Modern Vespa

Went to look at the bv350 today wasn't blown away.

So I tried out the gts 300hpe as well as a used 2011 Vespa GTS300 Super ie and The dealer also has a 2019 gts 300 ie on liquidation.
I like the hpe very smooth.
I also really like the 2011. comes with windscreen, top box new tires and has 9,000 kilometers on it.

I am here to listen to the wisdom the 2011 is about 2500 cheaper than the hpe.

HPE.

full stop. Nothing more needs to be said 🛵🛵🛵🛵🛵

Okay explain!! Please
Scooter would be for long distance touring on secondary roads 2 up.
So would have to get a topcase and windscreen.

even more reason to go HPE.

other reasons:

newer and will have full warranty.

can never have enough power.

the 2011 is cheap but is going to be worn and various non obvious ways and the rubber parts will be old and possibly starting to degrade and crack. all those sorta things you get with older vehicles.

the 2011 doesn't have ABS

the 2019 would be ok, but might as well pay a bit more and get the HPE.

GTS isn't so great 2-up. Beverly is much more comfortable for longer distance with 2.

I wouldn't consider the 2011 if safety is important to you. Go for one that has ABS, that could end up saving your life.

My wife rides her own scoot (Yamaha Xmax 300); rare that she rides on the back of my Vespa... generally, if we are getting one of the bikes serviced. On those rare occasions, she is not a fan of riding pillion on the GTS: the passenger pegs force the legs out, then in. Her toes whack my heels. The aftermarket passenger peg extensions would be a necessity if we were riding two-up with any regularity.

Be sure to try out, if you can get a ride on one of the used ones (a lot of dealers won't let you test ride a new Vespa)... see how you fit two-up. I also agree that the HPE feels stronger than the previous models. I was perfectly happy with my 2009 GTS, but my wife was encouraging me to update (maybe guilt after she got the Xmax). A significant difference when I got a 2020 GTS HPE.

All that said, if you go with a used GTS, you can get into it for for less money (obviously)... you won't know what you're missing if you don't ride an HPE. If I was looking to do regular two-up, I would give a second look to the BV or the Xmax.

I'd go HPE to avoid buyers remorse. As said the 2011 does not have the safety features of the newer scoots. The tyres might be new but what about all the little rubber bits and bobs? If you already have a stable and just want to add a Vespa to it maybe save some money. For a scoot you will be using on a regular basis buy new for that new scoot smell and warranty. Plus it also comes with new tyres.

As an aside the HPE engine is nice. I had a fully kitted 2017 and my new 2021 HPE is almost as fast until you start getting up in to the higher speeds.

I test rode the BV and the HPE back to back several times (VERY accommodating dealer!!) it was the GTS 300HPE hands down for me.
On the other hand, ditto on comments of two-up riding on the GTS. It's just a better solo bike. I love my GTS but am already considering adding another ride to better accommodate our two-up trips. Had a BV years ago and my spouse always said it was very comfortable for her riding pillion. Haven't decided - but I'm keeping the HPE for sure. All the power I want and a very smooth enjoyable ride - solo.

A similar experience for me. I went to the dealer, expecting to buy the BV350 they had in stock. I was looking for a performance step up from my 2009 GTS. I rode the BV and was impressed with the power, handling, and ride. It had the short wind screen on it, which funneled the air to the bottom of my helmet, making for a loud and buffetting ride. Back at the dealer, this blue GTS HPE grabbed me by the eyeballs. My salesman let me take that one out. The Vespa just felt like home and was closer to the BV in performance than I expected. I went for the Vespa. No regrets. The Vespa had no wind screen and it was quieter and less buffetting than the ride on the BV. I knew either one would need better wind protection for my use... they switched out the windshield with my 2009 (Faco mid-height with a Laminar Lip) which was a bonus.

Welcome to MV, Spyro!

I vote for the HPE as the price difference is small in comparison to the gains. In 2018 we paid $3500 for a dented 2012 with 7000 miles and $3200 for a 2013 with 3700 miles, loaded with topcase and front rack. The "11 on offer seems a little pricey.

I have the 2020 HPE. I wanted the large frame because I'm 6'5" and need the leg room. Besides that, I have to admit that I was drawn to having the most powerful engine yet in a stock Vespa. My last bike was a Yamaha Majesty 400. I wanted something a little smaller/lighter but still with plenty of power. I'm not at all interested in the top end, but I love that acceleration. You literally have to hang on at full throttle. It's exhilarating to leave traffic in the dust. I'm always imagining they are thinking "what the hell was that?"

Thank you everyone for your usual great advice.
I did not take the bv for a ride but sat on it at the dealer.


I will bring my girlfriend to try the hpe two up and see how that goes.
Thanks for the tip on the aftermarket pegs they go for about 45-60.00 on aliexpress.
Should make a difference for the passenger.

Great forum and great advice.
Thanks again
Spyro!!