Modern Vespa

Hi guys,
So after years of cycling in London I've decided I want a scooter to get me to and from work quicker and for the odd trip for some fresh air in the countryside/coast.
I am 6'3" and so have been looking at scooters that will accommodate me. I found a lovely looking GTS supersport, 2014 plate with 8,000 miles in a showroom for £2,800. Looks to be in good condition, FSH etc. My question is - do you think this is a good price? For comparison I have found a 1 yr old Honda PCX, nearly new, with 600 miles on the clock for £2,000 so hopefully you can understand my quandry. I have heard that vespas are less reliable and are less comfortable to ride (small wheels, inferior suspension) but I do think they look so cool. Hondas on the other hand I understand are very reliable, good to ride etc. but they don't look cool do they... I think it's a choice between head and heart but I would appreciate your advice. If you think the vespa is a good deal I will probably go for it!
Thanks!

Sorry I should have said - I've done my CBT so am looking at 125cc!

I'm 6'3" and about 200lbs and my GTS and GT scooters fit me quite well. The bigger issue is whether it's worth spending so much on your first scooter when you're moderately likely to scratch it up or drop it at some point. You'd do better (in my eyes) getting an older GTS that's already a bit worn. That way, when you decide you want the 300, you won't lose much money on selling. I've found both my Vespa to be pretty reliable.

Hi TP,

Welcome to the site.

I'm 6'2" tall with long inseam and the GT/GTS's all fit me very well. I'm comfy with plenty of knee room. The GTS125 is a very capable machine and is in a different class to the Honda you mention. It's way better in my mind, and no offense to any Honda owners. They are all good but the GTS is a bit special. Much more solid and robust. The engines go for ever if you service them properly with a good quality motorcycle oil. Overall, there is little difference in quality between Japanese bikes and Vespa/Piaggio these days. And the GTS is certainly sporting a fantastic finish. Honda's tend to use up camchain tensioners much more quickly than some other makes of bike. At least, that's what I've found in the workshop and others will tell you the same. However, whatever you go for you can't really go wrong. The one thing that will clinch it for you is a test ride. I know which one you will go for after that, and it's not the Honda. The ride on the Vespa is amazing and it takes the bumps better in my opinion than the larger wheeled Honda, again, as many will tell you. The small wheels are not a disadvantage.

Take a look at this video of a guy testing the 300GTS against his Honda larger wheeled scooter. And I agree with him. The only real difference between GTS125 and 300 is the engine so it's a valid comparison that may help you. But get that test ride....and good luck!

I've been commuting through London for 2 years on a GTS 125, other than a puncture I have had no issues with reliability, little things runs great and I love it.

If you're in London check some of the security and theft threads before you purchase though. If you are parking on the street you'll get more sleep with something less desirable to the thieving little fks that target vespas


Enjoy if you get it.