Modern Vespa

All, I am starting a new job in Jizan Province of Saudi Arabia. I'm thinking of taking my 2009 BV 250 with me. Average temps range from 75 - 100 degrees F. Any advice on hot weather performance issues, spares to take, etc., will be appreciated. - Cheers!

Hi Mod85, welcome back!, I see your first and last post was over 5 years ago!

Geographically I am not far from you. I moved to Cyprus 3 months ago from the UK and I've found riding in hot temperatures can be uncomfortable at times although I have never regretted shipping my scoot out here. Now that the cooler temperatures have arrived, riding in the warm climate is a blast.

I don't know what the Vespa dealerships are like in Saudi, but if I were you I would take with you some spare consumables, i.e. oil filter, oils (engine, gearbox and brake), coolant, belt, spark plug, fuses, air filter bulbs and perhaps a new set of tyres. Even if you don't do your own wrenching, once you've found a competant motorcycle mechanic, you can always give him these spares should you need work doing. You can probably get most of these items out there, but until you are familiar of where the motor part shops are, it is peace of mind knowing you have them.

Before shipping my scoot I did a basic service, changed the oil to 5-40 fully synthetic motorcycle oil, changed the brake fluid and gearbox oil and the coolant. You should have plenty of room in your shipping crate for all your spares and tools. Don't forget before shipping you will need to remove your top box and windscreen (to minimise space) and don't forget to disconnect your battery.

Riding attire and helmet choice are hotly debated on this site. Because of the high temperatures, I ride with T-shirt, shorts and open faced helmet. I know the risks, but that's my own personal choice.

Anyway, that's my input for what it's worth, but on the question of should you ship your scoot, I would say a definute YES!!

BTW, If you do decide to ship your scoot and have every intention of shipping it back to the US, keep the shipping crate for when you do return. I dismantled mine so I could store it ready for when I go back to the UK.

Andrew

Until the last couple years of retirement I commuted on my scoot summer and winter in Phoenix, Arizona. I have a picture on my phone, posted here somewhere, of the thermometer on my BV350. It reads 122F. I'd think you're BV250 would be OK.