Modern Vespa

Hello,

I am a scooter novice, didn't know much about scooters last summer but decided to buy one. I recently had moved into a city, and thought it would be a great way to get around. I bought my first scooter from a listing on craigslist. Turned out to be a Chinese made scooter that was my worst nightmare.

Well this summer I did more research, and I am ready to invest more into the purchase this time. This is where your help and expertise comes in handy.

2003 Vespa ETC2 VS. 2011 Piaggio Fly 50

The Vespa has 4 miles on it. Its practically brand new mileage wise. The price is not an issue because they will work out to be about the same.

Which one would you get and why?

Thank you,

*****update*****
I really appreciate the feedback!

I live in washington, DC...there aren't many hilly areas and or highways. I live about 2 miles from my work.

Does anyone see any major issues "con's" to getting an older Vespa? Is the Fly 50 a quality product? Does the Fly 50 have a restrict valve or bolt that I can remove to get to the same MPH as the Vespa?

I realize this is a forum of Vespa enthusiast but just looking for more info to help make an informed decision.

Thank you again guys.

I bought a Vespa because I've always wanted one, I really like the design, I love the performance and I'm thoroughly pleased with my choice. I rented an LX50 for a day before actually purchasing. I ended up buying a used LX150 with 1,300 miles on it. I just know that I'm going to want to graduate to a GT eventually. Sorry I can't offer any insight on the Fly. I recommend that you try out both and get the one that feels best for you in terms of fit, handling, etc.

buy the fly dude

Both are great machines... but.....

On the Fly you're riding a scooter.

On a Vespa you're riding a Vespa.

See the difference?

Neither.

Unless there are legal reasons why you cant ride anything bigger than a 50, you'd be daft not to get a 125 or 150.

I'd have to go with the Doc on this one... You can find some sweet deals on 150's and even 250's and 300's (on here, or on CraigsList), so unless there is a legal reason for you not to be on a bigger scoot, I'd go up to at least a 125. You're going to want to pretty soon in any case, even if you buy the 50.

By the Vespa because it makes you more attractive to women.

It worked for me.

Bill X

Don't know the specific needs hence I would say that all of the prior posts are good.

I've have a GT200 and have experienced both of the below and just my thoughts:

I would suggest considering looking into a 125cc or 150cc...just on the chance that you may want to have a little more power to adequately take on hilly terrain and or the highway (not freeway).

You could also consider...if you can secure a Vespa 50cc two stroke (ET2) and have it kitted to a 70cc...added cost but it will also serve a fun project and allow you to really get to know your scoot.

As it was noted above...there are some fine deals out there...you can check the "Wanted / For Sale" forum on MV.

Good Luck!

ET2

The ET is 2-stroke and will be faster than the Fly. That makes a biiiig difference for a 49cc scoogter. Unless they're putting the new 4-valve 49cc 4-stroke engines in the new Flys, the 49cc Fly is dangerously slow. (I've ridden both)

+1 - of the 2 the only thing which makes the ET2 inferior is it will get worse gas mileage. But it's a better ride than a 4T 50

i think i'm leaning towards the ET2.

the scooter was kept in a heated basement. not a shed or anything outdoors. the only mileage that was put on it came in the last two weeks when it was being prepped to be sold. new battery, purged the fuel lines just in case any old fuel was in it.

are there any other questions you suggest i ask before making the purchase?

If its been standing for a long time, also check the brakes...

thats how you did it ........ it dont work for me .. i have to take the lid off

Test-ride it before you buy it, or at least have the owner ride it with you on the back.