Modern Vespa

Hi Everyone

I failed my MOST test yesterday on my Vespa, which I am ok about because my purpose was more to learn what the course looks and felt like.

Does anyone have any tips for the MOST riding a vespa? Im good on the fast stop and obstacle avoidance, it's more the cone weave, tight right turn and the U turn.

ironically my tester said my road riding was great!

Thanks
Kathy

hmm, maybe practice slow speed (even in a straight line) would help for the lower speeds needed for the cone weave and u-turn. make it a challenge to see how slow (with a steady speed) you can ride for at least 10m or something like that

For the best slow and very slow control on a CVT scooter, use a constant tad of rear brake (NOT front) while you modulate speed with the throttle. This is not kind on the rear brake or clutch over extended periods, but it's fine for a cone weave (and just about OK for the California lollipop test).

In particular for the cone weave, aim to cross in between in the first half of the gap - as soon as you start crossing in the further half you're pretty certain to bugger it up unless you're really experienced.

As always, practice, practice. Low speed control is the best training for riding in all conditions.

Think on this - as stated by a UK test examiner (paraphrased).

"If you can push the bike in a tight U-turn, you should be able to ride it just as tightly".

So a U-turn well within the width of two parking spaces in a car park is your goal. Car parks are great for practice!

Thais is really helpful information thankyou!

Agree with jimc here. Dragging the rear brake (just a bit) does wonders for low-speed control.

As I've got older, keeping a bit of throttle on and dragging the brake round tight islands (traffic circles) has become the norm (I used to drop off the revs and just use momentum to get me round).

This is only the case in countries that drive on the left, I still fly round islands in France USA etc