Classic Vespa Motorcycle Restoration Course
Online course of 300 h in restoration of classic Vespa motorcycles. 6 modules with the FIVA Turin Charter, FIVA Technical Code (authenticity) and advanced Excel (parts-breakdown control). Assigned tutor and open enrolment.
Classic Vespa Motorcycle Restoration Course — studying from New Zealand
Vehicle restoration and classic engine work in New Zealand is supported by an active enthusiast community and a well-established network of specialist workshops, particularly around the main centres. Historic vehicle registration and compliance fall under the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, and the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand promotes preservation of historic vehicles. Restoration professionals often combine fabrication, engineering and heritage conservation skills.
Fees for New Zealand: NZ$1,470 (New Zealand dollar), with instalments and employer sponsorship available.
Relevant bodies in New Zealand
Typical roles
Questions from New Zealand
Is restoration engineering recognised by a professional body in New Zealand?
There is no specific statutory register for classic vehicle or heritage restoration engineers in New Zealand. Heritage matters can involve Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, and vehicle roadworthiness is governed by the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi. SEIUM's qualifications are private and not accredited by any national body, so their value depends on the employer or client.
Where do classic restoration specialists work in New Zealand?
Work is found in independent restoration workshops, classic car dealers, museums, and specialist fabrication businesses, many clustered around the main centres. Clients and employers usually judge by workmanship and a portfolio of completed restorations. A private qualification may complement that evidence but is rarely a deciding factor on its own.
Can I study this while running or working in a workshop here?
Yes. The course is fully online and taught in English, so you can study from home in New Zealand without a student visa. Specialist courses total 300 hours, postgraduate diplomas 800 hours and master's programmes 1,900 hours. An assigned technical tutor supports you, and fees can be paid in instalments.
Take the controls.
Run a real engineering trade-off from this field. Move the sliders, watch the model react in real time and beat the challenge.
What you will be able to do
Understand the evolution and models of the Italian monocoque scooter.
Repair the monocoque bodywork and treat corrosion.
Systematically inspect the engine and transmission.
Adjust carburation, exhaust and ignition.
Restore the cycle parts, brakes and electrical installation.
Apply paint and finishes while respecting the authenticity of the model.
Plan a complete restoration project for a monocoque scooter.
Who it's for
- Classic scooter restorer looking to specialise in restoration of classic Vespa motorcycles.
- Italian motorcycle mechanic looking to specialise in restoration of classic Vespa motorcycles.
- Motorcycle panel beater looking to specialise in restoration of classic Vespa motorcycles.
- Period finish painter looking to specialise in restoration of classic Vespa motorcycles.
- Scooter authenticity specialist looking to specialise in restoration of classic Vespa motorcycles.
- Motorcycle workshop manager looking to specialise in restoration of classic Vespa motorcycles.
- Graduates in engineering or science looking to enter classic motorcycle workshops.
What you'll work with
- FIVA Turin Charter
- FIVA Technical Code (authenticity)
- Royal Decree 892/2024 (Historic Vehicles Regulation)
- UNECE Regulation No. 50 (motorcycle lighting)
- UNECE Regulation No. 78 (motorcycle braking)
- ISO 12944 (corrosion protection)
- JASO M345 (2T oils)
6 modules · 300 h
1.1Reference series and models1.2Steel monocoque bodywork1.3Engine and transmission in unit with the rear wheel1.4Frame and engine identification1.5Variants by market and year1.6Documentation, parts diagrams and catalogues1.7Original and reproduction spare parts1.8Typical condition of a surviving unit1.9Valuation and market1.10Workshop: identification and project planning
2.1Critical areas: footboards, covers and wheel arches2.2Monocoque diagnosis2.3Replacement of sheet metal panels2.4Welding thin sheet metal2.5Alignment of leg shield and mudguards2.6Body fillers and their minimal use2.7Stripping and treatment2.8Cavity protection2.9Dimensional and symmetry checks2.10Practice: repair of a typical rust area
3.1Engine block disassembly3.2Cylinder, piston and piston rings3.3Crankshaft, bearings and seals3.4Crankcase sealing3.5Gearbox and shift selector mechanism3.6Clutch and its adjustment3.7Direct drive to the wheel3.8Lubrication and gearbox oil3.9Assembly and running-in3.10Practice: engine block rebuild
4.1Carburettor and jetting4.2Intake and air filter4.3Fuel mixture and oil ratio4.4Original exhaust and its cleaning4.5Flywheel magneto ignition4.6Contact breakers, condenser and coil4.7Electronic ignition and its assessment4.8Ignition timing setting4.9Spark plug reading4.10Practice: carburation and ignition tuning
5.1Trailing-link front fork5.2Shock absorbers and rubber bushes5.3Steering head bearings5.4Drum brakes and their adjustment5.5Detachable wheel rims and tyres5.6Electrical system and its wiring harness5.7Headlamp, tail lamp and horn5.8Speedometer and its cable5.9Hubs and connectors5.10Practice: review of cycle parts and electrics
6.1Original colours and their research6.2Preparation and primer6.3Application and finishing6.4Badges, trim and decals6.5Seat and upholstery6.6Period accessories and their assessment6.7Final assembly and set-up6.8Common workshop errors6.9Documented real cases6.10Final project: documented restoration of a classic scooter
How you'll learn
100 % online training on the SEIUM campus, with downloadable material, recorded classes and an assigned technical tutor. No fixed timetables: students progress at their own pace within the intake, making it compatible with work.
Each module combines theory, guided reading of the original standard and applied exercises. The working software is advanced Excel (parts-breakdown control), Standowin iQ (colour formulation), Fusion 360 (part reproduction), in free, academic or evaluation versions. Tests are studied using real repair procedures for monocoque bodywork, carburation and ignition tuning, and brake and lighting verification. Assessment is continuous per module plus the final integrating project.
Build it end to end
Your final project follows the real engineering workflow, step by step, reviewed by your tutor.
Understand the evolution and models of the Italian monocoque scooter.
Repair the monocoque bodywork and treat corrosion.
Systematically inspect the engine and transmission.
Adjust carburation, exhaust and ignition.
Restore the cycle parts, brakes and electrical installation.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- No prior qualification required.
- Internet connection and a computer capable of running the programme's software.
- A level of Spanish sufficient to follow technical regulatory texts.
Ready to start?
Send your application today. Our admissions team replies within 72 hours with your study plan and funding options.
Frequently asked questions
The programme consists of 300 hours in total, spread over 3 to 5 months. That is between 10 and 15 hours per week on average, compatible with a full-time job.
The course works with advanced Excel (parts-breakdown control), Standowin iQ (colour formulation) and Fusion 360 (part reproduction). Free, academic or evaluation versions are used, and the tutor indicates the free alternative where one exists.
A SEIUM own diploma upon passing the continuous assessment and the integrating project. It is in-house training, not an official Ministry qualification.
Yes. Modules passed in a course or postgraduate diploma in the same area are recognised in the higher programme. Check the recognition policy when you enrol.
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