Modern Vespa

Hi,
I'm would like to buy a Vespa but i'm really not sure whether I should go for the LX 50 or LX 125.... everyone seems to tell me to go for the 125 version...but wanted to check out what u think

Secondly.... do you know whether the post July 2009 version of the LX 125 also has the re-look additions (e.g. larger front headlamp, crome on front grid and on top of front mudguard etc)... i saw these on the LX 50... so not sure the same applies to the LX125

Thirdly, what about the winter months... will i have problems starting the scooter in the morning??? i won't be able to garage it at night (and in Jan/Feb it can go below 0 during the night)... or i shouldn't really worry about that???

+ is a wind shield really necessary???

Tks a million

A wind screen will definately help in the colder months. It'll keep more of the cold moving air off of you, so you can retain your own heat better.

There is a chance you may have a bit of trouble starting if it gets too cold, but it shouldn't be that hard, and shouldn't generally be anything to worry about. I have trouble starting myself up during cold mornings. Though with the fuel-injection on the 250, I've only had trouble starting the Vespa once (that was when I left it outside at work, and it got covered in snow for 8 hours).

I would definately recommend a lap apron. I have the Vespa-branded one for my GTV, and wouldn't scoot in cold weather without it. It's waterproof, and keeps your legs from freezing. Keeps your seat dry, doesn't affect being able to put your feet down, and doesn't flap around unless you're doing highway speeds with a crosswind. Most useful accessory on my scooter, I'd say.

Also, if the weather gets bad enough, don't feel you have to go out on the scoot. Better safe than sorry, and slippery cold roads can make you go down quicker than you realize.

your hands will probally get the coldest so what i have had good luck with is mittins that are windproof. even 100$ gloves that have individual fingers get cold quick. so i would go with mittins first off. and if you have a motorcycle you need to shift then lobster mitts (they have a thumb and put your fingers two by two). they also have gloves with batterys that stay heated, i heard thoes work great and they make a jaket like that too. but i would go with a windscreen or a full face helmit, a thick jaket and one underneeth it, and two paris of pants and wool socks in boots if the ride is over 1/2 hour.

Thanks for your tips...

I was thinking of getting the LX 125 (the model without fuel injection)... do you think not having fuel injection will be a problem to start during the cold months??

and do you know anything about the new look on the LX125? is it similar to the new look on the LX50?

tks

The carbed version (which I have) had a pre-heater that could help with cold weather starting. The addition of fuel-injection will be a definite help when starting on a cold morning.

If it was me, I'd go with the fuel-injected model because it should also help reduce (stop) that momentary lag you'll experience when accelerating from a stop.

You should also invest in a battery tender (or similar device) for when you are letting the scooter sit.

about 1:
This is a country law and somehow a money (tax) decision.
Sometimes a 'moped' 50cc is better suited for a specific route.
But in general the 125 is in favour...

about 2:
both share the same revamps

about 3:
Large screen is fab on commuting, less on the 'outdoor riding feeling'
Starting would not need to be a problem.

Icy roads however can be a problem:

I was amazed at how easily my LX50 (2T) starts even at -2C here in the freezing New Zealand morning. I read that 2T engines start easier but after reading what you wrote I wonder if the LX50 have that pre-heater as well?

Thanks everyone for your tips.... this forum site is really great.
I ordered the LX125 yesterday and can't wait to ride it . Unfortunately it won't be delivered before end of August (holiday season in Italy )

I have one last question for Sakkerju: I really like the 'cutt-off' screen that you put on the Donna Rossa... how did you manage to do that?