Douglas Vespa 2L2 Scooter

Based in Bristol, Douglas began making motorcycles in 1907 and are best known for their range of traditional flat twins.

However in post-war austerity Britain they got into financial difficulties and, in a moment of enlightenment, spotted the scooter market as an area of sales potential. Discussions with Piaggio ended with an agreement to make their Vespa Scooter under licence, the official launch taking place in March 1951.

The monocoque frame followed car practice and was stiff and light. A compact 125cc two-stroke single combined with 3-speed gearbox was mounted low down at the rear and neatly cowled in. The faired-in front end offered some protection from the elements and these lively little machines had a fair turn of speed. The only real differences between an Italian and a Bristol-built machine were the positioning of the headlamp to comply with local lighting regulations and the fitment of some locally sourced ancillaries.

This splendidly original example was last taxed in 1980 and is presented in blue instead of the standard green. Registered in June 1951 by Fox and Co, Burlington Gardens, London, it is a very early example and, according to the original invoice, was ordered with a licence holder and number plates at an additional cost of 17s 6d, whilst the spare wheel and auxiliary petrol tank added a further £10 1s 6d. The original bill of sale accompanies the bike showing the total as £140 10s 8d including insurance and two months' road tax.

This lovely early scooter looks to be a straightforward restoration project. Prospective bidders are advised that there is no paperwork with this machine.