The last Vespa PX200 was produced by Piaggio back in 2002, EU regulations outlawing this humble commuter scooter from then on. While spare parts were produced by Piaggio for a few year afterwards – and some still are today – as any Vespa enthusiast knows, the quality of these is not always that good. If they are available at all of course.
Luckily for us all however, Italian tuning house Pinasco have come to the rescue and followed rival tuning concern Malossi in producing some replacement engine casings for the large frame Vespa range.
The Pinasco engine casings are made from die-cast aluminium and there are both PX125/150 and PX200 versions produced. Apart from their apparently quality finish, they also feature a number of special features which will be of particular interest to those keen to make their Vespas go faster.
There are larger gasket surfaces at the base of the cylinder and the carburetor inlet (ideal for porting work), and they are also designed to take a stronger roller bearing for the crankshaft on the flywheel side rather than a needle.
For each engine there are both rotary induction versions (as per standard) and also a version that accommodates a reed valve too, for extra tuning ability.
We understand that internals from all ages of the P-range engine can be fitted, although PX200 cranks must be used in both the 125/150 and 200 engines.
Supplied with engine mounts and various studs and gaskets (with the reed valve and manifold included with that particular engine), these Pinasco casings can be found at various German scooter shops with prices starting at around €550.
Check out Scooter & Service, Scooter Center or LTH as a starting point for more details.