Modern Vespa

No problem for the engine. No issues.

Agreed. I do recommend earplugs!

That's the Okey Dokey I was waiting on! .

So, I just went out, popped off the exhaust(which I feel like an old pro at now having recently replaced my rear tire/refit it about 3 times!), took out the gasket/baffle and reinstalled the exhaust...

Man, I know opinions may differ, but THAT IS NOT TOO LOUD! It's PEEERFECT to me! I really love it. It's a robust putt putt and rev similar to a smaller Harley, but nothing like ....Chuck's barstool(for those of you in the know ). I live in an apt complex and to be honest, it just sounds about as loud as a large 4X4 truck revving. I really, really like it. My baffle/gasket was in pretty good shape, which may explain why it's such a distinct change in sound. I kept the gasket and if something arises or if someone tells me a specific "not having the gasket will cause damage here" sort of case...I don't think my baby is gonna purr anymore...it's gonna Roar!

I trust that was written in jest! A 40 mile one-off journey is just about OK, removing the collar altogether for much further than that may well upset the engine as the back-pressures will be all wrong. Plus there's nothing to stop the downpipe waggling about - expect a sheared exhaust stud fairly soon.

If the collar has been completely removed, you may have problems putting it back on. It will get damaged a little at least so won't last long. A new one should be put on ASAP.

Doh!...Well, I did enjoy my cruise around the neighborhood. I immediately noticed the back pressure issue cos low end acceleration went down a tad and also the 'hair dryer' blowing on my ankles was a bit unnerving. I was very careful in taking the collar off and considering that I've had it out/off for the tire changes several times, it's in pretty good shape. Still, it's such and easy part to access, I'll go ahead and put my order in for a new one while I carefully put the old one back on.

Ya know... I never really thought about it but I wonder what the hell happened to my graphite collar anyway. Do they just disintegrate and fall off the pipe somewhere between 5000 & 6000 miles? Is that even normal....?

There's not a trace of left it all.

I was lurking,,,,the exact same happened to me, but it was covered under warranty, I too like the sound without it

I just ordered one just in case and it cost me $40.00. It used to be $25.00, now Piaggio is getting greedy. GREEDY

Where from?

The same place that is selling the variator tool.
Here's the link: https://modernvespa.com/forum/topic49653

The dealer price in the UK is GBP13 just to get things in perspective. Anything much more than that is a rip-off. Find the correct Piaggio price from a dealer first...