OK, ouch, Neil!...but yes, I agree that the Helix has some odd proportions compared to...well, everything else ever made. I also used to think it was hideous. Its appeal goes beyond its quirky, retro, spacey looks. Outside of vintage Vespa owners...is there any more dedicated group of old scooter enthusiasts than Helix owners? I doubt it. It's a combination of the quirky looks, the amazing reliability, the utility, the COMFORT!,..the comfort and the comfort! Don't knock it until you've ridden one. It puts a smile on your face unlike most anything else on 2 wheels. It's not the fastest or best handling or best at anything....it is just the complete, quirky package that has kept it relevant for almost 40 years, now.
I just went out to my garage to take a few pics and realized there is really no 'good' angle! So yes, it's homely, but she's still a sweetheart.