Modern Vespa

When starting its making what sounds like a "metal ping" kind of noise and after holding for a second it starts ok, what could be the issue?

The starter bendix is not engaging enough to turn the engine gear properly - just kind of hitting the two surfaces slightly. So, bendix may need to be cleaned up, or the starter switch may be a little wonky or the relay is going south,or most likely, your battery may need to be charged up or replaced.

well the battery is brand new and fully charged within the last week, so count that out...the bike has 700 miles on it, are there any tutorials available on cleaning the bendix?

I know the was a short tutorial from a member. Best if you do a search on here and maybe check out Scooterwests line of vids as well.

It's a 2003 so with only 700 miles on it so it's been sitting a while. The starter bendix might have some corrosion on it or even benefit from a few drops of oil even though Piaggio discourages oiling it. I would still begin with charging the battery fully to see if that's the problem. If that doesn't help, here is a video as noted above. By the way, I don't recommend the variator part of the video, they didn't remove and clean the fixed plate and the Motorsport lx150 video shows that part better & easier.

Bill

Alright, I knew someone would find it. Good man Cosmos!