Modern Vespa

Own '01 ET4, first Vespa. I'm hooked, love it. Ride all the time. Considering a 2nd scooter for around town, no freeways at my skill level just yet. Motorcycle school next week. For a 2nd scooter, would you recommend new or used?? And what size if I'm 6'1"
and 240 lbs. I was thinking 250-300ccs and ideally 2013-newer but not brand new.
I understand no warranties with used and
on somewhat of a budget. Reason for 2nd is my daughter rides our ET4 and wanted to cruise together soon. Again, no freeways.

Can go with a 250 or 300 - though they are heavier. Alternatively can get a 125/150 and increase the engine displacement with a kit. This has the advantage of more power without an increase in weight.

What are your typical top speeds. With your size, a smaller scooter will be more sluggish at higher speeds, hills, etc. You'll appreciate the punch from a smaller scooter. I'm taller (and heavier) and appreciate the bit of extra room of a large frame. A lot of my riding is at 45 mph+ and the extra power is a game changer. Of course if you're riding with a smaller scooter along, it won't matter much..

A larger and heavier guy looking for a range of urban and rural riding experiences would do best with a 250-300cc scooter IMO. I'd say look for a used 300 GTS, preferably with ABS (which would mean '15 or newer).

A GTS for sure, 300 if possible, but don't shy away from a well taken care of GTS 250 if you come across a good deal.

GTS 300 for sure. Remember, you can always go slower with the bigger Vespa. For your size, go GTS 300 - you will love it.

Bob Copeland

I second this.

I'm 'only' 5' "10, but do currently smash the scales at 240 (pounds, not kilos)

At my serious biomass, my '20 GTS 300 performs very well, and deals with medium headwinds and uphill grades surprisingly well, and I'm completely satisfied with the 300's road performance though I only reluctantly run it on our 75 mph interstate I-90, and then only for relatively short distances, usually less than five miles.

I'm always impressed with the Vespa 300's overall performance, even with our other three, quite large motorcycles as a point of reference.

I am a 235 pound dude - My GTS 300 is just fine. My ET4 was fine too which is 150cc.....If it was sluggish I didnt really notice. It's just about your comfort. I would get the 300.

Another vote for a 300. Bigger, heavier, but just as nimble when rolling, and the extra power when you're ready for it.

If you're willing to go 2013 need to consider all the way back to 2010, same scoot. And only significant changes from 2014-2018 are ABS and different dash.

A new GTS is $10k out the door. Should be able to pick up a low miles 2010-2013 for $3k, a bit more for the ABS years, even a HPE for $6k. I watched the Cali market for nearly 2 years before pulling the trigger on a nearly new 2018 for $5k. Use craigs and marketplace, lot of scoots on there with higher ask but they don't sell.

A low mileage, used 250 or 300 GTS can be a really good value. If they have no or minimal damage (scratches) but not laid down, and they have accessories like windscreen and top case, you should try to go see it.

The GTS 250's are starting to get a bit long in the tooth, but with some modest maintenance (replacing fuel lines, HT lead, and careful check of wiring) they can deliver many reliable miles. You can find these for a bit less than the 300's.

Good luck with your search!