Modern Vespa

Hi, I currently have a 2012 GTS 300 and upgraded the shocks a few years ago but going over bad roads with bumps is still jarring and especially for the passenger. Have they made any improvements in ride quality with the 2022 GTS 300 HPE's? I know the small wheels don't help compared to a motorcycle. I like the Vespa but am seriously considering a motorcycle because of this issue.

I am riding a 2013 GTV 300 with the stock suspension. Every once in a while I get a chance to ride my wife's 2021 GTS 300 hpe and it does have better suspension than mine. Enough so that I am considering getting some aftermarket shocks, but I am never riding 2up so I can't help you with an opinion there. Bigger wheels, better suspension, and a better passenger seat might still be what you are looking for.

how many km/miles on the upgraded suspension onetechguy?

if it's jarring for the passenger with upgraded rear shocks then that sounds most likely that the preload is not correctly adjusted (or less likely they are worn out as adri was wondering).

I think I have about 5 or 6 thousand miles on the aftermarket shocks. It is possible I might have to try more preload. I think I'm at #2 out of 4 positions.

The preload seems kind of low for two up. Good place to start.

If you can't make it work, and you like the GTS, I'd seriously consider the BV instead of a motorcycle....bit more power, bigger wheels, and better for a passenger....

I totally agree. There's a distinct improvement in ride comfort with my 2022 GTS compared with my 2013 GTS, especially noticeable when riding over rough patches of road and pot-holes.

Try road-testing the new GTS HPE before you do. You'll be surprised in the improvement in the ride handling compared with your old one.

The HPE Vespas have slightly thicker grips and an improved seat, at least for the rider. I cannot vouch for the pillion seat.

Much of this issue is caused by the design of the rear suspension, where the entire engine assembly is unsprung weight, combined with the limited suspension travel.

The best shocks in the world will never correct for this design.

Certainly it can be improved, and postings are saying that the new HPE is better, but if you want it a lot better, it is best to find something with lower unsprung weight with longer suspension travel.

Bill

You could move to Florida. Our roads are the best of the 6 states I've lived in. The biggest bumps here are the thick painted lines and arrows. Better hurry because we'll be under water in about 10 years

something else that is often forgotten when discussing ride comfort:

tires.

in particular pressures. both for single rider and especially for with a passenger.

also different tire models & brands will be different as the different construction will flex differently.

compare these before judging.

My Kama Scootra book says to try all positions until you find the one that's best for you.

Is that available as a PDF download? Or is it on Audible?

PS, nice to see it's in Urban Dictionary https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Kama%20Scootra

"Yep, that steering is definitely out of alignment"

The Sprint position.

They're not sprinting. They've held the pose long enough for a seagull to land on her leg. Slow and steady

Just a reminder that all this hanky-panky has consequences......

Hello..where was this print from? I'd like to get a copy maybe

You'll find it on the main vespa.com website.