![Vespa GTS scooter parked in the shade in a bank parking lot.](https://scooterinthesticks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_7368.jpeg)
The Right Choice for Errands
Of the scooters and motorcycles in my garage, the Vespa GTS scooter is my first choice for running errands. Why? Because it is utterly simple to use and it has more than enough power for any situation I will encounter. And among all the things it is good at, it is the perfect chore running machine. And on this day I had four chores to accomplish.
By the time I arrived at the bank to deposit a check I was already appreciating why the Vespa GTS scooter was the right choice.
![Vespa GTS scooter parked at WalMart.](https://scooterinthesticks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_7375.jpeg)
Simplicity
I hate to say this but motorcycles, regardless of size or type, are just more cumbersome to use in the chore right environment. They’re generally heavier and bigger making them a little more difficult to maneuver in parking situations. And you have to climb off them, swing a leg over the bike which for me becomes more difficult with each passing year.
The Vespa GTS is extremely simple to step from and put on the center stand. I’ve ridden with others who are still fumbling to find neutral as I already have my camera out to take a picture. Not all scooters are created equal though. The Vespa scooters are easy to step through. Other scooters are not as easy to mount as their pass through is higher or narrower.
![Motorcycle and gloves on the seat of a Vespa GTS scooter.](https://scooterinthesticks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_7369.jpeg)
Gearing Up
Some riders don’t choose their machines because of the added burden of “gearing up.” I understand the dilemma. For me though it’s simple. I put on a riding jacket, pull on my helmet, stick my hands in the gloves and off I got. I’m almost always in jeans and wearing boots of some sort so I can go quickly. I usually don’t put on my armored riding pants for chores and errands. That might change things.
![Checking out new glasses in a mirror at WalMart.](https://scooterinthesticks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_7372.jpeg)
Backup Glasses
I recently learned a lesson — have backup glasses. Ones with prescription that decently corrects the vision deficiencies that ail me. So the next stop was at WalMart where I picked up a pair of glasses that were 1/5th the cost of the ones I got at my optometrist. I may never need them but it offers peace of mind to know they’re available.
![Vespa GTS scooter getting gas at Sheetz.](https://scooterinthesticks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_7376.jpeg)
Fuel Fantasies
A lot of riders embrace the myth of two-wheeled economy based on what they spend at the gas pump. So far this month I’ve spent a grand total of $16.53 on fuel to keep my two cars and five motos going. We don’t drive the cars much and the scooters and motorcycles sip fuel. If you want to talk about moto-economics. Talk about tires and the hourly rate of motorcycle mechanics.
Another chore complete as I filled up the Vespa.
![Vespa GTS in a grassy field.](https://scooterinthesticks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_7385.jpeg)
Simple Rules
The next stop is 18 miles away and requires crossing a mountain. One of the delights of chore running is exploring the roads less traveled. This is a result of a few simple rules.
- Don’t rush.
- If you need to rush, take the car.
When I am not in a hurry I can do things like wander across Penn State’s stadium parking fields instead of following traffic along the highway.
![Vespa GTS scooter stopping to say hello to a horse.](https://scooterinthesticks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_7388.jpeg)
Stopping to Say Hello
There’s something about horses along a fence that brings the scooter to a stop. I wish I could provide some deep statement of understanding but I can’t. I just like seeing their faces. These guys were patiently waiting for someone to stop by with their evening bale of hay.
Again, I’m struck by how easy it is to stop, get off the scooter, walk over and say hello, take a picture, and be on my way again. I generally don’t stop for horses when I’m on the motorcycle.
![Vespa GTS scooter parked at Boalsburg Apothecary.](https://scooterinthesticks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_7392.jpeg)
Pharmacy Chores
I’d ridden nearly 30 miles of total chore running by the time I arrived at the pharmacy to pick up a prescription. It was a fine afternoon to ride with the temperature in the lower 80s. The roads available were mostly calm with only a few short segments of cage intensity. The Vespa GTS scooter provides a serene form of transport. Something akin to a flying carpet I think.
![Vespa GTS scooter parked aong a rural road.](https://scooterinthesticks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_7396.jpeg)
Homeward Bound
On the main highway in front of the pharmacy it is a straight ride home at 55mph. I’ve done it many times and can testify that it’s a bore. The scenery passes too quickly at that speed and a big part of my riding awareness is consumed paying attention to the rather aggressive drivers on this stretch of the highway.
So I choose the road less traveled which parallels the main highway but offers a serene and relatively devoid of cages experience.
By the time I wandered home I was relaxed, happy, and grateful to run a few chores on the Vespa GTS scooter.
A few things were reinforced on this ride.
- The Vespa GTS scooter is the best choice for me to run more than one errand.
- Not rushing pays huge riding benefits.
- Gearing up can be simple.
- You’re only as satisfied as your last ride.
Sadly, no chores today…
I second the scooter idea for errands. In many cases it’s what it was built for. My Honda 250 weighs the same as your Vespa, so moving it around is no problem, but doesn’t have a trunk. It does take a longer to stow items like a half gallon of milk in the knapsack I have strapped to the back seat. My joy is using my 168.9cc scooter to save wear and tear on the cars. Plus it’s pretty fun to ride.
I agree. The scooter has more carrying capacity, and is fun to ride. I’m planning on a long ride later this week just to double check my feelings!
My last run to the local hospital, 3.5 miles away, for a routine appointment logged up 23 miles….somehow.
rgrds from Lincoln UK
Chris
I do the same whenever I can! Enjoy your rides.
Funny how that happens. Just a few extra turns…
I agree with you. The Gts is simply the best not just to run errands or visit a friend, it’s also my scooter of choice for even longer trips. I logged 994km (618 miles) to participate in the Canada Vespa Days in June. Took 7hrs to get to Kingston Ontario and I did not feel as tired as when I ride my Yamaha Xmax 300. I’d post a photo here of my 2016 300 Super Sport loaded with luggage but I can’t find how.
The GTS is a cushy, comfortable ride. I’ve not had a chance to ride the XMAX 300 yet but a friend has one and wants to trade scoots for a day so perhaps I will have some first hand experience.
That’s a long ride — 618 miles. Not sure my aging back could do that in one ride anymore. Sounds more like two full days to me!
I’m right there with ‘ya. I also appreciate light weight, storage capability and a step through design. I’m currently on a Piaggio Liberty 150, but a very similar design. I was riding this morning, marveling at the countryside. For the demographically minded, I’m a 70 year old, retired school teacher, living in S.W. Ohio. Everyone be careful out there!
I just turned 70 and do a lot of countryside marveling. And that’s what a scooter helps me do best.
Great thoughts. Couldn’t agree more. It’s a great grocery runner also with my GiVi top case. I can easily fit 4-5 bags if not too heavy in its 47L.
The most fun I have on my scooter is when I get lost and explore new places or ways to get to places where I normally take the highway.
I agree with everything you’ve shared from the utility of a GIVI top case to the magic of getting lost in some new place. A Vespa scooter is just made for it all.
If my route takes me more that 3-5 miles on a 55MPH road, then I will probably take my Kymco 300i. But for in-town and back road errands, the CT125 Trail Rider is always my choice. Of course, if I owned a Vespa, maybe I’d make a different choice 🙂
I could have ridden the CT 125 but going over the mountain would have been a challenge. Traffic moved at speeds between 45 and 55, a feat the Honda would not embrace. Plus I don’t have the carrying capacity yet on the Honda. So the Vespa was a good choice.
Good Stuff Steve. I Like to guess where you are at on your ride.
I bet you’ve been in all of those places.