1950 - VESPA MONTLHERY
To promote the sporty image of Vespa, Piaggio shifted the focus towards breaking new records. On April 7th, 1950, at the French circuit of Montlhery, during 10 hours of testing with three drivers alternating riding, Vespa won the world record for the 100 mile race (average speed 129.7 km/h), 500 mile race (average speed 123.9 km/h), and the 1,000 km race (average speed 124.3 km/h).
During the 10 hours the Vespas covered 1,049 kilometers (652 miles). With a very similar vehicle to the 1949 Vespa 125 "circuit" with alloy frame, Mazzoncini achieved brilliant results in circuit racing, with a victory in the scooter class at the Circuit of Genoa, holding off the challenging Lambretta.