Just as a friend passed on the Vespa infection to me I’ve passed it on myself—to my father-in-law. He purchased a 2003 Vespa ET4 on Friday which I happily made the 60 mile delivery ride to his house on Saturday morning.
It was around 29 degrees F when I left at 6:30AM, colder than I thought it would be, so I had to make a few more stops than planned to warm up. I had breakfast at the Family Chill and Grill in Bald Eagle, Pennsylvania and that just made things worse as all the blood move towards my stomach to chew on the eggs, bacon and homefries.
The Vespa ET4 is a great scooter and this particular one is flawless and well-maintained. It is a wonderful cream color with warm leather highlights on the seat, cowling, and topcase. Performance was about the same as my LX150 with two recognizable exceptions. The engine had a deeper sound at highway speeds and it also seemed more responsive to the throttle with smooth, direct acceleration. Subtle but I could tell the difference.
The family is not entirely thrilled about Pappy getting this scooter. All the usual safety concerns have come up. I’ve communicated a lot of information to him about the risks and his responsibilities to manage them. He’s in great shape and has been an avid bicycle rider for a long time so the transition to scooter won’t be difficult. I think he’ll have a great time riding around town on his new Vespa.
Nice pic. The colors combined with the texture of the seat have a Benz or Jag quality about them. Good for Pappy. Simple advice if I may. Know the limits of the environment, the bike, and the person. Ride within them. Rule number 1: Don’t forget to have fun!
Dan
I’ve relayed your advice and I think he understands completely. He has his permit and insurance and is waiting for the license plate today. I couldn’t talk him into a full face helmet though—too claustrophobic. Pappy is also getting gloves and jacket and has been practicing starting, stopping, and getting familiar with the balance of the scooter in the neighborhood.
I can hear the excitement in his voice. With so many people I never hear that. What a gift two wheels have….
You know – I actually think it is sort of neat he is going to ride a scooter. In reality – the safety concerns for him are no different than they are for anyone else. Certainly I am sure it will keep him feeling young and energetic. It might also keep him out of the house – which may make someone else very happy. 😉
Make sure he gets some protective pants too! 🙂
Steve,I think its too cool that he got a Vespa! Question for you, I love your yellow and black jacket. What brand and model is it?
Thanks
Susan
Yamaha Vino 125
I’d like to send my warmest welcome to your Dad on joining the two wheeled family. May he have many years of trouble free riding.
😀
hrw115: Pappy is just thrilled. I spoke with him last night and he has his insurance, license plate and is supposed to get his permit this morning. He has a helmet but nothing else yet. I’ll keep working on him for gloves and riding jacket…
kitkatknit: My jacket is a Triumph Jacket that I purchased at the local Triumph dealer. I haven’t seen any this year. It may be something that they brought out only in 2006.
MAD: I’ll pass on the warm wishes. I know he’s excited. When we talk on the phone he sounds like a kid on Christmas morning…