Modern Vespa

I am trying to decide if this scooter would be a good fit for me. I am 5'4. I have been riding a Vino 125 for the last 4 years and my husband thinks I am ready to upgrade to a larger scooter. We saw this scooter demoed on Jay Leno's Garage and it looked like it would be a little more stable than a 2 wheel scooter. I also found out that you can make this scooter into a trike with an add on kit. We are scheduled to do test drives on the 250 and 400 on Saturday and I would like all of your opinions if this scooter would be ok for someone as short as I am. Also, if I do purchase one, I think I would put a little taller windshield on and which one do you guys suggest and where to buy. One other thing. Do any of you have alarms on your scooters? I installed one on my Vino because I was hearing last year that scooters were being picked up right and left for awhile (I guess the inflated gas prices had something to do with that). The alarm I picked up for it is VERY loud and would definitely get someones attention. Sorry for the long post but I had many questions and concerns before getting on this larger scooter. Thanks for your time to read this.

Before you do anything else go for a test ride, either one will do, just make sure it fits your requirements before you buy. I bought my MP3 500 through your local dealer and it seemed they were fair enough so you should be right at home if you go with them.

Alarms and windshields will come later, don't worry about them. If you're interested in a new '07 there's one not too far away from your location. Just a thought.

LL75

Where would the new 07 be located????

I'm a 250 owner so will weigh in with my thoughts based on that perspective.

To be real honest, at 5'4", you may have some trouble. Get thick-soled boots and if you're really feeling adventurous, go to a professional and have some of the foam of your seat shaved down. There are threads on here (with pictures, even!) of folks who successfully did that. I have a short friend (can't remember if she's 5'5" but I'm 5'7" and taller than her) who got thick/high-soled boots and found it better. I'll only say one thing about triking an MP3; that kills what makes the MP3 special and different from all other 3-wheeled bikes (both Harleys and CanAm Spyders, etc.) and kills the fantastic maneuverability you can have with it. If that doesn't bother you at all, you can still have buckets of fun riding around and will still be openly welcomed here. We already have a member with a trike-kitted MP3 and she's both friendly and knowledgable and loves to share ideas. She doesn't post as much but look for posts by Smrf, I think it is, and read her excellent thoughts and ideas from the world of a triked MP3.

On to the practical advice on machine differences between 250 and 400. Obviously, the 250 will be cheaper, but if you can afford a 250, it may not cost that much more to upgrade to the 400, if that's your interest. I've heard tell that the extra engine weight of the 400 compared to the 250 means the extra cc's are being used more to haul the heavier engine than to give you a real upgrade in output, with some saying your final actual gains after figuring in engine weight is only 10cc's. I couldn't tell you if that's true or not, but is something to think about. (400 owners, jump in and set me straight on this!) The one thing that is true is you lose a lot of under-seat space due to making room for the larger engine in the same body as a smaller engine normally resides. That may not be a deal breaker for you, but it certainly gave me pause for thought. So other than less under-seat space, whatever price differences your dealer may set between the two, and possibly fewer engine gains than you'd think you should get for the size, they're pretty much the same. Am I right, 400 owners?

There's only one reason I would tell you not to get the 500, if you ever considered it, at least the 2007-2009/ Fuoco design models; as I said, I'm 5'7" and to ride my husband's 500, I have to tippy-toe it to stay upright. I'm not completely flat-footed on my 250, but I'm truly teetering on tippy-toes on the 500. While remaining seated, even leaning forward on the front edge of the seat, I don't think you'll even touch the ground. You may even have to dismount between the handlebars and seat while straddling the 500 to be able to touch ground. It's a TALL bike, which is great for tall guys but harder for shorter people.

Because I've never ridden a 400, I'd hate to tell you to only pick the 250, just because it's the model I know and love. I say do as has been said; take BOTH for a test ride and talk to any 250/400 owners you can get a hold of. Most importantly, you can never ask too many questions. This is an expensive decision, and if you make a poor decision, can not only affect your enjoyment but your safety. So don't be worried about asking questions. On Modern Vespa, it's our pleasure to answer them. Your dealer? It's his job to answer them. Also, Google is your friend, as well as YouTube. You'll find some GREAT videos of all the different models.

I hope this has been of any use to you, and welcome to MV!

200% agree to test ride, or at least sit on one and feel the weight. If triking it is definite, why buy a complicated front end then? Any other two wheel scooter triked may even turn better. Less side drag of two wheels, with one wheel. Height is likely a deal breaker here. Triked it would be ok, but for all this money, bet u could find a used real trike. Guessing at $10-11 k for new scooter after taxes etc, add $3-5k for triking, and possible $16k could get you a used Can am or similiar. New is $20k. you and the hubbly could drive it! Or find a used scooter that fits you. Lots of choices, and hard decisions to make. MP3 500 is top heavy, and do not know it the 250/400 is much lighter on the top end myself. best of luck, and you are welcome here anytime.

Just a quick note re the height of the 500. I am 5'4" and I wear Doc Marten boots (thick soles with the sole coming up over the front of the toes). When I first got my bike I could only get my toes firmly on the floor, the extra grip on the toes was very helpful. Now, after 12 months the seat has bedded down and I can get best part of my feet on the ground.

I had the 400 before I bought the 500 and found the height similar, again it bedded down after a few months.

Definitely do a test ride.

If you are thinking trike, buy something else. A lot of money and complexity in a front end that is negated with a trike kit.

Lots of threads here about shorter members cutting seat down and happy with results.

For a 250 or 400 the Fabbri is a great screen. 2 heights ad medium probably tall enough for you.

Storage on 400 is only slightly less than 250 and much more than 500.

If you are comfortable with used there have been some great buys available. Many dealers overstocked expecting previous fast sales to continue and will be willing to to negotiate price and options. Ask them to throw in first service.

Several threads on preferences of 250 vs 400. Boils down to where / how you plan to ride. Both are great rides. 250 a bit more nimble and more fun around town. 400 power welcome if lots of highway miles. On a twisty road both generate grins that reach wide enough to push ears aside.

what type of riding are you planning on ? just around town and mostly less than 50-100 mile runs, or longer trips lots of up and down hills that sort of thing. Why would you want a trike kit for it? don't worry about accessories as they can come later, there are a couple of choices for shields. The alarm is a 50/50 thing as the mp3's are not as light and easy to pick up for thieves. piaggio makes one that is a plug and play just for this scoot.

In addition to the MP3 250, you should test-ride a BV 250 or BV 500. Less expensive than an equivalent-cc MP3, lower seat height, lower center of gravity, higher power-to-weight ratio. And if you trike it, it won't be a waste of the MP3's expensive, complex, and somewhat heavy dual-wheel front end.

(Don't get me wrong: I love my MP3, but that doesn't necessarily make it the best choice for everybody.)

Chiming in!

I currently ride an MP3 400. I previously owned an MP3 250. The 250 is lighter. The engine is smoother. The 400 is heavier, significantly more powerful*, and there is somewhat less storage under the seat (though I can still get my XL full face helmet in with no problem).

IMO, which one you choose will depend on where you are riding it. Around the city, the 250 is more than adequate. If you ride on the freeway much, the 250 barely makes it - the 400 is much better.

*At 538 lbs vs. 450 lbs, the 400 is 20% heavier. At 34 hp vs. 22.5 hp, the 400 is 50% more powerful. I can tell you from having owned both that it is a significant difference.

Thanks for all your comments. I plan on riding the scooter around town and maybe some day trips to our local lakes or state parks. I live in Redding CA so it's not very far to two lakes or to Lassen State Park. I am definitely test driving the two, 250 and 400 this Saturday so I will see if either one is fit for me. Who knows, I may just decide to stick with my vino, won't know until I get there. I am having to test drive out of town because our local dealer just sold his last 250 and only had a 500. Sat on that one and it was not a good fit for me.

It's on consignment at Coos ATV and Cycle, Coos Bay, OR. Tel 541 269-6686. They've had it for a year or so and have dropped the price from $5,900 to $3,500. I don't know if they've had any offers on it but I can tell you Coos Bay, Oregon is not scooter central for planet earth so they may consider lower offers. It has under 100 miles on it, light metalic blue, no mods as near as I can tell.

I sat on it a couple of days ago and it looked like it was still OK, no apparent dings, etc. It's starting to look a bit grubby though as if no one's taking care of it. I toyed with the idea of offering them $2,500 for it but with my luck they'd take it and then I'd have to find room for it; not something I want to deal with.

This was the 1st MP3 I saw and the one that brought my attention to the make. I bought my MP3 500 from RYS in Redding last October and have enjoyed it a lot but if this MP3 250 had been priced as it is now I'd probably own it.

LL75

thats a good price on a 250

That's a 5 hour trip according to google maps. It would great if we were on vacation and could make a few days of it but that's not going to happen for awhile. I will go to Elk Grove (we're going there for a graduation party anyhow) and try it out and see how it goes. Thanks for all of your suggestions.
Another thing I found out is that Corbin make a seat for the 250 & 400 that will bring the seat height down to what I am riding now.

Mary, goodluck and have fun testing both MP3's! If you're interested in the 250 size, I have one ForSale on the FS forum Now....a 2007 SkyBlue with only 179 miles on it, a custom lowered/narrowed seat and fabbri medium screen. I am just 5'4 myself and can flatfoot my 250 with healed boots (say...2" hgt). You may want to search forum on topic: "boots" to see/read about members reviews/opinions. Feel free to PM me with any questions (0: Sky

I test drove both the 250 and the 400 and I ended up getting the 400. There wasn't too much difference in the bike except for peppiness and weight. I know it is heavy but I think I deal with it after getting use to it.

I wish the myskymizer one had been closer. I probably would have chosen that one instead.

We all wish she was closer!

Congrats on your new scoot. Let us know what you think of it after putting a few miles on it.

Michael...very nice of you....gave me chill bumps. Sure wish I could meet you too! Someday perhaps?

Mary.....I too wish you/I were closer....you would have loved, loved MySky, and I would have got to meet another Gal member!
Very happy for you and your 400 purchase....please ride safe and with All the Gear (on!)

Congratulations Mary!!!!

From another new (2007 250) owner and fan from the other coast.

Moe

Hmmm...I think Mary needs to post a pic of her new scoot......

Smrf, bet Mary's modding 400 up (0;

I just put the trunk on that I got from one of the members on this forum. I am going to take it to a painter to have it color matched to my scoot. The next thing I will get is a windshield and then I will be finished (I think). I will post pictures when I am finished.

Now that I have it the way I want it I just have to be able to ride it properly. I know, no tilt lock until I get use to it. My seat shaving has given me about another inch closer to the ground so it's much better when I put my feet down.

I would highly recommend the.Piaggio medium screen. Gives excellent coverage of hands and torso. I eventually cut it down 6 inches once I worked out what would be an ideal compromise of coverage and visibility. An easy mod.

Great news. I actually got out of my driveway yesterday without falling over. My husband and I went on a nice ride to our local dam. Once I felt the balance take over I was just fine. The seat shaving really helped and I can get more of my foot on the ground which means more stability. It is still a little shocking when you take the bike off of lock so I will have to work on that.

when taking the scoot off lock try this. stradle the scoot through the middle don't sit on the seat. stand straight up both feet firmly on the ground and both hands on the bars. then undo the tilt lock. this should help in feeling the bike suspension release shcok you are experiencing. Now you have the full weight of the scoot and you can sit and keep your feet on the ground like on the Vino.

If not on the seat it takes a double bump of switch to unlock.

thanks for catching my back on that one. I forgot to add the double click on the switch.

Now I understand why it sometimes takes two bumps on the tilt lock to unlock it. It's when you aren't on the seat, right???

Yup. Also, the throttle won't work when the seat sensor isn't activated (ie. you're not sitting there) so if you jump onto the seat and pull open the throttle it may chugchugchugchug for a second until the sensor realises you're there.

Worrying the first time it happens and you don't know what it is! Feels like the scoot's about to explode

Throttle will work if tilt lock is off even if not on the seat. The seat sensor inhibits unlocking the tilt with only one bump of switch and tilt lock must be released before throttle will give enough gas to engage the clutch.

Ah yeah true. I just know I have stood up at a junction (must have put on the tilt lock) then leapt back into the seat when the lights changed and threw back the throttle to be rewarded with quite a violent CHUGCHUGCHUG until the seat sensor realised I was back in the saddle.

Most disturbing

Congrats Mary and welcome to the forum. I have a tall fabbri windscreen on my 250 and love it. I am 6'2" and the tall fabbri is slightly tall for me so you may do better with the medium screen. Easy to install and have been up to 79 mph with no problems. I purchased mine from PJ's Parts and would recommend them if you decide to go this way. http://www.pjsparts.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=74&osCsid=68de7f380408dd0ada49b45e4958510c

Here is a wiki I did for installation MP3: Installing a Fabbri Windscreen 250 and 400 models

Enjoy your new ride and keep the dirty side down.

+1 on Fabbri. I also am 6'2" and had my tall cut down a bit. Over 55,000 miles on the screen on 2 different MP3s.

+2 on the Fabbri and +1 on PJ's parts. Love my windscreen. I am 5'11" and have not trimmed it at all. So far it hasn't bothered me at all that the windscreen is a little higher than my head. I have a 250 and the tilt lock thing was a little weird at first. I have had my scoot for a couple of months now and the tilt lock is old hat. I don't use it at stop lights, I just put my feet down. I have tried it but it feels like I will fall over when I take off.
I absolutely love my scoot! Welcome to the club!

Hi Mary and Moebobby, welcome and congratulations!

Many members here will agree with me that the one mod you don't want too long for is improving the horn. If the trike was used, it's entirely possible that the former owner had already done this. If so, you'll know it when you push the button - the stock horn is subjectively maybe three times as loud as the tilt lock signal. Otherwise, lots of posts here about this important safety improvement. If you're not heading out to the freeway, not as critically important, but don't jump onto the Interstate and duke it out with 18-wheelers with just the stock meep-meeper (I'm figuring that's a bit off in the future for you in any event).

Holly, have you been out on the freeway yet? What was your impression of riding at highway speed?

My scoot was a brand new 2009 so I think I have the loud horn. I don't plan on riding very much (if at all) on the freeway. There are plenty of places around here that you can go and not have to go freeway speed.

The tilt lock thing did make me fall over, twice. Both times I tried to give it throttle with the lock on and it lagged too much and I lost my balance. Now I stand on both feet and prepare myself when I take the tilt lock off and then give it throttle and am on my way. When I stop at lights or stop signs I just put my feet down and all is well.

All of your suggestions have really helped and I am much more confident. My husband even commented how proud he was of me when we did go out the other day and we went on a curvy road and I did very well.

good to gear its working out better for you. every day is a practice day. and just cause you learn something new when riding don't forget about the stuff you know and need to practice just to keep sharp.

I think you made a good choice, Yes, MP3 400! Getting used to the tilt lock will take some time; listen to the engine as it winds down and comes to an idle, this will be an audible sign as to when to switch the tilt lock ON. get used to "hearing the sound" and the speed you are going "visually" (do not look at the speedo) and you will then know instinctively when to switch the tilt lock on; "use the force" listen carefully and soon you will be a pro! People will see you come to a stop and wonder how you did that so well! Practice my girl, practice; despite your clumsiness at first, you will get better, or I'll take your bike off your hands at no charge to you!

I don't think my husband would part with this bike. He enjoys riding it too. Even though he has the Burgman, he still enjoys getting on the 400 every once in a while. It is a lot smoother than his and of course the turning is incredible.

I will keep at it until I get it right. I do not give up easily. It took me a while to get use to my little Vino so I know it will take some time to get use to this beast.