OP
UTC

Lurker
BV 350
Joined: UTC
Posts: 2
Location: Canada
 
Lurker
BV 350
Joined: UTC
Posts: 2
Location: Canada
UTC quote
Hey guys and gals, I joined the forum to seek advice and info on Vespa and Piaggio scooters. More to the point, I am looking for info on making the ride on these scoots more manageable for shorter riders, like myself.
I have sat on a few models in showrooms, and none of the larger scooters have seats that do not require stepladders, if you know what I mean.
Perhaps, members here have made modifications in that regard. I am open to all ideas and suggestions before I spend my pension income on a lofty scooter that I can't safely ride.
Thanks.
@clampett avatar
UTC

Addicted
23 Primavera 150(Stitch) 25 BV 400(Xara)
Joined: UTC
Posts: 522
Location: Alabama
 
Addicted
@clampett avatar
23 Primavera 150(Stitch) 25 BV 400(Xara)
Joined: UTC
Posts: 522
Location: Alabama
UTC quote
You say short, but that is relative. I'm short at 5'8" & 29" inseam.
I can put my feet firmly on the ground, BUT I do slide a little forward where the seat is more narrow. Staying back makes the wide seat spread my legs and then I can't reach the ground.

If you are even shorter, there are lowering blocks for the rear that fit the bottom of the shocks and move them back just a small amount and lowers the scoot more.
@dooglas avatar
UTC

Veni, Vidi, Posti
GTS 300ABS, Buddy Kick 125
Joined: UTC
Posts: 13560
Location: Oregon City, OR
 
Veni, Vidi, Posti
@dooglas avatar
GTS 300ABS, Buddy Kick 125
Joined: UTC
Posts: 13560
Location: Oregon City, OR
UTC quote
I will probably be struck by lightening for this comment, but my partner is pretty short (5'3") and though she badly wanted to own a Modern Vespa - she just could not get comfortable riding one because of the seat height. Some of the common solutions such as a slightly lowered seat and thick sole boots just didn't work for her, she didn't feel comfortable with the geometry and positioning for the rider. Rather than give up, she tried other scooters and ultimately found that she could get comfortable and gain confidence with the height and positioning with Buddy scooters. She has been riding now for 18 years and has really enjoyed her experiences. I don't know know how tall you are or what it will take, but I urge you to try a range of different approaches until you find the one that works for you. Ride safe, have fun.
@coddy avatar
UTC

Molto Verboso
2021 GTS 300 Supersport, Triumph Tiger 800
Joined: UTC
Posts: 1251
Location: Oxfordshire, UK
 
Molto Verboso
@coddy avatar
2021 GTS 300 Supersport, Triumph Tiger 800
Joined: UTC
Posts: 1251
Location: Oxfordshire, UK
UTC quote
Probably best to look at the Sprint or Primavera models as although not shorter they will be lighter.

Two options of lowering is shaving the seat down but if you plan on long days in the saddle that will affect the comfort level or otherwise install an Aftermarket Shock Absorber Bracket.

There's a youtube vid on lowering these scoots by Robot from Scooterwest

OP
UTC

Lurker
BV 350
Joined: UTC
Posts: 2
Location: Canada
 
Lurker
BV 350
Joined: UTC
Posts: 2
Location: Canada
UTC quote
Thanks, guys for the replies.I have had several scooters in the past, and currently have a Honda Forza 300. I always wanted a Vespa, kid from the 60's. However, all the Vespas I've sat on are way too tall to inspire confidence. I am afraid of the scooter, standing still, at traffic lights or if I have to stop in an emergency.
I am now in the twilight zone, and want to fulfill that dream, but not if it means eating pavement or worse. I'll keep your suggestions in mind, and revisit some of my own research.
Ride safe and enjoy the wind.

Forgot to mention : my credentials as dictated by my genes:
5'11", 27" inseam, may go 28" with cowboy boots.
@metadaddy avatar
UTC

Hooked
Primrose: 1979 ET3; Roland: 1980 P200E; Scarlett: 1981 ET3
Joined: UTC
Posts: 322
Location: San Jose, CA
 
Hooked
@metadaddy avatar
Primrose: 1979 ET3; Roland: 1980 P200E; Scarlett: 1981 ET3
Joined: UTC
Posts: 322
Location: San Jose, CA
UTC quote
If you want to go old school, a smallframe should be quite manageable. I'm 5'10" and have had no problems with mine that weren't caused by wet, slippery roads!

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