Modern Vespa

Hello - 2022 Vespa GTS. 17K miles. Suddenly last few days when I hit the start button about 50% of the time it doesn't start first try - then second try always - rides fine no issues - is this normal?

I gather you are not turning the ignition off between those two presses?

Sounds like a switch or button failing. Which? Maybe brake light switch (at the lever) or starter button (or possibly kill switch but am doubting because two presses of the starter should not be related to the kill).

I'd start investigating by using the other brake lever when pressing the starter button.

I have used the other lever……Happens sometimes…..

It doesn't start and run, or it doesn't crank with the starter?

We had a similar error description a few weeks ago:
2024GTV : cold start trouble : I give up 😭

Every now and then, I pull in the brake and press the starter and absolutely nothing happens......BUT then immediately when I try it again it starts and runs perfectly fine.....

Just completed a 40 mile trip into work - no issues……

When it does that, don't let go of the brake lever - check the brake light comes on! If they are the same as the earlier ones, those switches can get dirty. They are not the usual sort of push to make type of switch, but push to break.

Ok! ......and what if the brake light does not come on? ...... and what if it does?

If it does not - replace brake switch! If it does, replace starter button switch!

to add to JimC , always order 2-3 of the brake light switches and always carry 1 as a spare. they are cheap and easy to replace. tech tip when installing a new one spray some dielectric grease into the contact area inside, this will help increase the longevity of them.

I have had that happen with my new (ish) 2023 300 super.
Sometimes kicking the side stand helps. (The safety switch that prevents the bike from starting when the sidestand is down sticks occasionally.)

Also, it takes a few seconds after you turn on the ignition for the fuel pump to build up pressure, so it's not quite ready to start yet.
Wait until the little whining noise stops, and then press the starter.

If none of these tricks help, then check into the suggestions other members have made above; it could be a little more serious than what I have suggested.
Sometimes it's easy!

Hello!!!

I have ridden 300 miles since this original post.......it has not happened again since the time I wrote it......I have been waiting 5 seconds or so after the whirl of the fuel pump to try to start perhaps that was the problem. Also, I pull the brake lever in as tight as I can......perhaps that was the issue. Who knows. its all good now.