The Vespa Cosa is a model of scooter produced by Piaggio under the Vespa brand. It was in production from 1988 to 1993.
The Vespa Cosa was initially to be called the Vespa R (standing for Rinnovata, meaning "renewed"). It was unveiled at the Milan Motorcycle Show in 1987.[1] The Cosa is a direct successor to the Vespa PX series, and although the internal workings are largely similar, it came with newly developed gearbox that was a significant improvement upon the gearbox that had previously been used in the PX series. The PX series was still in production at the time, however, and has continued production even after Cosa production was discontinued. Other improvements upon the PX series included storage space beneath the seat and anti-lock brakes on the front wheel. More controversially, it was also the first Vespa to utilise a significant amount of plastic parts in addition to the traditional monocoque pressed steel frame.
The series is broadly divided into two generations. The first generation was built from 1988 to 1991, while the second generation (sometimes referred to as the Cosa FL) was in production from 1992 onwards. Both version are fundamentally the same, with some minor differences. Firstly, the clutch was modified so that it would be easier to pull in and release. Secondly, minor design alterations were made: the tail light was slightly different and moved to a new position, the seat lock was installed on the side of the saddle, and the saddle was widened for extra comfort.
At the end of the 80s was decided to make the PX line more modern with decidedly more angular shapes. It was thus decided to put into production a new model "Cosa". The instrumentation of this new model is particularly equipped, the engine more powerful, the rear swinging arm is strengthened, and also includes a rev counter. As regards the chassis, the greater space available to put the legs and the possibility of putting the helmet under the saddle compartment should be noted. The "Cosa" maintains the monocoque body but present in several innovations compared to the Vespa PX models: the side hoods are slightly inclined forward for a better aerodynamic effect, the indicators are recessed in the front shield, while the rear light is recessed under the plate. Braking is integral, distributed on both wheels through the use of a hydraulic circuit and a pressure regulator. It is placed on the market with a price of about 3,147,000 italian lire and colours white, red, green, blue and blue.The chassis number VLR1T 3.000.001 - 3.009.413
The "Cosa 2" was presented at the 1991 Milan Motocycles Show. The price was very high, equal to 4,571,000 italian lire. The stylistic interventions of the second series are basically highlighted in the back. The light is moved upwards, immediately behind the saddle which has two offset levels and is equipped with greater padding and two large handles on the sides. Furthermore, the "Cosa 2" is safer especially when braking. In fact, the integral braking system is completed by the EBC device which, via a magnetic sensor, prevents the front wheel from locking.
While the engine is virtually identical to that of the Vespa PX series of the time, there are three major differences in the design:
In addition, the carburetor on the Vespa Cosa came stock fitted with an electronic fuel valve and automatic choke. It also had a digital tachometer (similar to that on later versions of the Vespa T5).
| Cosa 125 | Cosa 150 | Cosa 2001 | Cosa 200 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Years in Production | 1988 – 1998 | ||||
| Chassis Number Prefix | VNR1T | VLR1T | VDR1M | VSR1T | |
| Engine Type | Air-cooled, single-cylinder, two-stroke engine | ||||
| Displacement | 123.4cc | 150cc | 197.97cc | 197.97cc | |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 52.5 x 57.0 | 57.8 x 57.0 | 66.5 x 57.0 | 66.5 x 57.0 | |
| Power in kW (BHP) | 5.88kW (8 BHP) @5800 RPM | 6.25kW (8.5 BHP) @5700 RPM | 7.35kW (10 BHP) @5000 RPM | 8.83kW (12 BHP) @6000 RPM | |
| Maximum Torque (Nm) | 10.5 Nm @4500 RPM | 12.75 Nm @4500 RPM | 14.5 Nm @4500 RPM | ||
| Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.2:1 | 8.8:1 | ||
| Transmission | Four-speed manual, grip shift | ||||
| Top Speed | 88 km/h | 92 km/h | 95 km/h | 100 km/h | |
| Fuel Capacity | 7.7L | ||||
List of films featuring the Vespa CosaFrench kiss