Modern Vespa

I've got an LX150 and have been thinking about trading up to a GTS 300 Super I.e. the main reason is if like to have more acceleration off the line and in general. I would also like to be able to accelerate faster to keep up more with my buddy who rides a 500cc motorcycle.

What sort of performance increases should I expect when jumping from the LX150 to the 300 Super?

In addition to performance, I am curious to see what you all think I would likely get offered as a trade-in offer for my LX150. She's a 2008 in dragon red with 6,300 miles, original owner, chrome folding rear rack, and stainless steel cowl protectors.

You've answered your own questions correctly. Add to that a quieter scoot, a bit wider, and a more stable feel. Your 500 cc buddy wouldn't have to say "You lead, I'll follow" so much when you ride out, which he probably does, because you're slow climbing hills or passing cages.

I own a 150 and 300, and love both. You're in for a treat by comparison.

Our first Vespa was a 150 and it not only introduced me to riding a motorized two wheeler, but confirmed to both my wife and I that this wasn't a fleeting obsession (she was the experienced MC rider). It wasn't long before we purchased a GTS 250 new and I got to ride the new bike as long as I didn't mind getting chewed out by the wife complaining that she couldn't keep up on the 150, that it was dangerously slow and that she needed a 250 too.

So, we went out and found a used GTV for her with 525 miles on it and haven't looked back. Can't remember what we got for the 150, but it really didn't matter as much as having two bikes that could run together. We regularly take both bikes on longer rides on vacation to the mountains and have one planned for the beach in early Fall. The Vespas have become our preferred mode of transportation.

For me, getting the sturdier, faster bike was a no-brainer, but everyone has their own issues, priorities. You just have to figure it out for yourself.

The one surprise was that it was easier to sell the slightly used 150 than I ever thought. I know I came down on price a little, but I had figured that into the original pricing.

Good luck. Your buddy on the 500cc bike will love it.

I'd recommend a private sale of the 150 instead of a trade-in. Dealers have to make a buck and will offer you a price so they can make a profit on the resale. Put it on Craigslist and put a for sale sign on it and park it in a public place.

You will love the 300. Much better acceleration and top end speed.

I made the same move this Spring. Don't regret it at all. The 300 is a fully capable ride, quicker off the line than many cars.

Thanks for the info. Folks! I agree a private sale is likely the best. Craigslist scares Mecca little. How do you prevent someone from just riding away in a test ride?

Cash in hand. Always have another person on your side there.

No test ride alone. Offer to take them on a two-up ride with you up front. That should be enough to get an idea on the condition of the scoot.

+1-I would worry as much about them stealing the bike as being a newbie and maybe not telling you and crashing your bike before they get half way down the street. Lot's of folks that have no idea what these bikes can do think they are the little crap scooters they rent in Bermuda or South Beach and thus, react the same. I'd offer to take them sitting behind me or watching from the sidewalk as I drove up and down my street, but don't hand them the keys until you have the cash in hand.

And I agree-you will do better selling it on your own!