Sexy, suave, and perennially hip, Vespa motor scooters have emerged from the streets of post-World-War Italy to become one of the most recognizable brands on Earth.

First launched in 1946 as a frugal transportation alternative for war-weary Italians, the Vespa motor scooter has since become the epitome of Euro-chic. Vespas were a mainstay of ever-so-cool Italian art films and the vehicle of choice of the swinging Scooter Boys in Carnaby Street-era London. Imagine someone riding one of those sleek Italian motor scooters and what do you see? Some young, edgy, swinging single in tight leather pants? Well, today's Vespa owners may not be so hip or with it, but Americans of all sorts, from opticians to business professionals, are getting into the pure enjoyment of riding Vespa scooters.