A warm welcome to the ODK forums. Given what you have said, I understand your choice of user name ... 'Wasp' ... 'Vespa'
I think I understand why folks with classic scooter backgrounds 'connect' with classic lawnmowers. Their classic air-cooled engines have much in common. In fact, some scooter companies made mowers, and vice versa.
I have never owned a 'classic' scooter. I have owned a GTV250 and currently ride a Piaggio MP3 400. I guess I sort of understand your question then...
My advice to a newbie is simply to research and un-newbie yourself I think a lawnmower from the 1950s or early 1960s would be more appropriate than the VC (my opinion).
Perhaps something with a kick start (just like the old scooters): - Austral Villiers Adaptomatic 16" rotary - Champion 18" kick start rotary
I guess an older mower, from the "golden age", would be the go.