in Piaggio history and is one of the most sought-after collector's vehicles today.
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