As is so often the case in life, there are also things in our Vespas that are not absolutely necessary for proper use, but nevertheless have a positive effect. There are various ways to benefit from additives. For example, additives can be used in the coolant, in the oil or in the gear oil, depending on the application. However, as these uses are very specific, we will focus on the most common case: fuel additives.
Three variants in fuel
When it comes to additives in fuel, we roughly differentiate between three different variants in our Vespa systems: Cleaning additives, combustion improvers and lubrication additives. However, the latter are not discussed below, as they are rarely used.
The newer Vespas in particular are very economical due to the ultra-modern and optimally tuned injection systems. However, this economy can very quickly come to an end if these nozzles become dirty or clogged. Special additives clean the injection nozzles and the injection system of deposits that can form during the combustion process. This improves the fuel flow and combustion efficiency, resulting in better performance and lower fuel consumption.
Such additives should be added at least at every oil change. It would be even better if Vespa riders added such an additive every few tank fillings according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Prevent carburetor problems regularly!
The situation is completely different with older Vespa models that are still equipped with a conventional carburetor under the seat. Revving up, false air, a mixture that is too lean or too rich – all problems that are related to the carburetor. Basically, there are only a few ways to clean the carburetor as a first step. The ideal solution would be to remove the carburetor and clean it in an ultrasonic bath. Instead, however, there is a simpler and no less effective solution.
A carburetor cleaner removes deposits and impurities in the carburetor that impair performance and thus restores the optimum air-fuel mixture, resulting in smoother combustion and better engine running. Regular use is also recommended here to prevent performance problems.
A fuel booster for Vespas
Everyone is probably familiar with the octane numbers at filling stations. The best-known fuel is Super 95, where the number 95 means that it has a minimum octane rating of 95. It is blended with up to 5% ethanol. Super 98, on the other hand, has a higher octane rating and is also regularly available at larger filling stations. But it is not only at the filling station that you can influence the octane rating, there are also ways to improve it afterwards.
So-called octane boosters increase the octane number of the fuel, which reduces the tendency to knock. These additives enable more efficient combustion and can improve engine performance, especially in high-performance or tuned engines.
A perfect combination of the above additives is available from the Vespa experts at SIP Scootershop with the addition of Motul “Boost and Clean Scooter“. As the name suggests, this additive combines both systems and serves both to clean the injection systems and to increase the octane rating.
In conclusion, the same applies here: Not only Vespisti themselves should treat themselves from time to time, our Vespa also deserves something special from time to time. Whether it’s cleaning by hand or adding additives. The goal is always the same: A reliable and ideally functioning Vespa for the next ride.
