Service Time for Vespa at Kissell Motorsports
The Vespa at Kissell Motorsports for its annual Pennsylvania Safety Inspection.
As the odometer ticks toward 35 thousand miles on the 11 year-old scooter I’ve been thinking about what to expect for the future. The new thumps heard and felt when encountering a rough spot on the road suggest new shock absorbers aren’t far off if not overdue. Another belt change is just around the corners and some aging hoses on the engine call out for replacement.
All of this have me wondering — How long with a Vespa scooter last? What is the Vespa scooter lifespan?
Back in 2008 I remember having a conversation on this subject with Piaggio’s North American brand manager. His response to the question — take care of the maintenance and there’s no reason you can’t ride on to one hundred thousand miles. The rub though is the maintenance. Especially if you pay someone else to do it. As the value of the scooter continues to diminish the cost of the service can rise to half or three-quarters of the scooter’s value. My friend Paul thinks I’m nuts to keep investing in the scooter and should just buy a new one. Considerations of money has never been my strong suit. I’m driven more by need and desire.
I desire my Excalibur Gray Vespa GTS 250ie scooter.
I know of other Vespa riders through the Modern Vespa forum who have double and triple the mileage my machine has and are going strong. Most also do their own maintenance. I can do the simple stuff but have not had the time or interest in changing belts or fuel pumps. If I want to keep this particular scooter I may have to rethink things.
A Life with a BMW G650 GS Motorcycle
It’s no secret that I’ve desired a motorcycle of my own. I remember wandering the showrooms of motorcycle dealers when I was a teenager dreaming of the road. I do the same thing now. When my wife asked yesterday what I want for Father’s Day I just told her she knows what I want. She does know. Since she doesn’t read my blog someone will have to direct her to these pictures.
I’ve never ridden the BMW G650 GS. I’ve put a lot of miles on the F650 and F800 and loved those. I expect this one would be similar in nature and performance. I’ve always like the way they look and would change the character of riding experiences I have with the Vespa. And might even expand the stories I can tell.
Behold the Bumblebee
I love the yellow and black BMW motorcycles. A year older and 10 thousand more miles on the odometer, this BMW G650 GS is a promising option with hard side cases, ABS braking and heated grips. I can see myself riding a motorcycle for a different experience from the Vespa. Not better, just different.
Some have suggested the scooter is safer. I don’t understand the logic though can appreciate the feeling. I’m a generally slow and meandering rider. With the Vespa capable of 75mph it’s hard to imagine me riding any faster on a motorcycle just because it can go faster. And the lighter weight of the Vespa (40 pounds) might suggest a more nimble machine that can dodge danger more effectively but that’s a stretch. ABS brakes might certainly offset those concerns.
But back to the question of the longevity of the Vespa scooter I’m currently riding. Obviously a person can keep a machine running indefinitely with time and money. I suppose I’m just pondering if there’s a line somewhere suggesting an expense too far.
What is the Vespa scooter lifespan?
[optin-cat id=”8800″]
Steel says
Steve;
Yes, the question of longevity of pretty much any machine boils down to time and money.
But, within reason of course, perhaps the question of “money” should be taken out of the equation. But “time” is critical, in that we all have only so much time, and at some point, all the money in the world will not buy us one additional second of time.
When a “new” or different machine will provide a better experience in the time I have allowed to me, I’ll buy it. In the meantime, I’ll continue to enjoy what I have now.
Steve Williams says
Makes sense. I have no plans to not have a Vespa. It still delivers an exquisite riding experience. Just thinking of adding another machine. In case I decide to work on the scooter I’ll still have something to ride!
Tom Drake says
The h*** with your question; get the Beamer. 🙂
Why? Cuz it won’t be any easier to ride when you are older. Cuz if you love it, the sooner you get it the more time you’ll have to enjoy it. Cuz if it winds up not working out you can simply sell it.
Also cuz that’s my dream “big bike” and I’ve vowed to just ride my Vespa for the next year.
td
Steve Williams says
The BMW is a fine machine. I’ve been riding the Vespa for 11 years now. Hope to ride it (or another) for twenty more years!
RichardM says
The salt on your roads and the resultant rust may be the real limit to any vehicle’s lifespan. I’ve never ridden a scooter but I would think that the small diameter front tire would result in a harsher ride on rough roads. Plus a larger diameter front wheel would easily roll over obstacles. Just my thoughts…
Steve Williams says
The salt and winter riding has taken a toll. I’ve had to replace the muffler and I had the underside repainted in December. The smaller wheels definitely are noticeable on really rough roads. Requires some adjustments but nothing major. The knobby tires on the one BMW would make riding on the gravel forest roads a lot easier.
Kathy says
Steel and Tom both have valid points on the BMW. I suspect it will be the ability to get my leg up and over the tallish F650 GS that will be one of the things that eventually make me get a different machine. But currently, I think it’s perfect for me. It lends itself well to slow and meandering. It’s one of the lightest bikes I have owned, and I never worry about pulling off onto road shoulders or parking lots or whatever. It can handle many much surfaces better than the larger, and much heavier cruisers I have owned. The center stand is a Godsend, too. As is its low center of gravity. Many women steer away from them because they’re tall. But so am I.
The engine may be small compared to other motorcycles, but it’s got a surprising amount of power. I would never be afraid to take it onto a major interstate highway when necessary, but always prefer secondary highways and slower state roads.
I think you know all that stuff since you’ve ridden the BMWs, I just thought I’d echo your opinion that, as motorcycles go, it would be perfect for you. Go for it.
Steve Williams says
My experience with the BMW F650 GS mirrors yours. Plenty of power. I rode it about 50 miles on Interstate 80 with no concerns. I’ve ridden my Vespa on the same highway a lot farther so it’s all relative. Like you, I seldom choose that kind of riding unless I’m in a hurry.
I’m tall enough that I can easily flat foot the motorcycle so no issues there. And the center of gravity is surprisingly low considering how tall the bike looks. The seat height on the un-lowered version is the same as my Vespa.
Who knows what the future will bring. Need to wrap up work by the end of the month. Then I can walk through the retirement door and look more seriously at the next step!
Kathy says
Richard has good points, too! He was commenting at the same time, so I did t see his comment until after mine posted.
Tball says
Careful Sir…you are on the edge of a dilemma.
You love the Vespa experience as you document here so well…AND…you lust for a new ride…
The little beemer would no doubt please you in ways the Vespa cannot.
The dilemma is ……you would miss the Vespa
Solve the dilemma…get the bimmer… keep the Vespa
After parting with many motorcycles in favor of another….over 50 plus years of riding…. I learned this the hard way…the ones remaining in my garage all have their joyful roles.
But…u begin a new dilemma…space…and more maintenance….but if u take the pressure off the Vespa it will last forever.
Or Until the electric arrives
Steve Williams says
I’m not planning to replace the Vespa. Just add a second machine. I can’t imagine any motorcycle surpassing the riding experience of that scooter.
Tball says
Go Steve…let the clutter and posibilities begin.
Steve Williams says
I’m working hard on decluttering. To make room for a motorcycle…
Gary says
I bought an old second hand Vespa in 1963 and rode all over California when I graduated from high school. It was pretty easy to fix when things went south. When I joined the Army I put it in storage at my parents place for a couple of years. When I got out I thought what I wanted to do, so I bought a new battery and some gas / oil, pumped the kick starter a couple of times and was off to Alaska.
I was 17 when I bought that scooter, sold it when I was 52. What a life of fun and adventure that was. I’m 73 now.
Steve Williams says
I think one of the most amazing aspects of riding is the building of the collections of life long memories you describe.
Are you still riding now at 73 Gary?
Gary Baxter says
Yes I still ride. I have a new (to me) Vespa 300. Like you I like the roads less traveled.
Steve Williams says
Nice. Be safe and have fun on the less traveled roads.
Joe H says
That’s a pretty awesome short story, you should wrote too!
Steve Williams says
Absolutely. So many have stories worth writing.
Kitty says
I’ve been riding for 50 years. I spent the first 35 years or so riding ever larger road and ultimately touring bikes – starting with a 350, then to a 500, onto a 900, and then finally 1000ccs. Then about 15 years ago I switched to scooters. First a 50, then a 125, then a 300, and finally a 250, which I am currently riding. I’ve enjoyed every minute of all of it, and the only thing I miss on the scooters I’m riding is the ability to downshift when needed to provide engine braking.
Steve Williams says
I enjoy shifting on a motorcycle. There’s something connective between myself and the machine that’s satisfying. Not so much when I’m stuck in traffic though. And I do miss the engine braking that’s absent from the Vespa. But the scooter has other advantages. As I think back on all the motorcycles I’ve ridden I can only think of one I didn’t like — small and large. Had more to do with the riding position which was difficult to manage.
Otherwise — two wheels are great!
Bryce Lee says
Steve:
Your comments prompts me to suggest some things.
An olde saying “four sets of forks and six handles; still the pitch fork was still
Grampa’s! To which one may note the actual pitchfork was attributed to Grampa even though all the components had been replaced. Your Vespa is not there, yet.
The other comment is a bit different. The once rule of thumb in many local industries was you’re approaching retirement, in another year or so. Now while you’re working and have regular income is the time to purchase a new set of wheels be they two or three or four. Four wheels in your case was the sale of a small pick-me-up truck to a Honda Fit
which has proven satisfactory. Motor vehicles tend to last longer these days than twenty years prior; so keep what you have in four-wheelers for now. Three wheels evoke sidecar or Can-Am Spyder. two wheels, that yellow and black BMW you yearn to try..
The Pennsylvania yearly inspection could be seen as a partial tax grab however said inspection might reveal problems felt however not seen on the Vespa. The Vespa is paid fo,r it owes you nothing and trade-in value is probably nil. So keep it going; assume you originally purchased the Vespa for commuting to work, and allowing you a freedom not previously enjoyed.
If you decide to try the F650 BMW maybe also try one of the newer BMW 310’s as well, if Kissell has one in stock. Only one per dealer allotment here in Canada.
This is a new foreign build for BMW motorcycles; it should be interesting.
Steve Williams says
I haven’t seen the new BMW 310 in the showroom yet. We’ll see what’s available when I decide to write a check.
The inspection has some minor effects on safety in general I suppose. They’re really only looking at tires, exhaust, brakes, lights and body integrity. Doesn’t matter if the battery is near dead or your burning a quart of oil every 50 miles. Considering how hard I’ve ridden my scooter, especially the winter and off road stuff, it’s in great shape. But facing another expensive round of routine maintenance — shocks especially — has me wondering about the cost. Especially when there are low mileage replacements on the market.
Thoughts for another day.
John Oppy says
Steve, we are wired differently. I would guess I have had well over 400 motorcycles over the past 45 years. What have I learned? Well in part if you like a bike and it fits you and your lifestyle and you are happy each time you see it, it’s monitory value does not matter. Let Mr Ruby know happiness has no price. You keep the Vespa forever and when it needs something you have it done.
Buy the BMW and fit the side case with foam inserts for your camera equipment.
Steve Williams says
Happiness has no price? Ruby told me happiness costs $89.95. Batteries not included. I’ll have to speak with him.
400 motorcycles. Geez John. How is that even possible? That’s one motorcycle every 1.35 months! Don’t you have to mow the lawn or anything??
The real challenge in adding a motorcycle is Kim’s nervousness about safety. The throttle on a motorcycle is different from the Vespa…
Charlie says
Once you own a vehicle outright, unless the annual repair cost is approaching the annual pro rata cost of buying a new one, it’s always cheaper to keep it going. New costs say 15k, over 5 years so that’s 3k a year to buy and servicing is on top. I doubt you’re coming close to spending 3k a year – so don’t sweat it imho. Beemer is nice – I have a DR650 – more off road focussed but similar genre of bike. Its great for having adventures, especially where the Tarmac ends, and there’s enough poke to keep you entertained. Do eeeet!!
Steve Williams says
Thanks for the clarity in thought. While I always “felt” something like that, my lack of focus on all things numeric and financial, kept me from the light.
I’ve exchanged a couple emails about the BMW and the DR650. The Suzuki is a fine machine and one I’ve looked at over the years. It fits in along with the Kawasaki KLR I’ve been happy riding. If I’m completely honest about my interest in the BMW considering the higher maintenance costs — I’ve been poisoned by the brand myth…
Poppawheelie says
I respect Oppy, but I agree with Paul in this case. In any event, talk to me before you buy a BMW. If you recall, the one and only BMW I bought, a G650GS – I couldn’t get rid of it fast enough.
Steve Williams says
I’ll see you tonight at the Moto Hang!
David Eakin says
“With the Vespa capable of 75mph it’s hard to imagine me riding any faster on a motorcycle just because it can go faster.” This does not seem to be the norm among any vehicular drivers (either 2 or 4-wheel). And since this speed far exceeds any speed limits in PA , it also brings up a different question than the one you posed, but one that I think is definitely coming up with the technical advents of electronic vehicle controls all “in the name of safety”. Would you purchase any vehicle (2 or 4-wheeled) if the fastest the vehicle would go would be the posted speed limit on the particular road you are travelling?
Steve Williams says
I am generally a slow rider and driver — a result of my photography I suspect — a desire to see more. But I certainly understand and witness almost daily the press of high speeds around me.
Your question about whether I would ever purchase a vehicle that could not exceed the posted speed limit — yes I would. I would purchase an old VW Westfalia Campmobile with it’s maximum speed somewhere in the 65mph range. And with drum brakes all around, no airbags and generally something more akin to a deathtrap than a modern collision inspired vehicle. And I could see myself buying and riding a Honda Ruckus. But I’m odd in that respect. I know people who upgrade engine size with the rationale being, “I need more power to get out of my driveway because the traffic is fast in front of the house.” Oh well…
David Eakin says
Ah yes, the evergreen VW Type II. I am way too tall to use a Westy for camping but we had 2 of the passenger versions – a ’71 with the problematic 1700cc engine (and lots of rust, and a shifter shaft that would routinely become uncoupled) and a ’72 with a problematic (but hugely entertaining) sliding metal sunroof. Both were vast money pits, grossly underpowered, a terrifying handful to pilot across bridges or on express ways, but still provide fantastic memories (kind of like a scooter). I am also partial to the (Big 250cc) Ruckus but they are quite rare compared to their 50cc brother.
As far as my question – I can forsee a time (very soon) where speed limitation will be integrated into vehicles in the name of safety (justifiably so) and older, non-equipped vehicles will start to see restrictions of use; first off the limited-access highways, then off any state-maintained roads, then off all public roads. Like the phase-out of horses, bicycles and other personal conveyances.
Steve Williams says
Unsettling thoughts about vehicles being phased out. A tough sell politically — probably not far from phasing out guns.
Last night was talking with someone about electric vehicles and the relatively low maintenance of them compared to their internal combustion counterparts. Dealerships would have to worry their service cash streams would minimize. Could change the landscape of the auto world from repair shops to parts stores to the kind of vehicles on the road.
Change is a bitch.
David Eakin says
RE: electric vehicles – Absolutely! We are moving toward an electronic consumer device mentality: buy it, use it, toss it, buy another. Or just use it when you need it (a la ZipCar). But I still think the near future/pre-autonomous vehicle driving experience will be little more than steering (and that will have assistance) as most everything else will be computer controlled. BTW – dealerships service streams are just break-even ventures mainly for warranty work otherwise it would be better to just contract-out with private garages as the overhead/liability/management is too high. Just look at consumer comments for dealer service (often referred to as “stealers”) compared to private garages to see where the true talent lies. But this too will reduce with electric vehicles.
Steve Williams says
It certainly promises to be a brave new world in regard to vehicles and the things associated with them. Your comments about “stealers” gave pause as I thought about my experiences with dealer service over the years. In every case it’s been negative — bad to really bad — except when we switched to Honda vehicles. While it could just be the local dealer, the service has been exceptional. No surprises and wonderfully pleasant and helpful service. We’re on our third Honda now and it’s hard to imagine moving to anything else because of the service. We loved VW but my god was the service bad. I’ve only used four letter words with a service professional one other time. Seemed the norm with VW. Again, could have been the local dealer.
As I think about future vehicles, I’m still waiting for my damn flying car…
David Eakin says
But here is a brighter news story: http://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/autos-vans/all-the-buzz-volkswagen-id-buzz-confirmed-for-production/ar-BBCUccm?li=BBmkt5R&ocid=spartandhp#image=BBCTHuH|1
Steve Williams says
Certainly looks van-like. The way seating can be changed looks neat but can’t imagine ever needing anything but seats and no seats.
Thanks for sending — enjoyed looking at the VW future.
BWB (amateriat) says
From what I’ve read, particularly via Modern Vespa, these things go about as far as you desire them to, unless you wreck. This is my hope as I pass the year-and-a-half mark with Melody. I really did choose it based on longevity – both in the case of the bike’s overall qualities and my projected desire to keep it long-term. The latter part of this can be tricky, given the human predilection towards novelty, but I do have a personal analogue to the Vespa: my 32-year-old Alex Moulton AM14S road bicycle, purchased new in late summer of 1985, itself unique in the world of bicycles in its pioneering use of small-diameter, narrow wheels (17″) unisex spaceframe design, and front and rear suspension. Many fellow riders marveled at the thing when I bought it, but were practically placing bets that I’d tire of it in five years or less, and sell it off for whatever the next new thing on wheels was. Several other bikes have come and gone since then, but it’s still here, and I’m definitely still riding it, and just as happy with it as the first day i threw a leg over it.
My choosing the Vespa was also based on the necessity that it be my sole motorized ride of any kind. I don’t have the means to support more than one powered ride in my life, barring a lottery windfall, so a lot literally is riding on Melody’s wheels. And that’s totally cool with me.
Steve Williams says
I still have my late 1970s Schwinn mountain bike. Still works fine. Pump the pedals and it goes. Compared to modern bikes it looks cheap and rough. But it moves along the road like they do.
I have a lot of reasons for wanting to add a motorcycle to the mix but remain uncertain of the validity of any of them apart from I just want what I want. Maybe that’s enough.
Steve Brooke says
Hmmmm! Decisions decisions? I might have seen this movie once or twice before myself.
The Vespa can’t worth a whole lot on the market, not nearly as much as it might be worth to you. If this is indeed the case, keep it and buy the G/F 650GS single. The two of them won’t take up much room. Sometimes you want to enjoy a cup of tea and on other occasions an espresso. The contrasting riding experiences should make for some thought provoking rumination. Perhaps I’m being selfish here?
Owned a F650GS Dakar and based on my experience you might prefer the G Model with cast wheels? On the road tire repair will be so much easier. Tubeless repair versus inner tubes and all the paraphernalia their repair requires is much simpler provided the tire hasn’t been severely damaged.
Steve Williams says
With the miles and wear and tear on my Vespa I would be surprised if I could get $1500 for it. But it runs fine and takes me where I want to go. But the cost to replace the wear items — shocks in particular — is a big bite which has raised the idea of just buying another lower mileage scooter.
I definitely plan to always have a Vespa as long as I can ride. The BMW would be an addition. And the change in rumination is definitely a big driver of the desire. As far as the wheels go — I like the spoked look better but not enough to have tubed tires. I’ll need to look to see if they are actually or cosmetically spoked.
Andy Heckathorne says
Love your photography, Steve. You even make a scooter sitting in the shop waiting for service look good.
Selfishly, I hope you always have a Vespa as one of your rides. It’s always fun for me to see other scooter riders out and about!
Steve Williams says
You can’t go wrong with two big, graphic signs in the picture.
Don’t worry, I plan to always have a Vespa. Just thinking of additions to the mix.
Jim Zeiser says
As the owner of both you begin to see the strengths and flaws of each machine. It’s fairly easy to see , sorry, that you’re a scooterphile. I am a long time motorcyclist. I bought a Chinese Helix clone to use alongside my Chinese Vespa lookalike. For two years they were my only rides. One morning I took out my Late Wife’s Rebel. The surge after each shift was immediately seductive and I became a biker again. I still have the scooters but after her sad demise I bought a big Kawasaki.
What you will possibly discover, as I did, is that a scooter is a good errand machine but for distance and soul stirring a bike is the way to go.
Steve Williams says
I suppose that’s what I want to find out Jim — how much soul stirring will result from a motorcycle. Hard to imagine it surpassing the experience with a Vespa but I suppose my motorcycle riding wasn’t deep enough to know for sure.
Maybe I should be looking at a Goldwing…
dom chang says
Retaining and maintaining a vehicle past the point of making financial sense is perhaps what you’re wondering?
Brigitta, my R80 is 34 years old now, has clocked over 100,000 miles on her and still going strong. She doesn’t get ridden as much anymore and doesn’t get as much attention from me anymore besides making sure I ride her at least once a month. Why do I keep her then? Because she makes me smile each we ride together, reminding me there’s other joys besides the three-wheeled kind of joy.
So, the lifespan, it’s up to you.
Steve Williams says
There are times I have no idea what I’m thinking. Ask Kim, she’ll confirm that.
Brigitta is a fine ride. I’ve looked for something similar here but nothing on the market. As far as the Vespa lifespan goes — part of me wants to keep this one going but I know I’ll reach a point where it just seems crazy and I’ll replace it. But I don’t think I’m there yet. An engine rebuild would probably get me there…
David Masse says
It’s odd that if I were to buy a motorcycle to replace my Vespa, it would be that BMW.
Vespas are pricey, but BMWs? So much more. And getting them to where my Vespa is in terms of useful storage? Add another few thousand.
If I had both, I suspect the Vespa would log many more miles.
Then I ask myself “why bother, what for?”
Steve Williams says
I’ve not explored the additional expense of maintaining a second machine. My focus has been on the purchase price. And like you, hard to not think the Vespa would be the machine of choice after I get past the new machine honeymoon.
Bill+H says
We get spoiled with the very reasonable maintenance burden and costs for the Vespa. Not so much so with the BMW; higher maintenance burden and significantly higher costs. However, I very much favor your inclination to add a motorcycle to your fleet while keeping the GTS. I enjoy the variety of my GTS 300 along with several motorcycles I have in the barn.
Steve Williams says
I need to look at the maintenance costs. Sort of overlooked that in my thinking. But I agree with your assessment of variety — I can’t help but think a motorcycle would expand my mind!
Curvyroads says
You only live once Steve, go for it!!!
The only regrets I have are things I didn’t do. And now that I’m retired I can do those too!
Steve Williams says
I’m walking toward the end of the diving board…
Bill Leuthold says
I am back from Greece and stumbled upon your question, “How long will it last?”
You are also questioning the cost to maintain the machine and even whether it makes sense to buy a companion scooter or motorcycle to lessen the load on number one.
I have contemplated all of these and followed through with them.
How long will it last? Rocket, my 2006 GT, is now approaching 80,000 miles. I started having problems with the engine after 40,000 miles, had major work on it then, followed by good reliability until it got over 60,000. So I bought an engine off a wrecked GT in 2016. When the spark plug stripped all the threads in the head recently at 76,000 miles, I decided it would be easier (and less expensive) to replace the engine (and transmission as they are all in the same case) leaving me with a nearly new drive train. Rocket is now running like a new scooter at a reasonable cost.
I have always had an inexpensive mechanic in Boris Loose. He would change a belt for $60.00 if I provided the belt. Tires were equally inexpensive. But when he moved away, I started doing all of the basic work myself. A belt change is easy, I now do it in less than one hour at home. Removing wheels to have another mechanic replace tires for $ 25. labor is reasonable too. Oil changes and exhaust gaskets can now be done in my sleep. I suggest you try it to lower the costs and give you a feeling of accomplishment.
As for a motorcycle, I bought a Honda NC700X in 2013. I have ridden it for nearly 20,000 miles but never ride it anymore. It simply does not give me the same joy as a scooter.
Adding another scooter to the fleet worked better for me. I now have three GT’s. Rotating them for rides lessens the mileage on each. Because tire, belt and oil life is by mileage if you ride a lot, multiple scooters does not necessarily mean much more cost in maintenance because the changes will be based on your personal mileage on multiple scooters.
As for selling a scooter that has become such an integral part of your life, as Rocket is to me, I suggest never doing that. I plan to keep Rocket forever. It has made my life better in so many ways.
Steve Williams says
Your trip to Greece looked great. My wife and I were looking at the pictures on Rocket and Me and wishing we could make the trip someday.
Thanks for your insight regarding the longevity of the scooters and your approach to maintenance and management. I’ll certainly be doing more work myself once I retire. The notion of spreading riding across multiple scooters makes a lot of sense.
Thinking about your comment about the motorcycle — that’s my own fear in terms of owning one. I’ve ridden a lot of motorcycles but fear my desire is at the novelty level and I’ll just find out they aren’t scooters. Hard to say.
I have no plans to get rid of my GTS. Like you, it’s made my life better too. Someone else will send it away…
Mikey pep says
I’ve been riding motorcycles for over 50 years and have finally settled in on a Suzuki vstrom 650. I love this bike and will keep it till I can no longer swing a leg over. I just acquired a Vespa et4 150. I love it. I find it much more enjoyable to ride. 150 may not be enough but for country roads it’s perfect.
Steve Williams says
You and I are sort of in the same space regarding two-wheeled vehicles except I’ve come at it from the opposite direction (and I’ve only been riding for 15 years or so.). I’ve been on a Vespa LX150 and then the GTS250. They’re perfect for our country roads and a blast to ride. Recently I’ve acquired a BMW K75 — similar in size and weight to the VSTROM. It has it’s own personality and calls on different skills and delivers a different experience. It’s nice to have them both.
Paul Ruby says
Hokey smokes it took 10 minutes to scroll down through the comments I’ve never seen so many. I wanted you to enjoy riding a newer shinier scooter
instead of fixing Ol’ Bessy there. But there is merit in not being a large carbon footprint American consumer waste hog by fixing the one you have.
Steve Williams says
I wasn’t worried about the carbon footprint as much as thinking I would not gain anything by having a new scooter other than spending a lot of money. I have about 13K more miles on the scoot now and it’s still running fine. One of these days though something too expensive to pay someone else to fix is going to happen.
Jon says
Thanks for all the comments. I have a 2016, 49cc Primeravera that I bought in Boston, then I moved to Miami and I use it to go to work each day (20 miles total per day). Wondering the lifespan of the vespa.
Steve Williams says
When I still had contacts with Vespa USA one of their product managers saw no reason that the engine would not go 50K miles before a rebuild was required. I have 43K on mine and it’s fine. On the Modern Vespa site there are riders with double that mileage. Twenty miles a day won’t hurt it.