Hi Vespisti
I'd like to add 10'' Rims to my 1972 50 R since there is more choice in tyres for that size and it is said it rides more comfortable. In another post it is also mentioned that the available speedometers only work correctly with 10'' rims.
Now that's all very nice, but I'd like to know how it will affect acceleration and maybe top speed on an otherwise stock scooter.
Thanks in advance.
florijnisfijn,
i've always read and been told that a taller rim/tire will give you slower acceleration and a higher top speed. how much of an effect it will have on your scooter will depend on how much of a difference there is between your 9" rim/tire and the 10" rim/tire you install. not all 10" tires are the same... so it might not be that much taller then your 9" set up. as for speedos... again 10" tires vary, so the only way to get a more accurate reading is to use a gps or radar gun that has been calibrated. hope that helps. maybe someone with experience with your specific model could chime in... i just figured i would tell you what i know and have read - but i don't have any experience with a 50 R.
Hi! From from 9'' to 10'' it is like putting a longer gearing, the difference is obout the same from 16/68 to 18/67, this is why the vespa 50 special with 10" wheels had 16/68 while the oldest vespas 50 with 9" wheels had 18/67... If you have the original 50cc then you'll lose a lot of acceleration and will have troubles riding up slopes and to fully "stretch" the fourth gear...not reccomended at all! If you have a 75cc or more then it is all right: simply by putting the 10" wheels you'll have the right gearing, increasing top speed of about 10km/h or more, of course you'll lose a bit of acceleration but nothing that can bother you. Cheers. Oscar