Some pretty iconic vehicles have been transformed into LEGO® sets thanks to the Creator Expert and now the LEGO® for Adults theme. Italy has been a great source of inspiration with Ferrari and Fiat both having their wares recreated in brick form. But for the latest vehicle, two wheels have been dropped in favour of a nippy little number, which wouldn’t look out of place weaving through the sun-dappled Italian streets. The Vespa debuted in the late 40s and was the result of the need for affordable transportation and as a result of World War II. It soon became a luxury brand and the iconic scooter found its place in automotive history. But does it make an equally iconic LEGO set? Here’s my review of the recently announced Vespa 125.
Product Details
Dive into a mindful building project packed with style with this LEGO® Vespa 125 model kit for adults. Inspired by the classic 1960s Vespa Piaggio, it comes in pastel blue – a very rare LEGO color that’s sure to appeal to building fans. To celebrate Vespa’s 75th anniversary, the LEGO designers have worked closely with the lifestyle brand to recreate this stunning model in an immersive build, especially for adults.
Beautiful details. Authentic features
Like the original, this buildable model Vespa features a front wheel mounted on one side, 2 seats, a removable engine cover with a brick-built engine beneath, a functioning kickstand, plus working steering. Finishing touches include the Vespa logo, a classic 1960s Italian license plate, a spare wheel, a helmet, plus an accessories basket including a flower bouquet on the back.
- Set Name: LEGO Vespa 125
- Set Number: 10298
- Pieces: 1106
- RRP: £89.99/$99.99/99.99€
- Number of Bags: Bags x 9
- Stickers: Sheet x 1
- Instructions: Booklet x 1
- Availability: LEGO Stores, LEGO Online & General Retail from March 1st
The build is split across 9 bags with a couple of steps having two bags. There’s also a single set of stickers. Within the instructions are a few pages dedicated to the history of the Vespa along with a timeline of different iterations of the scooter. I do like it when a set has stuff like this included, it just offers a little more context to the set.
Unlike other vehicles in the sub-theme, the scale of the Vespa is vastly different. Although the actual set size is similar, it’s much bigger in terms of its scale and so the set does seem a little odd next to other sets. However, there are rumours of a much smaller Vespa coming via the Creator line, which matches the sizing of previous vehicles.
The unique shape of the Vespa is dictated by its frame, which is where the build begins. In order to get its flowing curves, there are plenty of bow elements used but these only go so far as to craft the wasp-like body. The back section of the Vespa, along with the area where you’ll find the seats, are both connected to the frame via a series of hinged plates. This helps to angle them.
One part I really like about the frame of the set is the footwells, where the rider would pop their feet when moving. The use of plates with the little lip creates the perfect surface. Once the frame is complete much of the other details are built independently and added to it. These include the large curved pods which frame the rear wheel. One of these also covers a small recreation of the Vespa’s engine. Although it does have any working elements, it’s nice to have it included. These sections are a great example of providing a smooth surface or the SNOT technique. For this particular set the various stud-less surfaces help to add to the iconic curves of the scooter.
The front steering column is an interesting section of the build, with both good and bad points. Much of it is part of the frame, with a number of different sized curved elements in the new Light Royal Blue. But the front wheel and handlebars are fed through it. This obviously allows it to be turned and if it’s not sitting close to the frame the weight of the wheel and handlebars can cause it to twist fully. This happens when the scooter’s kickstand is deployed and also means the set can stand without it.
The handlebar section is a little wobbly due to how they handle grips are connected but it still looks great, I especially like the use of a crate element, recoloured in the fancy new Light Royal Blue colour. In fact, the use of this fairly new colour works nicely for the set overall. It feels a very 60s colour. It’s only let down by the UK exclusive Fiat 500 released last year, being the same colour. The colour scheme also pairs well with the new wheels. These recreate the white-walled tires found on the early versions of the Vespa.
To give the set a little more character, it features a few accessories. One of the most unique is a spare wheel. Not something you’d expect such a small mode of transportation to have. The Vespa slotted them in various different places but the early models featured them on the back of the steering column. Just nestled in the same space as the rider’s knees. The LEGO version doesn’t actually include a tyre, in fact, it’s a little smaller than the actual wheels used in the set. There’s also a rack on the rear of the scooter. This can hold the included crate, which also has a bunch of flowers in it. There’s also an odd-looking helmet, complete with those classic goggles. It’s difficult to perfectly capture the style of the vintage helmets on such a small scale.
Overall it’s a neat little set, it has good and bad points. But it’s an enjoyable build and a great recreation of an iconic piece of Italian automotive history. With the Vespa celebrating its 75th anniversary, it’s the perfect way to mark the occasion. It’s also one of those sets which will help capture a new fanbase.
Review Round-up
The Vespa is an iconic scooter and a slice of classic Italiana, much like the Fiat 500. The use of Light Royal Blue for the overall colour of the set also ties nicely to the era. It’s just a shame the same colour was used for the super limited version of Fiat 500. Obviously the scale is different and it looks a little odd next to the other ‘Creator Expert’ versions but on it’s own its a cool display piece.
For
+ Excellent use of parts to capture shape
+ Lots of parts in new colour
+ Instructions full of fun factsAgainst
– A little unstable without stand
– Handlebars section a little loose
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This set was provided by the LEGO Group for purposes of review. The thoughts within this review are that of BricksFanz and do not reflect those of the LEGO Group. Providing a set for free does not guarantee a favourable opinion of the set.
