Modern Vespa

I'm getting very close to buying a GT200. I was distracted for a while thinking about waiting for the 250, but I've decided I don't need the extra power (and can live w/o fuel injection). One of my few remaining questions is about service and repair. The nearest Vespa dealer to me is over 50 miles away (and this is where I'll most likely buy). The next closest is nearly 200 miles. My intention is to take it to the dealer for service/repair by pickup truck or trailer (or maybe riding it). Not ideal, but doable. I'm wondering, however, for something minor or after the warranty expires, is it likely that a good motorcycle/scooter mechanic closer by will be able to do a decent job. I realize that "good mechanic" is a key phrase, but what I'm really wondering is how mechanically unique the GT200 is in the world of scooters (or even in the world of Vespas). I'm not asking about the quality of a particular dealer's service, just the idea of using a "non-Vespa shop." Or is this even a sensible question? Thanks.

A good one should be fine, and because of the Moss-Magnusson Act, you can take your Vespa anywhere for routine maintenance even during the warranty without voiding it. You could even do the work yourself, if you want. Now, Vespa might require you to take it there to have warranty repairs performed.

If you can find a shop that will do the work it should be fine, but then again would you take your Ford into a Honda shop for repairs?? If you plan on doing the services yourself buy a shop manaul and READ IT. I have always encourage my customer if they want to work on their own scooters to do it.
The Moss-Magnusson Act only applies to cars from what I read and not to power sport (motorcycle/scooter) industry. If you (Bryce Ludwig) find that it does apply to power sport vehicles give me the link, so that I may know more about it. Thanks in advance
Rosieandnat you should have all the support from your Vespa shop once you have purchase your Vespa and from this forum if you have any further questions.

Happy scootering,
Sean

I've read in print somewhere that it applies to vehicles, not just cars. I could be wrong though.

As for taking a Honda to a Ford dealer, that's not what I'm talking about. Taking a Honda to an independent repair shop is more the scenario in my mind. A number of non-Vespa dealers have been doing scooter service before Vespa came back to the US. Some of them are certified as authorized repair centers by Vespa. Despite the fact that shops like Sportique carry Kymco, Derbi, Aprilia, and other brands, they were doing work on scooters before those brands were available. It would be like your local import car repair shop taking on a dealership franchise.

Their is an indepedent motorcycle shop close by my house who has done work on a chinese scooter for me. I would not hesitate to take my GT their for routine survice. I think the mechanic is really good. However if something really goes wrong. I'm taking my scoot to the Vespa dealer who in my case is also 50 miles away.

While my scoot was under warrenty they picked it up at no charge and fixed it. Now there is a $60.00 charge for pickup. I bought a trailer incase I need to bring it in and leave it. The trailer can also be used to bring it with on vacation or where ever. (When I don't ride it.)

Now that I am out of waranty I would like to do all the routine maintenance myself. I'm going to see if there are any DIY articles around.

MGG

You should consider yourself lucky. When I first got started in scooters my closest shop, without crossing into canada, was 7.5 hours away. only 3.5 with crossing into canada.

Remember, we're not dealing with fords or hondas, we're dealing with what most people still consider a toy. For the dealers of these "toys" to stick around for the long haul, the folks buying the "toys" need to support their dealership. Without customers businesses tend to lock their doors and close up shop. then there would be no place to go for warranty repairs. Throw your dealership a bone every now and then. Get to know the folks at the shop. Believe me, hell hath no fury like an angry mechanic.

crazy + mechanic = cool

angry + mechanic = possible disaster

-larry

Wise, very wise... You're smart for a demonic type.