Modern Vespa

Hi,

I ask this question as a first time Vespa owner. Is it normal for the handle bars to vibrate a lot when still and your hands on the brakes. It's not bad like that when riding but just want to know if it's normal or should be looked at.

Yes it's normal for the rear brake

When the brakes are on hard, the brake fluid makes an almost solid connection between engine and body, and the engine vibrations pass through this brake line link. When the brakes are off the connection is through the suspension which damps the vibrations.

My understanding is that it is because the clutch is automatic. At tickover there is insufficient centrifugal force to get full engagement with the drive, however there is a still a very slight engagement. The vibration is the "fight" between the scooter/ riders weight and forward motion. Definitely normal.

My '20 GTS300 does a cute little 'thumper vibe' at idle. Surprisingly strong too, but disappears as soon as the bike's rolling.

I figured that it's a normal characteristic of the engine and accept it as such.

Nope!

Put the Vespa on the main stand, depending on the idling speed the rear wheel will turn slightly, in any case you can stop it with one finger. There is no more force on the rear wheel...

The reason for the changing vibrations is the frictional connection of the rear brake to the frame or the compressed brake fluid. Exactly as described above.