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Complete 130cc Tuning Kit for Your Piaggio Ape!
Converting a Piaggio Ape 50 to 130cc is not easy. You have to replace the crankshaft and the gearing. This means the engine must be opened up! For the conversion to 130 cc, we use Vespa 125 parts. Some custom modifications may be required.
Build your ideal conversion kit yourself. From high-quality cylinder kits to the right tools and the correct main jet, you will find all the components you need for a successful engine upgrade here.
What do you need for a successful 130cc conversion?
1. A larger cylinder
Opt for a high-quality cylinder kit from a brand such as Polini, DR Racing, or Pinasco to achieve the best and most reliable results. Please note that this type of cylinder requires a long-stroke crankshaft, as well as stud bolts extending from the crankcase to the cylinder head. You cannot install a 130cc cylinder on a standard engine block.
2. A performance exhaust
A performance exhaust is designed to match the engine's modified characteristics and can improve power output. The right exhaust helps remove exhaust gases more efficiently, allowing the cylinder to perform at its best.
3. A Large carburetor
For displacements of 130 cc and up, we recommend installing a larger carburetor. This ensures the larger cylinder receives sufficient air and fuel for optimal performance. A 19 mm carburetor allows the engine to produce more power and provides better fuel delivery. For the absolute best results, use a PHBL 24 carburetor; this works most effectively in combination with enlarged transfer ports and a reed-valve intake manifold.
4. A larger main jet
A larger cylinder changes the engine's fuel requirements. Installing the correct—typically larger—main jet ensures the engine receives sufficient fuel. For the 19mm SHBC carburetor, use M5 main jets; for the PHBL 24, use M6 main jets.
Please note! If you choose the Polini CP carburetor, do not order M5 or M6 main jets. The Polini CP carburetor uses KEIHIN PWK jets.
5. A colder spark plug
A spark plug with a colder heat range can help prevent overheating when the engine is subjected to increased loads.
6. A reinforced clutch
A tuned engine places greater demands on the clutch. As a result, the original clutch with three friction plates may wear out more quickly. A reinforced clutch is therefore recommended.
Pay close attention to the engine type when ordering:
Older models: Engine codes TL1M and TL2M, models TL1T to TL4T, with a single central pressure spring.
Newer models: Engine code TL3M and the C80 series, models TL5T, TL6T, ZAPC80 and ZAPC81, with six pressure springs.
Always check compatibility with your specific engine before ordering a clutch.
7. Modified primary gearing
With modified primary gearing, you can better match the speed and engine RPM to the increased engine power. Taller gearing can provide a higher top speed at the same engine RPM.
8. A Long-Stroke Crankshaft
To install a 130 cc cylinder kit, a crankshaft with a 51 mm stroke is required. The longer stroke, combined with the cylinder bore, results in a greater engine displacement.
Please note: Most Piaggio Ape 50 models have a 20 mm flywheel-side crankshaft taper. Older versions, including many 6V models with a pull-start mechanism, generally have a smaller 19 mm taper. This may apply to models such as the TL1T, TL2T and TL3T (Prima Serie).
Before purchasing, always check the taper size of the existing crankshaft and make sure the new crankshaft is compatible with your engine model.
9. Bearings and Oil Seals
When replacing the crankshaft, it is advisable to replace the bearings and oil seals as well. The oil seals are essential for preventing air leaks that can cause engine problems.
The small-end needle bearing for the piston pin is also larger than the original one, measuring 15 × 19 × 20 mm. This needle bearing is often supplied with the crankshaft.
10. An Extended Intake Manifold
Due to the larger cylinder kit, the carburettor no longer fits in its original position. An extended intake manifold allows the carburettor to be mounted slightly further back.
For optimal tuning, it is also possible to install a Polini reed valve intake manifold. This can be combined with enlarging the transfer ports and modifying the intake port by removing material.
11. Vespa 125 Primavera Cooling Shroud
Unfortunately, there are no cooling shrouds available on the market specifically designed for the Piaggio Ape 50 with a 130 cc cylinder kit. The most suitable option is the Vespa 125 Primavera cooling shroud.
Please note: Custom modifications are required to ensure a proper fit.
12. Air filter
For increased airflow, use a performance air filter! Please note: SHBC carburetors feature the original-style connection, whereas PHBL and Polini carburetors do not. Make sure to choose the correct one!
13. The correct installation tools
Specialist tools are required for proper installation, including:
Flywheel puller: To safely remove the flywheel and gain better access to the cylinder kit.
Clutch puller: To remove the clutch.
Clutch repair tools: To correctly disassemble, modify and reassemble the clutch.
Build your ideal conversion kit
With the right components and suitable tools, you can prepare your Piaggio Ape for a powerful 85cc configuration. Choose parts that suit your engine type and intended use, and pay careful attention to carburettor tuning, ignition timing and gearing.
Ask us your question
Complete 130cc Tuning Kit for Your Piaggio Ape!
Converting a Piaggio Ape 50 to 130cc is not easy. You have to replace the crankshaft and the gearing. This means the engine must be opened up! For the conversion to 130 cc, we use Vespa 125 parts. Some custom modifications may be required.
Build your ideal conversion kit yourself. From high-quality cylinder kits to the right tools and the correct main jet, you will find all the components you need for a successful engine upgrade here.
What do you need for a successful 130cc conversion?
1. A larger cylinder
Opt for a high-quality cylinder kit from a brand such as Polini, DR Racing, or Pinasco to achieve the best and most reliable results. Please note that this type of cylinder requires a long-stroke crankshaft, as well as stud bolts extending from the crankcase to the cylinder head. You cannot install a 130cc cylinder on a standard engine block.
2. A performance exhaust
A performance exhaust is designed to match the engine's modified characteristics and can improve power output. The right exhaust helps remove exhaust gases more efficiently, allowing the cylinder to perform at its best.
3. A Large carburetor
For displacements of 130 cc and up, we recommend installing a larger carburetor. This ensures the larger cylinder receives sufficient air and fuel for optimal performance. A 19 mm carburetor allows the engine to produce more power and provides better fuel delivery. For the absolute best results, use a PHBL 24 carburetor; this works most effectively in combination with enlarged transfer ports and a reed-valve intake manifold.
4. A larger main jet
A larger cylinder changes the engine's fuel requirements. Installing the correct—typically larger—main jet ensures the engine receives sufficient fuel. For the 19mm SHBC carburetor, use M5 main jets; for the PHBL 24, use M6 main jets.
Please note! If you choose the Polini CP carburetor, do not order M5 or M6 main jets. The Polini CP carburetor uses KEIHIN PWK jets.
5. A colder spark plug
A spark plug with a colder heat range can help prevent overheating when the engine is subjected to increased loads.
6. A reinforced clutch
A tuned engine places greater demands on the clutch. As a result, the original clutch with three friction plates may wear out more quickly. A reinforced clutch is therefore recommended.
Pay close attention to the engine type when ordering:
Older models: Engine codes TL1M and TL2M, models TL1T to TL4T, with a single central pressure spring.
Newer models: Engine code TL3M and the C80 series, models TL5T, TL6T, ZAPC80 and ZAPC81, with six pressure springs.
Always check compatibility with your specific engine before ordering a clutch.
7. Modified primary gearing
With modified primary gearing, you can better match the speed and engine RPM to the increased engine power. Taller gearing can provide a higher top speed at the same engine RPM.
8. A Long-Stroke Crankshaft
To install a 130 cc cylinder kit, a crankshaft with a 51 mm stroke is required. The longer stroke, combined with the cylinder bore, results in a greater engine displacement.
Please note: Most Piaggio Ape 50 models have a 20 mm flywheel-side crankshaft taper. Older versions, including many 6V models with a pull-start mechanism, generally have a smaller 19 mm taper. This may apply to models such as the TL1T, TL2T and TL3T (Prima Serie).
Before purchasing, always check the taper size of the existing crankshaft and make sure the new crankshaft is compatible with your engine model.
9. Bearings and Oil Seals
When replacing the crankshaft, it is advisable to replace the bearings and oil seals as well. The oil seals are essential for preventing air leaks that can cause engine problems.
The small-end needle bearing for the piston pin is also larger than the original one, measuring 15 × 19 × 20 mm. This needle bearing is often supplied with the crankshaft.
10. An Extended Intake Manifold
Due to the larger cylinder kit, the carburettor no longer fits in its original position. An extended intake manifold allows the carburettor to be mounted slightly further back.
For optimal tuning, it is also possible to install a Polini reed valve intake manifold. This can be combined with enlarging the transfer ports and modifying the intake port by removing material.
11. Vespa 125 Primavera Cooling Shroud
Unfortunately, there are no cooling shrouds available on the market specifically designed for the Piaggio Ape 50 with a 130 cc cylinder kit. The most suitable option is the Vespa 125 Primavera cooling shroud.
Please note: Custom modifications are required to ensure a proper fit.
12. Air filter
For increased airflow, use a performance air filter! Please note: SHBC carburetors feature the original-style connection, whereas PHBL and Polini carburetors do not. Make sure to choose the correct one!
13. The correct installation tools
Specialist tools are required for proper installation, including:
Flywheel puller: To safely remove the flywheel and gain better access to the cylinder kit.
Clutch puller: To remove the clutch.
Clutch repair tools: To correctly disassemble, modify and reassemble the clutch.
Build your ideal conversion kit
With the right components and suitable tools, you can prepare your Piaggio Ape for a powerful 85cc configuration. Choose parts that suit your engine type and intended use, and pay careful attention to carburettor tuning, ignition timing and gearing.
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