Modern Vespa

Just purchased a new bike, am very concerned with the very poor lighting in rear of bike. Want a system that can be much better seen by motorists. Recently a girl was killed on a cycle, the drver said they could not see the bikes rear lights. Your comments and suggestions much appreciated.

I also would like to chrome plate the front wheels, any comments, know of any good economical platers? (Chicago area or Midwest)

Finally his forum has been a great help in selecting my bike.

welcome to MV.
about the rear lites the driver said they couldn't see. the M/C got hit from behind the driver of the car was not paying attention period. probably on a cell or texting.
Anyway there are a lot of aftermarket lites that you can install, leds and the like for a little of nothing. Just do some searching on google and see wat interests you and let us know what you find. Also talk to your dealer he may have some ideas as well.

Welcome to the club! As far as the wheels go, pm a guy named antdaddy. He had his done a month or so ago and they look good. He might be able to give you some advice.

John G, welcome to a really neat forum where you will find lots of helpful folks, and sometimes even useful answers!

I suggest you look to add headlight and tail light modulators and additional lights to your ride to help make it more conspicuous. There are many aftermarket products. I used Signal Dynamics myself. If you add a topbox be sure to add the extra brake light too. And what you wear really counts as well, remember the retroreflective jackets and vests and bright colors. They make a difference!

Ride safe and have fun and see you around MV.

Welcome to our MP3 world John! I agree....more lights the better...ride safe, always

John, welcome to MV!

You might want to follow this current thread about switching to LED signal and brake lights.  Although it started with posts about the 500 with its different body and lights, it seems likely to include 250/400 info as it develops.

FWIW, I ride a 250 with stock lighting all around, and anyone who's ever followed me anywhere--day or night--has reported that my tail, brake, and signal lights all show up and get their attention just fine.  (Yes, I make a habit of asking.)

Of course, my survey sample has a selection bias toward people who are already paying attention to me, and I am nevertheless considering an LED conversion anyway.  Make of it what you will, and happy riding!

I second the use of Signal Dynamics for the headlight and brakelight. Some of the other brands stop working when the voltage on the scot goes up (ie Coimagination). Also look at Radiantz for a flexible led light strip. They have super brite ones that will mount on the bracket below the top case if you have one. Placing it there won't require disconnecting wiring to remove the top case. They are made in many sizes and they will make custom sizes. AND ADD THE STEBEL HORN!!!!!!

Add as many lights as you are comfortable with; every bit helps. But know that even with searchlights on the back, someone eventually will not see you.

I am all in favor of enhancing visibility - I wear hi-viz jackets and am in the process of making the bike more visible.

However...

There are still drivers who just aren't paying attention. For example, yesterday a driver cut into my lane ahead of me on the freeway almost hitting me, and another pulled into my path from a side street. Had I not been anticipating just such moves there would have been collisions and injuries.

Oh, I was driving my Isuzu Trooper at the time.

Be careful out there. If they're not looking, they can't see you no matter what you're riding (or driving).

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