Comments on: Transition: Vespa to Triumph

By: Steve Williams

Steve Williams — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 04:27:00 +0000

Harv: You're right, the Vespa is everything I need. An amazing little machine.

scgt: The MP3 500 is definitely on my someday wish list. Glad to hear your transition has been seamless.

heinz & frenchie: Not to fear. I have no plans to abandon the Vespa. You'll be seeing more of it in the weeks ahead.

By: Steve Williams

Steve Williams — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 02:18:00 +0000

baron: Photography is my life. Riding is trying to push it aside a bit though...

The Vespa is a quick and nimble machine and is just a perfect photography platform. Ansel Adams had his International Travelall. I have a Vespa. Unfortunately I don't have the photographic juice that Ansel did...

murphy's law: I think we are pretty adaptable. The move to a bigger machine will eventually become a second nature experience. It changes some things but physically we can handle it. Our brains eventually convince us that even the heavy bikes are nimble things.

irondad: If I found something more suited to my temperament and needs I would not hesitate to change. Oh, and money is an issue. But right now I am pleased where I am.

I understand the difference from places near and far. I wonder when the opportunity arises and I have time to travel if I will remain on a scooter.

paul martin: thanks for your kind words. I continue to find enjoyment and answers in riding, writing, and making pictures.

evan: Hmmm, someone is watching me???

By: Heinz & Frenchie

Heinz & Frenchie — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 17:42:00 +0000

When we first viewed the photo of you and motorcycle we were stunned and thought you had abandoned us Vespa Folks. What a relief to read on and find it was not yours. Great photos as usual, we never tire of seeing the Grey Vespa and you all decked out in Black and Yellow was not bad either. Wishing you good riding weather for awhile more.

By: American Scooterist Blog

American Scooterist Blog — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 17:36:00 +0000

I don't think you could change to motorcycles anymore. After the GTS one begins to realize that while motorcycles have some...features, they are easy to equal and surpass on many scooters.

There is the pace. Not necessarily riding to get somewhere. The LX150. There is the need to get somewhere. The GT200,250 and Supers. Capable of keeping up with all but the most insane traffic.

The Vespas are everything I ever wanted in the ride. I bet the same can be said of you.

But its nice to be reacquainted with the differences now and again.

Harv

By: scgt

scgt — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 00:31:00 +0000

Great shots, Steve! Glad to hear about your little "detour" from the GTS.

Recently, I made a move up from a 50cc Aprilia to a Piaggio mp3 500. To my surprise, the transition was quite effortless, in spite of the huge displacement jump and the extra wheel. Still just a scooter and I'm loving it!

Peace!--Lorenzo

By: Evan "JabberWokky" E.

Evan "JabberWokky" E. — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 14:19:00 +0000

And the testing is on-going. Less than five minutes ago, I saw a distinctive black and yellow jacket and silver helmet paired with a large motorcycle carefully round the corner onto a major road.

No, I don't know Steve, but I happen to live in the same town (I found this blog while looking for a scooter group in the area). My wife works a couple buildings over from him and I've seen him coming and going now and then over the years. It was amusing to look over to my left, watch him ride past and think, "Oh, he's still got the Triumph".

By: Paul D. Martin

Paul D. Martin — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 02:59:00 +0000

After 3 plus decades of riding large motorcycles I graduated to scootering and seldom look back. Once in a while I ride my son’s Sportster and upon returning to my ride I am assured of the wisdom of my decision. As an amateur photographer (for my own amusement), I am inspired by your writing and photos. Thank you for the time and thought that goes into your blog.

By: irondad

irondad — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 02:57:00 +0000

I read the comments. Readers afraid you will change mounts. Readers hoping you will change mounts. Interesting.

The traveller chooses their destination. Having thus chosen, only then is the means of transport considered. How best to get where the heart yearns?

You seek beauty and grace in the world nearby. I seek adventure in far off places. What serves you well does not serve me. Yet what we each have carries us toward our own visions splendidly.

Balance and harmony have been achieved.

By: murphy's law

murphy's law — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 05:07:00 +0000

Nice pics. I love my scooter, its a Honda Ruckus. This weekend I'm making the transition to a '79 Yamaha sr500. Hopefully the switch will be smoother since its still a single four stroke. The heavier weight may take some getting used to.

Thanks for the insight.

By: Baron's Life

Baron's Life — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 22:01:00 +0000

Steve,
Great pictures man…ever thought of becoming a photographer?
First, when I read your headline, I got scared that you were giving up the Vespa…but learned to relax as I read further down the column…lol Good post.
I agree with your appraisal quick u-turn, stops, the whole nine yards…you’re bang on… Two different machines, two different rides.
Take care