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Hello all,
I've always been interested in a Vespa and I'm close to purchasing one but I'm still a little on the fence as to whether it's for me. I've been riding motorcycles for 15 years, primarily sport bikes, but I am looking for a change. I tried a Can-am Spyder for 2 years and hated it, so I'm being a little more cautious after taking a $10k hit on the Spyder.
Can any of you tell me why you purchased your Vespa?
If you came from riding motorcycles and traded for a Vespa, do you miss your motorcycle?

Any info will be greatly appreciated!
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Molto Verboso
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UTC quote
Iconic.
Classic styling.
Supremely maneuverable.
It respects the idea of form following function.
Every one is a work of Art.--- Either you get it or you don't. It sounds like you get it.
Vespa, Piaggio, and other scooters are part of a community of people who take time to sit in the neighborhood café and talk about the scooter their uncle used to own, before they take a barefoot walk on a beach.
---Being cool isn't doing things that others think of as cool, it is doing something that you think is cool and not really caring if anyone notices-- but eventually the smart ones will realize just how cool you really are.
In a World of Drones who only desire to fit in, it makes a statement that you are an independent thinker.--- the funny part is, is that there are a lot of us independent thinkers who fit in well together.

I rode dirt bikes as a kid. My first street ride was this funky, odd, goofball three wheel scooter that fits me perfectly. 42K miles in 4 years and no desire to get lost in a sea of motorcycles. ---Yes, that's my tricycle there. Want to go for a ride?
Steve H/B
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UTC quote
sell me on a vespa
i used to ride sports bike until i bought my 250 gts 7 seven years a ago.Wouldnt believe how easy it is riding around without changing gear or using gears.Go and buy it[/b]
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UTC quote
It's just a different experience riding around town on a Vespa. Sure, some people are going to think you're a goofball for choosing a scooter instead of a "real bike", but accepting that just frees you to simply have FUN.

I smiled and laughed more during the first weekend that I had my Vespa than I had in the past few years combined with my other bikes.
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Thank you for the replies!
I do get it, and I usually go my own way and I am not influenced by other people's opinions.
Btw, I love the MP3's... They must be a blast to ride.

I'm trying to decide on two new left overs or new 2016...
2014 white 300 Super ($5499)
2015 Gloss Black 300ie ($5999)
2016 Super Sport ($6799)

I like the look of the black better, plus it has the new speedo cluster, but it is 2.5hrs away.
I'd prefer the Super model, but not a big fan of the white, plus it's 2 years old.
UTC

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Rode dirt bikes for a few years. always wanted a street bike. turned 50 and figured no time like the present. I live in a rural area where speed is frowned on. having a GSX-R or even Harley seemed...not really my style.

A 12 mile round trip commute on a two lane country road with a 40 mph speed limit seemed like the ideal setting for a Vespa. 2015 White GTS 300 Super. Only a week old, but still ear to ear grins.
Forum member supplied image with no explanatory text
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It really is sort of funny: forty-years-plus away from motorized anything, then, after moving from where I never really needed anything with an engine to get around, to a place where having something with an engine might be a good idea, I plot toward getting a used mid-size motorcycle, then decide (with persuasive convincing from my Sig. Other) to go with a scooter instead...but I get to pick whatever scoot I desire, and end up with a new GTS 300 Super.

And...it's pretty much everything I could want. Ridiculously practical. Lovely handling. Truly snappy performance which demands respect with the throttle. Style that speaks for itself (and has for decades now). Up-to-date in ways that belie its "classic" styling. (To paraphrase a famous hip-hop line, don't call it "retro", it's been here for years...and is the original.)

I think you could say I like it. A lot. Will you? I'd say it's rather likely.
⚠️ Last edited by amateriat on UTC; edited 1 time
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Molto Verboso
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I traded in a Triumph Bonneville as part of the sale when I got my GTS. I've had a smaller scooter, a sport bike, a cruiser, and a standard before the Vespa. There are some things I miss about the Bonnie, but every time I get the itch to start window shopping, my particular pro/con comparison makes me happy with the GTS, going with the assumption that I can only have one bike. (True for me currently because of budget.)

I don't think there is such a thing as "the best single bike." They each have their strengths, weaknesses, and no-go's.
For example: being on a 600 lb. cruiser when the pavement turns to a twisty gravel road for a couple miles was about the time I decided that bike and me weren't working out. I miss the rear brake pedal I could use with my whole foot or heel, but it was too big (physically) and heavy for where and how I ride.

My body hated the position the sport bike put me in, simple as that. Also, I've come to realize I very much prefer a bike to carry its weight middle- to bottom-heavy. Some get along just fine with top-heavy bikes...I'm not one of them.

So far, the Bonnie was my favorite. A sixth gear would have been really nice, but...eh. I had 2 big reasons to trade it in. 1: the Triumph/Ducati dealer here (that has since closed) upped its labor rate by over $30/hour. I was a month into what ended up being a 10-month (voluntary) car-free period, and that price increase made the annual maintenance more expensive that the car I had just gotten rid of. 2: motorcycles have little to no wind protection, especially when you compare them to scooters. I go visit friends out of town once a month and it's a 140-mile 'round trip. On the GTS, I've done it comfortably in 20-ish degree F weather. I did the trip the week before I traded on the Bonnie. The clearance between the shifter and the left footpeg didn't allow me to wear my heavy winter boots and I'm pretty sure I risked at least frost-nip on the return trip. That ride was hovering around the freezing mark.

I really, really miss gears some days. When I'm on the interstate, I miss motorcycles. I DON'T miss water splashing up my legs even after it's stopped raining, having to be very meticulous about washing the bike in a timely manner in winter. Chain maintenance: I LOVE having an enclosed drivetrain! I like not having to pay so much for parts and service. I like the built-in storage capacity and having that secure space under the seat on the Vespa where my rain gear lives and I can stash my riding gear instead of having to remember to bring a backpack if I don't want to keep wearing the gear after I dismount.

If I get the chance, I'm definitely getting either another Bonnie or an adventure bike of some kind. (Currently eyeing a V-Strom, but I keep coming back to the Bonnie.) I'm not getting rid of my GTS to do it, though.
Heh. One of these days, my garage is going to be Mods vs Rockers.
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Veni, Vidi, Posti
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@dooglas avatar
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The GTS is a great all round scooter and makes a good choice for someone who is used to the power of a larger ride. I would go for a 2015/2016 with the new front suspension - an important upgrade IMO.
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UTC quote
Many good comments above. I've had several scoots including a Silverwing 600, Burgman 650 and a couple of GTS's. Vespa adjectives are for me at least:

Character
Style
Fun
Function over form
Originality
Longevity
Reliability
Simplicity
Understated
Value (inc resale)

The grin factor in town work is great - it somehow manages to blend in yet standout when you park up.

I could be shot for saying this but in very objective terms there are models which function better in certain areas for less money but they completely lack the cache of a Vespa.

Riding a Wasp says everything and nothing - you can be a prince(ss) or a pauper, uber edgy or pedestrian they are just cool transportation.

Just my tuppence.
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Re: Sell me on a Vespa
MikePol wrote:
Hello all,
I've always been interested in a Vespa and I'm close to purchasing one but I'm still a little on the fence as to whether it's for me. I've been riding motorcycles for 15 years, primarily sport bikes, but I am looking for a change. I tried a Can-am Spyder for 2 years and hated it, so I'm being a little more cautious after taking a $10k hit on the Spyder.
Can any of you tell me why you purchased your Vespa?
If you came from riding motorcycles and traded for a Vespa, do you miss your motorcycle?

Any info will be greatly appreciated!
I started on 2 wheels with plastic bodied scooters, then had "proper" motorbikes for about ten years. I bought an ET4 125 as a second machine just for a bit of fun, then test rode a GTS300.

Within about 30 seconds of setting off on it, I'd made my mind up that I was going to buy it as it was so much fun.

I kept it for six years and have only recently moved back to motorbikes, purely because I fancied a change and there was nothing new on the Vespa horizon. I know I'll be back to a scooter again in a few years time.
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The social side

You get all us lot as buddies

Welcome to MV, sounds like you're staying 8)
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Welcome
At risk of being rude. You're using rusty rope's picture in your avatar
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You guys make a very compelling case, thanks for your input. I'm definitely getting one as soon as the weather breaks. Unfortunately there aren't many Vespa dealers left in Pittsburgh that carry stock to look at, so I'll have to order one.

So the 2015 model got an upgraded suspension on all models? Or was it just on the Super? Can the upgraded suspension parts be installed on a 2014?

I apologize about the avatar, I'll change it.
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Hooked
Whats next?
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Whats next?
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Get the color you want. I decided to get a left over GTS250, not the color I really wanted, but at a drastically reduced price. Hindsight being 20/20, really wish I had chosen the White GTS300 Super or ordered the Silver GTS300 & would probably still have it today.

J

PS I'm going back to scoots too! Put a deposit on a clean left over 2013 Burgman 650, pick her up on Wednesday! I have transitioned up the CC ladder and going back down again. You name it I've had it 125 -1800cc. I rode more when they were lighter and more efficient!
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I did the same thing... started low cc and kept moving up until I realized I really wasn't riding much anymore because I wasn't having as much fun...
I had a Honda Grom last summer and it was the most fun I've had on a bike in a long time, unfortunately it couldn't handle the hills and I was slowing traffic. If it just had a little more power, I would have kept it.
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fleece wrote:
The social side

You get all us lot as buddies

Welcome to MV, sounds like you're staying 8)
Best reason yet.
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MikePol wrote:
I did the same thing... started low cc and kept moving up until I realized I really wasn't riding much anymore because I wasn't having as much fun...
I had a Honda Grom last summer and it was the most fun I've had on a bike in a long time, unfortunately it couldn't handle the hills and I was slowing traffic. If it just had a little more power, I would have kept it.
Sounds like a 300cc Vespa is good for you. I was without any bike for a while, then set my eyes on Kawasaki W800. It looked gorgeous, but I was very dissapointed to the driving position, not my bike. Then there was an ad of a yellow Sprint staring at me, took a spin an was sold. I believe it's the same "Grom" effect. I also realized / got reminded, that I really don't need any faster bike, just enjoyed the lightness at slow speeds. If you think Grom was a bit slow, then a 125/150 would be too slow for you too (?).

Sprint has also the new front suspension. It works OK - based on the descriptions I've read in MV, I would at least test drive an older GTS properly before buying. I've not driven the new GTS myself, didn't like the bulkiness of the old compared to Sprint, can't say I paid any attention to the front suspension during the test drive.
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UTC quote
I love this thread as I'm in the same boat. I'm pretty close to buying a 2015 gts 300 but need to get my motorcycle license in Baltimore first. I hope to find people to ride with on here once i do.
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I've ridden a bunch of scooters. My Vespa by far is the fastest one out there (i have a LX 150). It's comfortable ( stock shocks are so so but i put Malossi's on) and i always get nice comments about it. Plus it puts a smile on my face every time i ride it. Get the color you want. I bought mine in CA and had it shipped. Couldn't get the color i wanted here. Ended up to be cheaper. He is almost 9yrs old and has over 36,000 miles and is still going strong. Also you have this great forum to belong to. Doesn't get much better. Good luck
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UTC quote
MikePol wrote:
You guys make a very compelling case, thanks for your input. I'm definitely getting one as soon as the weather breaks. Unfortunately there aren't many Vespa dealers left in Pittsburgh that carry stock to look at, so I'll have to order one.

So the 2015 model got an upgraded suspension on all models? Or was it just on the Super? Can the upgraded suspension parts be installed on a 2014?.
All three variations of the GTS (GTS/Super/Super Sport) starting with the 2015 model year have the upgraded suspension (among other updates). I suppose one *could* swap the new suspension unit to an older GTS, but I would guess the cost and effort would not be advantageous over buying a new bike (with which you get a nice two-year warranty, etc.).
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I had been 10 years on a BMW R1200GS which I had been thinking of downsizing from due to age and the fact that I was now only commuting on it.

Then it got totalled in October 2014 and I had over a year off two wheels getting my skeleton sorted out Wha? emoticon

Like the GS (ten years ago) the Vespa makes no attempt to be 'modern' or 'trendy' or 'cool' and ends up being all three. 8)

It is comfortable, I can ride as fast as I did on the GS around town, it costs a fraction to own and run and I can carry stuff without great hunking panniers making the bikes arse look like an elephant. All weather riding is a breeze, it';s easy to move around if your joints are getting a bit stiffer - need more??

i swapped one icon of style for another
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Many excellent ideas above. Just another angle for you, if it's new in the showroom, it's new. Take advantage of the price break. If you bought a 2014 today, try not to think of it as already 2 years old. Model years, if you even want to call them that, aren't very meaningful. Now and again they will do something fairly significant, but it's not an annual event like U.S. automakers try to make it. Now, if a 2016 has something you must have, and no other model has it, then there's your choice. Otherwise older stock in your favorite color would be a good bet.
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Hooked
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Sell you on a Vespa. Hmm...

Read
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A Vespa is a tremendously useful and fun machine, superior to many motorcycles in these aspects.

Nearly all maintenance can be done DIY with some simple tools, and questions will be addressed accurately here.
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UTC quote
MikePol wrote:
Thank you for the replies!
I do get it, and I usually go my own way and I am not influenced by other people's opinions.
Btw, I love the MP3's... They must be a blast to ride.

I'm trying to decide on two new left overs or new 2016...
2014 white 300 Super ($5499)
2015 Gloss Black 300ie ($5999)
2016 Super Sport ($6799)

I like the look of the black better, plus it has the new speedo cluster, but it is 2.5hrs away.
I'd prefer the Super model, but not a big fan of the white, plus it's 2 years old.
Ahh, decisions...

Any of the three would be wonderful ('specially since they're all new), but I'm rather biased toward the '15 and 16 models, because, in order of importance:

- New, refined front suspension

- ABS & ASR (traction control) standard; optional on earlier models

- Engine tweaked for improved mid-range torque

- Interface (cable) between speedo and front wheel now electronic

- Improved (IMO, anyway) analog/digital instrumentation

On a practical level: while the Super Sport's matte-finish paint is crazy-stylin', it's also somewhat more fragile: for one thing, you don't want to spill any gasoline on it. A related issue is touching up scratches and chips: more easily done with a gloss finish, particularly in a primary color. (My GTS Super was a floor model with about 100 miles already put on it by the owner of the dealership, making it easier to strike a deal and happily ride off...and black was just fine with me.)
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CrazyCarl wrote:
Nearly all maintenance can be done DIY with some simple tools, and questions will be addressed accurately here.
Ahem...as much as I love my Vespa, I'll have to say that it is THE most difficult two wheeler for DIY work I've ever owned. Many small things to do require first taking of a number of bits and pieces AND everything is packaged so tightly, I'll find my fingers and tools are always oversized.

Once you' are able to find and touch the parts you wish, withiut brakings anything, then I'll agree that the mechanics are mostly simple.

And to turn this all to a selling point - Vespa is relatively reliable, so it definitely does not require DIY skills any more than "modern" plastic scooters.
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So what am I losing if I don't get the Super? The black 2015 leftover sounds to be the best deal, but it's not a Super.

I was worried about the matte paint being easy to scratch and difficult to touch up, however the matte grey 2016 Super Sport is the one I'd get if I decide to order one.
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MikePol wrote:
So what am I losing if I don't get the Super? The black 2015 leftover sounds to be the best deal, but it's not a Super.

I was worried about the matte paint being easy to scratch and difficult to touch up, however the matte grey 2016 Super Sport is the one I'd get if I decide to order one.
The matte paint is more difficult to look after than standard paint, I understand that fuel spills need seeing to immediately. It does like nice though. The super has the vents on the side, black polished wheels and a slightly different seat. The suspension is better on the latest models (2015 onwards) but it isn't bad on the older ones.
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MikePol wrote:
So what am I losing if I don't get the Super? The black 2015 leftover sounds to be the best deal, but it's not a Super.

I was worried about the matte paint being easy to scratch and difficult to touch up, however the matte grey 2016 Super Sport is the one I'd get if I decide to order one.
Relative noob here, but I have been dailying a GTS 250 since August, and have driven the Super Sport and the 300ie. They are all delightful and the joy you'll get from getting ANY Vespa GTS will be well worth your money. However, the guy that owned the matte Super Sport said that rear bars were essential in a town if you don't want the paint scratched, which is hella difficult to maintain. I think you can get them in matte black as well, to match.

Regardless, be reassured that whatever you get will be an amazing decision. Though, for my first Vespa, I'd go with the gloss black. As a 2015 model you get all the good stuff (suspension, refinements over the 14).
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@fledermaus avatar
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IMHO the 2015 GTS is the best choice. Definite upgrade with suspension & etc. The difference with the Super Sport is mostly cosmetic, and unless you're in love with the cosmetics, it's just more expense. You can use any $$ left over for gear.

Of course I may be biased.
<
<
<
8)
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Location: Ogden, UT U.S.A.
UTC quote
I absolutely love my LX and have never been inspired to buy a GTS. However, I never ride on the freeway and most of my time is spent jaunting around the neighborhood.

The "Twist and Go" and nimble control are my two of my favorite things about a scoot. Hopping on and riding is an absolute joy. Turing on a dime and maneuvering around town make you feel like you are flying.
@gloria avatar
UTC

Addicted
Bea 2007 LX150.
Joined: UTC
Posts: 725
Location: Santa Fe
 
Addicted
@gloria avatar
Bea 2007 LX150.
Joined: UTC
Posts: 725
Location: Santa Fe
UTC quote
I had a mechanic tell me never to get something where I have to shift gears. I am lousy at it. Truly.

I love my GTS and miss it terribly. but I am beginning to love my 150 and if it can travel as I think it can and not be limited to what others say it should then I will be very very happy.
@preddybaer avatar
UTC

Hooked
GTS300, CRF1000 & Moto 6.5
Joined: UTC
Posts: 496
Location: Berlin, Germany
 
Hooked
@preddybaer avatar
GTS300, CRF1000 & Moto 6.5
Joined: UTC
Posts: 496
Location: Berlin, Germany
UTC quote
my only real alternative for GTS was Aprilia Moto 65

External inline image provided by member with no explanatory text

External inline image provided by member with no explanatory text
@amateriat avatar
UTC

Ossessionato
2015 GTS 300 Super (Melody: 2015-2021, RIP), 2022 GTS SuperTech (Thelonica; bit the dust 02-22-23)
Joined: UTC
Posts: 3925
Location: Asbury Park, NJ
 
Ossessionato
@amateriat avatar
2015 GTS 300 Super (Melody: 2015-2021, RIP), 2022 GTS SuperTech (Thelonica; bit the dust 02-22-23)
Joined: UTC
Posts: 3925
Location: Asbury Park, NJ
UTC quote
MikePol wrote:
So what am I losing if I don't get the Super? The black 2015 leftover sounds to be the best deal, but it's not a Super.

I was worried about the matte paint being easy to scratch and difficult to touch up, however the matte grey 2016 Super Sport is the one I'd get if I decide to order one.
Differences:

GTS:

- Rear folding rack
- No piping trim on saddle (brown)
- Blue backlighting on instrument panel

GTS Super:

- No rear rack
- Contrasting piping on saddle (white-on-black)
- Chrome trimmed horn grille on shield "tie" insert
- Cutout "ventilation" slats in right-rear bodywork (not as functional as on "vintage" Vespas, I'm told.)
- Grey tinting surrounding headlight glass
- Red backlighting on instrument panel
- "Super" insignia on back above taillight, "S" insert on front fender ornament

GTS Super Sport - mostly the same as GTS Super, plus:

- Ribbed seat surface
- Matte-finish paint (black in '15, silver-grey for '16)
- Color-contrasting horn grille trim on shield "tie" insert
- "Super" striping insignia on rear panels, "S" striping on back of front fender
- "Super Sport" insignia on legshield glovebox door

As far as anything performance-related (engine, suspension, ABS/ASR, etc.), there isn't a lick o' difference between the three. Pick the one you fancy. Just remember that I'm referring to the 2015 and '16 GTSs here.
⚠️ Last edited by amateriat on UTC; edited 1 time
@amateriat avatar
UTC

Ossessionato
2015 GTS 300 Super (Melody: 2015-2021, RIP), 2022 GTS SuperTech (Thelonica; bit the dust 02-22-23)
Joined: UTC
Posts: 3925
Location: Asbury Park, NJ
 
Ossessionato
@amateriat avatar
2015 GTS 300 Super (Melody: 2015-2021, RIP), 2022 GTS SuperTech (Thelonica; bit the dust 02-22-23)
Joined: UTC
Posts: 3925
Location: Asbury Park, NJ
UTC quote
PreddyBaer wrote:
my only real alternative for GTS was Aprilia Moto 65

External inline image provided by member with no explanatory text

External inline image provided by member with no explanatory text
You know, I sort of see the Piaggio/Vespa influence here, and I'll give Aprilla points for that (and originality...hard to confuse that with most any other moto, especially in the silver/orange finish). But I'd never part with my GTS for one.
UTC

Hooked
Joined: UTC
Posts: 208
Location: glen burnie md
 
Hooked
Joined: UTC
Posts: 208
Location: glen burnie md
UTC quote
lad as one who was born and raisedin the burg no lessthan a 300 cc vespa.
remember them there hills and pot hooles. i had a old shift one in colleger duquesne, go for it and enjoy as a young one i had some triumphs and a honda 250 scrambler. i had to lay that one down on the parkway east, whiule in grad school.

go for it go steelers
@dvh1150 avatar
UTC

Hooked
2024 300 GTS "Classico" + 2001 ET2 50
Joined: UTC
Posts: 459
Location: Desert Hot Springs, CA
 
Hooked
@dvh1150 avatar
2024 300 GTS "Classico" + 2001 ET2 50
Joined: UTC
Posts: 459
Location: Desert Hot Springs, CA
UTC quote
The short answer is, Yes! Get one! Post haste! I started with a GTV300ie in 2011, but finances caused me to have to sell. Not quite a year later, I purchased a friend's ET2 50 at a "brother-in-law" price just 'cause I "had to have" another Vespa! Sunny and 88 in Palm Springs today...took that ET2 50 out for a two-hour jaunt. Grinned the whole time! Looking to add another Vespa in the next year or so -- perhaps an ET4 150 or, if I'm ever that lucky, another GTV300ie in Portofino green...my dream scoot...and I won't let this one go!!!

Victor
UTC

Member
GTS 300 SuperSport, Sherco 300 SER
Joined: UTC
Posts: 16
Location: Sydney
 
Member
GTS 300 SuperSport, Sherco 300 SER
Joined: UTC
Posts: 16
Location: Sydney
UTC quote
How timely!
Currently I ride dirt ( Sherco 300 SER) and road ( Ducati Hypermotard EVO SP).
I hardly ride the roadbike so am in the process of selling it and will probs buy a scooter: Vespa GTS 250/300.
I've had a few scooters before including a PX200E.
What I'm worried about is missing the bike.
Anyone regret selling a bike to get a scooter?
@wandrews714 avatar
UTC

Member
P200 / GTS 300
Joined: UTC
Posts: 31
Location: Columbus, OH
 
Member
@wandrews714 avatar
P200 / GTS 300
Joined: UTC
Posts: 31
Location: Columbus, OH
UTC quote
I agree with the comments above about the 2015 & 2016 models. IMO the performance upgrades from the 2014 make either of those models the way to go. After much research I took the plunge on a 2016 GTS Super. I wanted something to supplant my P200 for every day rides. It's early on but no regrets.
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