When Indonesians showered their love on the iconic Vespa
Italian Vespa scooter
Every year, Indonesians from teens and grandads, to mechanics and students, gather in eastern Java to celebrate their love of the iconic Italian Vespa scooter.
For some, it's an 'extreme' kind of love, where the vehicles are customised to resemble metallic monster bikes straight out of a Hollywood dystopia.
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Restored vintage Vespas
Hundreds of enthusiasts travel to the festival in Kediri to show off their creations – ranging from restored vintage Vespas to Mad Max-style tanks fitted with fake machine guns, a dozen extra tyres, or eerie stuffed toys as hood ornaments.
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Customised vehicle
To enter into competitions at the festival, every customised vehicle must have a Vespa engine and most contestants try to retain the brand's iconic fairing - the curved front of the scooter.
But other embellishments are up to the owners and their budgets. While many can only afford scrap metal or reused material found at a junkyard, some others splash out.
The three-day festival, now in its third year, is one of several held across the country. Highlights include a contest to pick the best-looking entry and dirt-track races for the speedier bikes.
The enthusiasts attract glances and smiles from locals because of the designs of their elaborate Vespas.
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Problems arise
As the vehicles are often unlicensed, many travel at night to avoid traffic police. Mechanical problems arise, with some of the more ramshackle machines often breaking down.
Mostly, the gatherings are about catching up with fellow Vespa-lovers and having fun. "We are independent, but we gather like a community," said Julia Ningsih, 19.
