Modern Vespa

Strong cross winds, gusts and oncoming truck created wind gusts caused my 250 GST to feel as though the rear tire was "spongey" on my way home and if walk like it was walking out on me just a hair...pressure was fine when I got home; is this normal?

Well, a scooter can get "squirrely" is such situations, and if the pressure was fine when you got home, I would be inclined to believe it is normal. I have ridden through gust where I swear I was riding at a 45 degree angle. I know I wasn't, but it felt like it. Be careful out there.

Probably the case; indeed!

It's a good point you made. Riders can be caught unaware.

Was the wind. I don't know if one ever gets used to it. I won't ride when we have over 30mph gusts and especially if it's gusting from all sides as opposed to one side. The key is to relax and go with it. That said i love a good headwind. Be careful.

Ride a Stella in gusty winds a few times. White knuckle riding at its finest

The wind can be the culprit for all kinds of sensations that will prompt you to wonder if something is mechanically wrong. For the longest time I thought I was having tire balance or suspension issues until I got wise and grabbed the windscreen with my hand while the issue was occurring. As soon as I added a bit of support to the windscreen the vibration stopped.

When I got home I adjusted the windscreen a bit, tightened all bolts, and all was right again. I still get that vibration from time to time, but it's typically when dead into a strong headwind.

Precisely why I disliked the GTS at freeway speeds with wind especially. I always felt not quite "planted".

Relax when you ride. There's a learning curve with these little bikes. They'll do different things than larger, more planted "feeling" bikes.

Try adjusting the rear shocks if you can. (I have a single shock with weight adjustments on my 150-might be yours just need to be checked- WD40 makes them easier to turn))

Also try removing the "lunch box" on the rear of the bike. That thing collects a lot of wind and pushes the back of those bikes around a bit.

Cutting windscreens to fit personal height can make the difference too.

Best to you
Harv

On my old LX50, I used to ride home from work along the seafront. It was lovely on a nice calm day. However, being England, it was rarely the case! I used to battle 40-50 knot crosswinds on that little thing. I always used to think it felt a little spongy in high winds. Glad to say I lived to tell the tale and I don't take that route home anymore!

I am getting used to the nuances and feel, not as much "play" today and just as much wind. Loving the scoot!

I would say that's normal. You do get a feeling that you have to lean to go with the gusts. It's a skill in elevated roundabouts.