Modern Vespa

Hi all,

On a very warm summers day over here in Norfolk UK, my GTS 125 decided to lay down and rest. The stand went through the hot tarmac doing about 600 pounds worth of damage to the scoot and all the chrome and back box. Decided to cut my losses and trade it for a 300. The dealer said it would cost him about 300 pounds to put it right. Me - a lot more. I stood the loss myself rather than make an insurance claim.

Well some weeks later I have done about 130 miles on the new white GTS. 300 super. The ride is superb. I really enjoy the low end torque.

Only gripes so far are that the handlebars are not completely straight, just a few degrees out but noticeable just 200yards after I left the dealership.

Got home and found the coolant was well below minimum. Topped that up. I had noticed the same on the 125 when it was new. The nearside front indicator has a piece of plastic rattling around in inside. Looks like the bulb holder is broken inside. Must have happened at build. Finally the paint job itself is disappointing. Lots of pimples which show up black on the white bike and even a scratch next to the pet carrier which has been badly touched up.
I have written this topic just to vent a little frustration and hope Vespa read these forums occasionally and take note of their poor quality control.
I will of course have these things put right at the first service-other than the paint job which I have to live with.

The 125 wasn't without it's problems. Broke down at 1200klms coil replaced. New starter required at 1500.

No one looks after their Vespas better than I.Never out in the rain and only ridden on great days. Cleaned and polished after every ride.
Am I mad..........

Bugsy

Hey Bugsy, I'm sorry to hear of your disappointments with your GTSie 300 Super. I had read here on the MV forum that handlebars could be off, thankfully mine is right on. Wierd, about the rattling piece of plastic you mention but a disappointment. The greatest disappointment is the paint, is there no way this can be covered under warranty? I would be sick!

On the other hand, I'm really glad you like the ride of the 300 Super. I agree with you the torque all through the range is very good. I was surprised by how strong it is in the top end as well. During my recent rain ride when it was very windy I did notice how much that effects "getting" that boost up a hill. Still, it is a strong machine. And I got a really fast color

I've just passed 900 km and have my first warranty service scheduled for next week. I guess I should keep my eyes and ears open for anything and everything.

Thanks for venting and detailing the problems. It helps us all know where to direct our attention.

By the way, welcome to the GTSie 300 Super Club!

Hi Bugsy,
I am also from Norfolk and have just picked up my GTS300 in white just last Friday from a well known dealer in Norwich!!
Have to say mine is fine but not checked coolant or oil levels as, well its new and didnt think about it but will do tommorrow, ta.
Only put 150k on the clock so resisting temptation to give it some away from lights, went from LX125 to 300 and already its wow!

Thanks for your replies.
I am sure things will be fine when things settle down. Just out of interest the 300 seems just as economical as the 125, guess it's not working so hard. It is far more relaxed to ride and feels more stable than the 125. Brakes are about the same but they may not have bedded in yet. Like you I am not gunning it yet but even now enjoying some exhilarating acceleration from a standing start and constant variation in speeds to keep her sweet for the running in period.
Definitely worth checking your coolant. Put money on it needs topping.

Bugsy

Handlebars are easily straightened. You can do it yourself.

If they were straight upon leaving the dealership and BECAME out of alignment I would attempt to adjust them immediately, because that may mean the are not mounted to proper torque spec (and may become looser while riding).

If they just CAME out of alignment that's no biggy, as long as they are tight enough you will be safe riding. Either way, though, easily adjusted if you have a mind to it.

I think the economy could be around the same as my LX but early days yet as only filled her up once and not really riding like I like to !! forgot about coolant check so ta for the reminder will leave myself a note LOL, suspension def a whole lot better as the potholesI felt b4 I dont really notice now! its nice to have that extra power when needed, agree am more confident riding and respect her more than LX, enjoy