Fresh on the Canadian market, the 150-cc Stella 4T is an improved replica of the Vespa PX90. This review proves that it is indeed possible to successfully combine past and present with finesse.

This one slots into my “urban” category, as it does equally well on Montreal’s Boulevard Métropolitan as it does in the streets of the Plateau. Though it boasts a rich heritage, the Stella still needs some serious getting used to, especially with its 4-speed transmission and foot brake.

The 150-cc Stella 4T is an improved replica of the Vespa PX90. (Photo: Amyot Bachand/Auto123.com)

New and improved
At first glance, you’d swear you’re looking at a Vespa. It’s all there: steel unibody, elongated seat, bulging side covers, central headlamp and mirrors perched at the end of chrome rods. But instead of Vespa, its reads Genuine and Stella. The five available colours nicely complement the classic lines of the scooter, deftly accentuating its retro flair.

In the image of the Vespas of old, the Stella cleverly integrates the battery into the middle of the left side cover. The off-centre engine is accessible on the other side, simplifying maintenance. The side covers can also be easily removed by hand, once you’ve unlocked them via latches under the seat.

Where’s the storage?
Compared to modern scooters, the Stella offers virtually no storage options, other than a glove box on the front fairing, thankfully roomy and with a locking mechanism. You’ll have to turn towards accessories to compensate – but there’s a veritable plethora to choose from.

Shop talk
The Stella is mobilized by a 147.6-cc, air-cooled 4-stroke producing about 8 hp, coupled with a 4-speed transmission. The clutch is controlled via the left grip; the Stella features both an electronic ignition and a kick-starter, which is a godsend, albeit a temperamental one, when the battery is dead. Cold starting requires the help of the choke located in front of the saddle, under the fuel reserve tab.

A nostalgic touch, to be sure, but it doesn’t complicate things. The fuel tank can hold 5.5 litres, including a 1-litre reserve that comes in handy when you forget to fill up on gas.

The front suspension consists of a dual-action Gabriel shock and coilover spring. There’s also a dual-action shock in back. As for brakes, you’ll find a disc in front and a drum in back, the latter activated by a pedal on the floor. The 10-inch tires are spruced up with white walls.

The Stella is mobilized by a 147.6-cc, air-cooled 4-stroke producing about 8 hp, coupled with a 4-speed transmission. (Photo: Genuine)