1959 Vespa 150 TAP Specifications

Name: 1959 Vespa 150 TAP
Brand: Vespa

Scooter • Specs last verified 13 July 2026

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1959 Vespa 150 TAP Overview

The 1959 Vespa 150 TAP is a scooter motorcycle built around 145.5 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Two strike, single cylinder engine. 1959 Vespa 150 TAP delivers. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 60 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 1959 150 TAP tips the scales at 115 kg. Scroll down for the complete 1959 Vespa 150 TAP spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

1959 Vespa 150 TAP compared with other bikes in the Scooter category

Here is how the 1959 Vespa 150 TAP stacks up against other bikes in the Scooter category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 1110 models.

Top speed of 60 km/h is lower than that of 330 of the other 368 bikes in the Scooter category.
Only 498 of the other 1109 bikes in the Scooter category have a larger engine displacement than the 146 cc of the 150 TAP.

1959 150 TAP - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Factory engineering: The 1959 Vespa 150 TAP represents Vespa's engineering at the time, with a specification built around real-world usability.

Considerations

Drum rear brake: The drum rear brake is adequate but lacks the modulation and fade resistance of a disc setup found on more modern equivalents.

Wear Points & Servicing Notes

Heat management in traffic

150 TAP's air-cooled design means engine-bay temperatures build up more in stop-start traffic than on a liquid-cooled equivalent - a function of the cooling method itself, not a defect. Mesh riding gear and avoiding prolonged idling help in hot climates.

Suspension condition on used examples

Up front, the 150 TAP runs Helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber and Helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.

Frame & chassis check

The frame is Pressed sheet steel, streamlined monocoque structure - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.

Low-speed handling

At just 115 kg, the 150 TAP is light enough to manhandle easily at a standstill - one of the practical advantages of its class.

150 TAP - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 1959 Vespa 150 TAP with its 145.5 cc scooter, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. Now 67 years old, this scooter is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained 150 TAP should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.

Oil and filter changes

Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task for the 150 TAP's 145.5 cc two strike, single cylinder. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.

1959 Vespa 150 TAP - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 1959 Vespa 150 TAP have?

The 1959 Vespa 150 TAP uses a Two strike, single cylinder engine with 145.5 cc of displacement. It is air cooled, forced.

What is the top speed of the 1959 Vespa 150 TAP?

The 1959 Vespa 150 TAP has a factory-quoted top speed of 60 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.

How much does the 1959 Vespa 150 TAP weigh?

The 1959 Vespa 150 TAP weighs 115 kg. This is the manufacturer's dry figure.

What brakes does the 1959 Vespa 150 TAP have?

The 1959 Vespa 150 TAP uses drum, expanding type at the front and drum, expanding type at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 1959 Vespa 150 TAP use?

The 1959 Vespa 150 TAP runs 3.5 x 8" front and 3.5 x 8" rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.

What suspension does the 1959 Vespa 150 TAP have?

The 1959 Vespa 150 TAP uses Helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber up front and Helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber at the rear.

What frame does the 1959 Vespa 150 TAP use?

The 1959 Vespa 150 TAP is built around a Pressed sheet steel, streamlined monocoque structure frame.

Key Specifications

Engine

Two strike, single cylinder

Power

Not recorded

Torque

Not recorded

Top Speed

60 km/h / 37mph

Weight

115 kg / 253 lbs

Fuel Capacity

Not recorded

Full 1959 Vespa 150 TAP Specifications

Year 1956 and 1959

Make Model Vespa 150 TAP

Total Produced 500 units

Dry Weight 115 kg / 253 lbs

Top Speed 60 km/h / 37mph

Displacement 145.5 cc / 8.8 cub in

Engine Detail Two strike, single cylinder

Bore x Stroke 58.5 x 54 mm

Cooling System Air cooled, forced

Fuel Mixture 1:20

Ignition 6 pole flywheel magneto

Starter Kick start

Battery Capacity 6V

Clutch Wet, multiplate with cork inserts

Final Drive Direct drive

Frame Type Pressed sheet steel, streamlined monocoque structure

Suspension - Front Helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber

Suspension - Rear Helicoidal spring and hydraulic shock absorber

Brakes - Front Drum, expanding type

Brakes - Rear Drum, expanding type

Tyres - Front 3.5 x 8"

Tyres - Rear 3.5 x 8"

Wheels Interchangeable

Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis. Spot an error? Let us know.