Five years is a long time for a scooter battery. I read on the ModernVespa forum about people getting long service but my experience has been that batteries die suddenly – cars and scooters. So I just change them periodically. And if I am stranded with a dead battery in the Vespa I can easily jump start the scooter from a car. I’ve done that a couple times.

Thanks for reply about battery conditioners. Maybe I’m pushing my luck trying to extend the battery to five years. I’d hate to be caught miles from home minus power. Think I’ll get a new battery next week.

A 45 minute ride in the low 20s is work, especially if you don’t have the right riding gear. I’m with you hoping for some moderation in the cold weather. I’m not ready for a long deep freeze!

The Battery Tender I use is similar though isn’t a pulse charger that balances the cells. Still, it works well. I was talking to a fellow today who says he just puts a new battery in every year. Not in a Vespa but in his Yamaha Vino. I change my battery in the Vespa every two to three years.

I thoughtful photographer can make any place picturesque!

And no, no face shield or googles. Crazy right??

Conch: Some years ago I read a post of yours, or maybe a comment, pretty much insisting that once the temperature gets to 60 riding is damn nonsense. Now, every time I see the indicator light on the Vespa show 60 I think of you.

At our latitude, 63F is tropical, 22 is bracing.

I hate surrendering to the car though. Feels so final…

I do use a trickle charger — a Battery Tender. Have it on my daughter’s Yamaha Vino at the moment but will be returning her scooter shortly and will put the charger on mine. Since I’m riding almost every day it’s not a problem yet.