Modern Vespa

are you supposed to change the preload on the shocks when riding on dirt roads? i always ride on the 3rd setting and the scooter feels like it's gonna break apart, so i would assume a soft suspension would be ideal for this kind of terrain

Stand up on dirt roads when necessary, your legs are very good shock absorbers, and it helps reduce the stress on the bike frame.

ouch at 3 you are getting a pretty hard ride all the time!!! Unless you are above 250lbs.... I ride with mine at 1, unless I am loading her down (for a trip) or riding two up..

I just avoid dirt myself but the best setting is highly subjective. I've tried all 4 and found I liked 3 the best. I'm only 155lbs. but I like it stiff

i tried riding on the 1st and 2nd setting but the scooter felt really unstable on corners. i switched to 3rd and i can drag my knee

Jim makes a good point. Along with that, I might suggest you reduce your speed when traveling over rocky, or rutted roads. As to the suspension, the adjustments you are referring to only adjust ride height, not spring rate.

Almost true - but it does provide some preload to the (progressive) springs. It does sweet FA to the rebound though.