Modern Vespa

I am considering selling my Vespa but am unsure on the situation regarding test-rides. What happens if someone test-rides my Vespa and crashes it, will my insurance (fully comphrehensive) cover it or will I be left with a huge repair bill?

Many thanks

Wendy

1-Don't sell it...
2-Bit of a grey area.I'd make sure that the person testing it has insurance,or it's a bit of a legal minefield....

You'll have to read your own insurance policy and see if you are covered for other riders. You would have been given the option when you took the policy out.

Most policies in the US cover it if the rider has the proper license. In Ohio a motorcycle endorsement is required. If the rider has your permission, it is usually covered in US-issued policies, but call your insurance company to confirm first. I really have no idea about policies in the UK. That said, I STRONGLY RECOMMEND YOU DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO RIDE YOUR SCOOTER. I can hardly shout that loud enough. If they want it, have them pay you for it in cash (not a bank check--they can be stopped). Full payment. Then they can test ride it. If they don't want it, give them their money back. If they so much as nick the paint, they own it. Sign the ownership documents over after their test ride. I have done this and an honest buyer always understands. If a buyer bitches about it, you can rest assured that they will screw you if they damage your scooter. Better yet, tell them to test ride one at their dealer.

full cash up front and then let them ride it.

Many policies (e.g. from Progressive, Geico, etc.) cover the NAMED INSURED ONLY. Heck, you can't even let your spouse/partner, dad, etc ride. Call your agent!

I've sold many motorcycles. Never allow a test ride. I let them hear it run, and offer to take them for a ride. I insist on cash. I sign over the title. We both sign 2 copies of a bill of sale. Then offer a 30 minute money back guarantee. If they find a problem with the bike and return it undamaged. With cash on the table or unsigned documents they can claim it was only a test ride if they get in an accident and you can be held liable in the US. It is probably the same where you are.

Many thanks for your replies, my insurance does only cover me as a rider. The only reason that I am considering selling is that I don't ride it much. My work is only a 10 minute walk away, and we tend to do a weekly shop using the car. The only time I ride the Vespa is at the weekends (if it's not raining, not too windy or icy) just for a ride out.

Wendy

I have Progressive and had a conversation with them about this recently. I wanted to loan one of my scooters to a friend and for both of us to have peace of mind, I called to check on coverage. I was told that as long as the borrower has the proper license, it's all covered for up to a 2 week period. I asked if I needed to contact Progressive to let them know, and they said no. I don't know if this is because of any option I have on my policy or what, but don't remember signing up for anything special. I have full coverage on my bikes.

Karen

Get it in writing!