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Vespa GTS 300 - Why You WANT One
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- čas přidán 7. 08. 2024
- Vespa GTS 300 review, including 5 reasons why you may or may not want to buy this 300 cc scooter, how fast it goes, how it handles on the highway, and more!
#vespa #vespagts300 #vespagts300review
While the Vespa GTS is quite a big scooter, once you learn to use your weight to deal with that, it's still freaky nimble, and with small wheels and wheelbase it does flip in and out of traffic just like the smaller ones. There are advantages with the bigger, heavier frame too - it's more stable and comfortable for hours (for me anyway) on country roads and highways at 110kph (the max anywhere in Oz). Again, you have to learn to go with it. I find that, sitting upright (at the dead centre of the bike), the best way to go is to loosen up and be the pivot so you do not pitch and bounce (it's just the bike that does that). The suspension, which is developed from an airplane landing gear (I love that idea) is actually very good these days. I do get that if you have 2 specialised bikes, then a small Frame Vespa and a highway bike makes sense. But if you can only have a single bike (perhaps not even a car), and have modest highway max's then the GTS300 does it all; from inner city traffic jams to freeway commute. I should also say, the recent HPE versions are a big step up with maybe 20% more power and torque, more refined engineering all around, and even lower fuel consumption. As for the step through. Yes, it does open the bike to the less-mobile, but that's not what that is for. It goes right back to the philosophy developed 75 years ago; provide a cockpit so you can wear your street clothes, get some protection from the wet and the wind, pack your shopping, tie down your tools, set up your camping gear, and load a huge amount of gear everywhere on the bike. I agree that the belt only lasts a 5th of the normal bike belts, but the chain lasts forever (since it doesn't have one), so it's swings and roundabouts. That all goes back to another part of the Vespa philosophy; to separate the engine (and the oil and grease and dirt) from the rider. I think Vespas need to be serviced on time and to specifications, because there's a lot going on under the hood that can go wrong without you being aware it is there. So I think Vespas and Harleys both share one big thing. They are the result of a clear vision for what they should be, and decades of development. Love them both.
It's like having only one girlfriend in college... Sure you could do it... But it's so much more fun when you have a lot of options. As we get older the women seem to be less tolerant of that though, but the bikes don't mind if you have a few other bikes, so I'm satisfied lol
Bought the updated version of this bike last June (new front suspension, keyless, etc). Put over 3k on it the first month that I owned it. Absolutely love mine! As someone who has always owned large bikes, I was apprehensive at first but honestly, I couldn’t be more smitten. She handles highway speeds (Canada) perfectly and is as close to a “bagger” as I will ever own. Another item checked off my bucket list, I have zero regrets or intentions of ever selling her and hopefully will keep her in the family for decades to come. ❤
It really does check a lot of things off the wants and needs list from a bike doesn't it? I have a red GTS 250 I'm planning on keeping forever as well. Or at least until I find a newer red GTS haha.
Have been riding my Vespa GTS for 8 years now. My daily commute. Now 57000Km on the clock 35635 Miles. Form having owned four BMW GS Adventure bikes, I have never regretted the decision to buy the Vespa. I do lots of highway commuting. Steve’s point of move over is the answer to an enjoyable ride. Let the other plonkers move on!!!
Regular servicing at the correct time and she just keeps running. I am so hooked I bought a second new Vespa HPE 300cc. It’s absolutely wonderful to ride. As has been said every time I ride the Vespa I smile. Yea pricy but you get the quality you pay for.
Problem is, when someone is in the lane next to you (as is the case 99% of the time when you live in city of 3 million people, with about 2 more million counted in the surrounded area), is you can never just "move over" you typically either have to brake, or accelerate, to move over.
Re: smiles on a Vespa, I totally get you. I took my buddy for his first Vespa ride and we started in the cemetery just to take advantage of low traffic (again, densely populated city) and gradual hills and curves. We did our first lap and he says "I don't think I should be smiling so much in a cemetery" lol - very fun little machines. I have a couple GS adventure bikes as well, but sometimes the Vespa can be the better tool for the job!
@@YouMotorcycle just be safe out there.
@@dannydanielson9257 you as well, cheers!
Thanks Danny good response here! I own a Goldwing DCT Tour, an Africa Twin and a CB650R 2021 that I just bought that I'm trading for a Vespa 300 GTS Racing Sixty! I wasn't sure if I was making the right thing but your review give me confidence!
I've been in some long rides on my 07 GTS 250, all back roads and Highways 55/60 mph. Awesome times! Just rode to San Diego this weekend from the IE.
Nice, that would make a great ride on backroads, that's awesome! If you're cool with doing that the GTS250 is a great option and it saves you a ton of money over the 300!
I’m planning a trip in 2023 from CO to Arizona on a 07 GTS 250 🤠 I just had the engine overhauled (unfortunately with complications) but I’m giving myself ample time to research trips for what extras to bring, compact maintenance kit, etc.
Any tips you could give in hindsight?
My buddy Ben took his GTS 250 across Canada twice so he'd be in a better position than me to answer. I'd just say the usual that applies to any bike: ample hydration, tires checked and topped up, frequent stretch breaks, consider getting a cruise control so your hand isn't locked in one position for too long, etc.
The added weight of the large body isn't a bad thing.
1. It adds stability when going highway speeds.
2. Vespas tend to 'live' in cities. With all the best security features, there's still little folks can do against a thief picking up a scooter and putting it into the back of a van. An extra 90lbs, makes it that much harder.
Yup, many in city have somewhere secure to lock their Vespa though. Like me. So the extra 90 lbs isn't necessarily a good thing either. It just is what it is. For some it will be good. For some it will be bad
Great informative review. 👍... I'm a bit of a bike tart and change things up very often in the garage always looking for that perfect bike to pull out and enjoy... I've tried, owned and ridden countless bikes and scoots over 30 years and I think I've finally found the magic formula 😉 A Harley Softail Standard 107 and a Vespa LX 125 3v both taking a place in the driveway... They are the polar opposite of wants and needs and both just as appealing for rider and pillion. The Vespa 250's 300's are the go to motorcycles when you don't want a motorcycle. If you only want 1 thing parked in your driveway, but you are a pragmatist that appreciates art, history and industrial design, its your go to "do-it-all" device, the large frame Vespa's ticks more boxes than almost anything for city and town dwellers.
I loved the combo of big cruiser and small vespa for many years. Everything one is great at, the other isn't, and vice versa. It covers a lot of bases.
For sure I had to leave a comment, my 2009 GTS 250 has been true its paces and still keeps on riding along. 2 trips from Montreal QC to Vancouver BC Canada, all highways with bags/tools and a 5 liters gas bladder for the prairies. With a polini clutch and variator the GTS has no limiter and could kick the maximum at 142km/h with power and stability without over reving it's life, can't say it's great passing a big semi but you just accelerate and pass them on.... The best was people stopping me for questions on the trip and passing cruisers and touring motorcycles on the highway; best double looking ever
You're a whole other kind of animal though monsieur. I suspect many riders couldn't even lace your boots with all the two wheeled stuff you get up to lol
Wow! quite of a ride!
Hey thanks for the awesome video and lots of information, do you recommend a Veterano 200 cc?
Thanks! No I don't recommend that, sorry. I've never even heard of it.
Also the final drive has some great aftermarket add ons that change the character and top speed of the bike as well
Yup, you can change pulleys/sliders, variator, etc. but changes to the final drive to improve performance can be said of most motorcycles, and 90% of riders will leave them stock.
Great review
Thanks Jose! Much appreciated
A very good recap of a Vespa GTS‼️🛵💨🦑
Thanks brother. You're getting a shout out in my next video. Stay tuned!
@YouMotorcycle Adrian, no worries on that.
It's already filmed and edited I'm just trying to get some reviews up first as a lot of people are starting their spring shopping for new/used bikes
NEW sensible style of production - like it!
I love my Vespa S, it's the small size one compared to the GTS, but since I already have motorcycles for when I need to go faster, it's really nice for going slow.
Thanks for vespa 250 tip 🔥💯
No problem. I love my GTS 250 :)
Hi have you heard about or tried the Aventura X EV30?? And would you be willing to do a review about it like this one if so? 🙏🙌 loved this vid!
I haven't tried any CF Moto motorcycles personally yet, sorry. Unless they're a lot cheaper than a Japanese counterpart. Resale value tends to really suck. People lose a ton of money when they try selling them.
I have a 2022 300 HPE Racing 60's and its fine at high way speeds. I used to have sports bikes and the Vespa is just so usable. The understate storage is useful an its just a great all round machine.
Why I always keep one scooter in my stable. A lot of my errands get done on my Vespa rather than my motorcycles
Great tip, thanks. I have a 2007 200 and while I want something newer, I didn’t want 300. So was considering a 150, but not thrilled with going down in power.
A used 250 might be perfect for you. Put some malossi rollers on there and enjoy a nice bump up in power vs your 200 when switching from your Leader engine to the Quasar engine.
@@YouMotorcycle it’s a shame they no longer make 200/250’s. Would have been a no brainer. It’s annoying as hell😅 And 200/250’s seem hardish to find.
Probably too much cannibalization between models if they have too many engine size options. Gotta keep a sweet spot for profitability 😔
@@YouMotorcycle thus why I’m considering a motorbike (less than 400 cc’s). The new Royal Enfield Classic or Meteor are looking sweet.
I'd look elsewhere personally.
Nice find for tonight ..more contents about Guzzi on your other videos 😎
Thank you! More to come! (There's one in the garage right now)
Yes that was a great sales pitch , good for disabled people. I really feel like running out and buying one now.
Would you rather I lie to people? If not, don't complain lol
Very very good review on the GTS 300, I'm just more kooked now and got to get one!, it look simply awesome! as far as what other rider might think! I dooooooooooooooooooon't care!
Awesome. Hope you get it and love it! I think they're great.
@@YouMotorcycle Indeed! I was on the market to buy new and after your video I bought a use 250 GTS in very good condition for $2500.00, it has 21500 Km on it! Just love that thing! so small and nimble compare to my Goldwing!, was impressed with the quality build! thank you so much for your informative video you are helping people to find what they need! keep going!
@@Gate3739 That's awesome, congrats! I am in the market for a used GTS now too but I may wait a bit longer to see what new things Vespa unveils for 2023... Stay tuned and thank you :)
Hi I just subbed. Could you tell me ASAP this morning does GTS 300 and GTS 250 share the same body size? I'm looking to buy used floor Matt I have 300 and floor Matt is fro GTS 250 please lmk soon thanks and keep making great vids.
Hi, thanks Jake. I've never seen the 250 and 300 side by side at the exact same time to really tell you for sure. Just call up a vespa dealer and they can answer you for certain right away.
Here in Australia the Vespa step through design gets a bagging because they say the bikes are so shit even the seating position is like sitting on a toilet…….
But I have to say the step through design has saved my life
I was exiting a roundabout and as I was exiting a car failed to stop on my left and she entered the roundabout clipped the back wheel
I was able to chuck the bike to my right launch myself off it to the left and the step through design allowed me to basically spring off the bike and I had zero injuries……
If I had my legs wrapped around the frame I could not have simply jumped off it…….
Glad you're alright, all things considered
Sounds like it could have been much worse
Thanks for the info about the drive belt. Kinda disappointing that the belt doesn't last very long. I wonder if the belt on the Suzuki Burgman last longer?
I don't know, I'd rather take my bicycle than ride a Burgman lol
You just helped me decide to get the 150cc
Glad I could help! Personally I love that motor. I have nothing against the GTS', if one came up for the right price I might grab it, but I think the 150cc is so much fun and small enough to squeeze in anywhere. Enjoy it! 🙂
@@YouMotorcycle yeah the 150 seems to suit me better since I am replacing a Honda Cub (fuckin pot holes). It’s really the size that is making me move towards the 150. I didn’t realize how big the 300 was. Not to mention an $8K scooter seems to be a bit excessive.
Nice to see you have a HD VRSC and a Vespa too
I actually just sold my V-Rod in June after owning it for 5 years. Loved it. Will probably buy another one. One day...
I like Vespa because it gets you noticed on the road. Granted, I ride a white 1971 Vespa Rally 180, but people see me from a mile away and usually slow down to check out the classic curvy italian goodness. I almost bought a GTS250 a little while back, but it was flat black... Visibility is a big deal for 2 wheel vehicles, don't forget that!
Nice! I know exactly what you mean. I had a white 1979 Vespa 100 (here: czcams.com/video/pgYG-1Sc5kY/video.html ) what a beauty!
I have a 1979 Vespa P200E, with a 2 stroke engine, manual transmission, and manual clutch. I also have a 2006 Vespa GT200 (same physical size as the GTS250 and GTS300, and almost as fast) Main difference between the 200 , 250, and 300 is that the 200 is carbureted. It does have a CVT. But no ABS. I could never deal with ABS, and would disable it. A huge part of the fun of riding for me, whatever I'm riding, is being totally 100% in control of it. No computer intervention. I absolutely would never buy a matte black ANYTHING, scooter or motorcycle. If I bought a GTS300, it would likely be red. I love bright shiny paint and chrome. My '79 is white, my '06 is light metallic green. I also have a 2006 Harley 1200 Sportster. I like both scooters and motorcycles. With the exception of crotch rockets. You couldn't give me one of those things. They are designed for roadracing, and have no business on the street.
@@geraldscott4302 many of the 250cc GTS didn't have ABS either :) but they had fuel injection
@@YouMotorcycle I don't trust fuel injection nearly as much as carburetors. I worked as a government fleet services mechanic for 40 years, and we had nothing but trouble wit EFI. 7-8 people a day bringing in vehicles that were running fine but with the check engine light on. Carbureted engines are much more reliable and easy to work on. But, EFI does not interfere with the operators control of the vehicle. I won't tolerate that. A big part of the fun of riding IS being in complete control of the bike. In fact, IMO, and up to a point, the harder a bike is to control, and the more skill it takes to control it properly, the more fun it is to ride.
Still running a carbureted car are ya? 🤪
i own both as well its comfort and luxury with the ability be in and out of traffic especially in Miami beach
It's a great inner city bike!
Nice review. I think scoots are great for the urban environment, and I rode one in Chicago for a lot of years. Very good tip on the 250 also
Hope CZcams doesn't spank you for the pee-pee jokes. LOL 😆
Usually my pee pee gets me on the giving end of a spanking not the receiving end, so that'll be a new experience haha.
Thanks again for the kind words Paul! Hope you're keeping well man!
had to add....finally found a vespa on the island thats listed as a "decent" price. Found on fb marketplace...2018 vespa 300 Touring Model w around 6k miles asking $5200. And in a beautiful reddish maroon color...Enjoying the ride each day...stay safe. Aloha.
That's awesome congrats!
GREAT INFO. There's lots of great videos production wise but lack content and depth with info. I rode motorcycles for 12 years got in serious accident. Wife said only Vespa if I ever ride again. So got a 09 VESPA 150LX. Loved it but a would like a fuel injection version. So now I'm looking at 2017 Sprint ABS version and 2010 300 GTS. There's only a Vespa badge on the back left side but nothing on the other (right) side the indicates if it' a 300GTS SUPER or Not. How can I tell if it's a Super or not? Guy selling is a new rider and know little about it he bought it new. Also the speedomter cluster is all in black I've seen the outer part is gray and inner part where the needles are on are black. Can't find pics online that's stock in all black. I'm nervous if it was opened up and painted on. don't like the feeling of it being tampered on. Bike in decent shape just dirty engine. Any tips, helps and advise I would greatly appreciate it. thanks
Thanks. Just get the vin # and call up a Vespa dealer anywhere in the world and give them the vin number and they'll tell you what it is. Alternatively it'll probably say on the ownership, but the vin # phone call to the dealer will tell you with 100% certainty
Great video. I have a Electra Glide and a GTS 300.Like both but the Vespas so much better outside of long distance. And if you need a certain ride to be a man you've got issues world.
Well said. For the past few years I've had a Vespa and my V-Rod and they were a great combination. Best of both worlds! PS thank you!
I've owned a BMW, various Japanese and European motorcycles and scooters from 50cc to 1000cc, including a Vespa SS180. The size, weight and power of a bike has nothing to do with the pleasure derived from riding it. Adjust your expectations and choose your roads, and it's all good.
@@borderlands6606 I know. That's why I said I enjoy both my Vespa and my V-Rod. I think you need to read what you're replying to. Lay off the drugs and relax man
@@YouMotorcycle I was replying to the original post. It's not all about you, man!
love me silver vespa gts250 …13 years and still take it out now and then.
They're great. I have a 06 GTS250ie now and I love it as well.
You can get the limiter and program changed and get heavier variator weights also swap out the exhaust with a performance one you should be able to get 90mph!
Nice! Just a bummer that we can't get this from factory on a modern 300cc.
I have two cars but still want to get an used Vespa as my Dad used to have one. Approximately how much the scooter insurance will cost me for such a toy/ beauty? Thanks.
A good question for an insurance agent. But without telling them where you live, your age, marital status, driving history, driving record, and a bunch of other personal information that you probably shouldn't be sharing publicly, there's no way for someone like me to be able to tell you. Talk to a professional insurance agent who lives in your area.
I had a go on a Vespa 300 a while back, was quite enjoyable, although didn't really feel as authentic as the originals from the 60's. "Sportily" is def a word... or at least is now! :D
Yeah they're pretty big and top heavy and smooth in comparison!
I have a Vespa gts250 and it's a fun ride, especially around town. It's so easy to ride in traffic or anywhere for that matter. The thing is, you need to have a variety of bikes. Sometimes I just don't feel like wrestling with getting the Fat Boy out of the garage. But, if I plan on being on the interstate, the Fat Boy is my ride.
@@jimbobaggans1564 absolutely, I have a few bikes to juggle too! 🙂
Yup. In my large frame versus small frame Vespa comparison I point out that the reason I went for the small frame is because it's better than the large frame in the places I need a little bike, and my motorcycles are better than either in the places I need a bigger bike.. variety, the spice of life 👌
Excellent comment, very underrated channel 💯👌🏾🔥
Thanks!
Thanks very much!
Nice reflections on the Vespa GTS300. I agree with pretty much everything from the small peepee to the freedom from chain stuff. The only thing I might add is regarding your comment of someone riding up on you on the freeway at 77mph and there's nothing you can do. In my mind, this is one of the major weak links in the brains of motorcycle riders -- someone too close behind, must go faster.
Between my two Vespa scooters I have almost 60 thousand miles. 44 thousand on the GTS. I've discovered during that time that there's another option -- pull over, give way, etc. Now I expect peepee issues interfere with this choice, but I can say that in all the times I have pulled over, not once have I suffered any sort of impotence, crying spells, or thoughts of buying a pink riding jacket.
I hate people on my tail. So I pull over. And for those times I'm on the Interstate traveling the legal speed limits in Pennsylvania, I'll always give way.
Otherwise, your thoughts on the GTS, including looking for a used 250, are spot on. Bravo!
Hey, thank you. I think it's easy to think the mentality is "someone too close behind, must go faster" if you're coming from an "in the sticks" perspective.
But I'm not in the sticks, I'm in the biggest city in my country and one of the most densely populated cities in north america. It isn't a "must go faster" mentality, it's more like....
Picture three rows of three, like this:
↖ ⬆ ↗
⬅🏍➡
↙ ⬇ ↘
At any given point on a motorcycle ride you usually have 8 options of escape, represented by the 8 arrows.
If someone is tailgating you they've removed the bottom 3 options. Your safe escape options are already reduced by 37.5%.
↖ ⬆ ↗
⬅ 🏍 ➡
X 🚗 X
Now we need to remember that there are other vehicles in the road blocking because there are 3.5 million other people living where I live, so "pull over, give way, etc." doesn't really apply:
↖ ⬆ ↗
⬅ 🏍 🚗
X 🚗 X
And that's assume I'm on a three lane highway.
If I'm only on a two lane highway, guess where the only safe escape I have available to me is?
Ahead of the flow of traffic until I can safely change lanes, let the hot head blow by.
But that requires having the power available to do that. Otherwise I'm a sitting duck surrounded by 3 million people who are more concerned with sending a text message than with my general well-being.
So it isn't a matter of "must go faster" it's a matter of being able to go faster = having 37.5% more options to get to safety.
I agree and always ride in the slow lane on freeways. The problem isn’t the 77 mph top speed, but rather lack of any meaningful acceleration rate above 50 mph. It will get up there but more like a 40hp Beetle. Compared to most motorcycles a Vespa is not suited for highway use in my opinion, even though I take it on the big road occasionally.
Regarding the speedometer error, I don’t know about the GTS, but my GTV-250 needle rests on its peg at 5mph when stopped. I have GPS verified that the unit consistently indicates 5mph over actual speed throughout its range. Stupid design.
Nice video. Is the colour red or orange??
Thank you. It is very red.
Had a belt implode on my Piaggio BV200. It locked the rear wheel while going about 65mph. It was like hitting the brakes triple hard and I kept it up. I credit the Michelin City Grip tire for maintaining grip and not sliding.
How many km or miles did you have on it when it exploded? Was it overdue for service?
@@YouMotorcycle about 9000 miles, but I think it was more of a time thing
How does it ride with 2 people ? TOP SPEED with 2 people. ? I see many 3-4"year old vespas like new low miles for 1/2 retail. ❤
Your top speed is not going to really be limited with more weight, but it might take you longer to get there. With two people it still rides well. I bought a GTS250ie with very little miles for 1/3 the price of a new 300cc. Like any smaller bike, when you have more weight acceleration is a little slower, braking is a little longer, handling is a little harder, but it's still fine and I do a lot of two up riding. Look for passenger foot peg extensions for both you and your passenger's comfort.
Just sold my trident 660 and about to get a Vespa, always enjoy riding a scooter more than a motorbike.
Oh wow. What didn't you like about the Trident?
@@YouMotorcycle the trident was a brilliant bike, I just prefer a twist and go.
One you might have wanted to mention in the 250 vs 300 debate is fuel injector vs carborated Vespas. My friend who is an experience rider didn't enjoy clearing and cleaning the carborator. Thanks for the videos and nice to see another rider in Toronto.
Hey Andrew! Are you sure the 250s came carbureted in Canada? My understanding was the gt200 what carbureted, but the GTS 250 was never carbureted here. I think that was the big selling difference between the large frame gt200 and the GTS line.
@@YouMotorcycle Thanks for the correction. It was 2009 for the smaller vespas
lol no problem. I have a weird encyclopedic/photo memory brain for motorcycle stats. It's my weird superpower. Unfortunately this doesn't work for anything else in my life. It's weird, I don't get it, I'm weird, whatever haha
They go great They do not stop great. If you grip both hand breaks, you have only your thumbs to hold on to the grips.
Use less fingers?
Notice that Markus, the round the world traveler, rides the older shift models.
Yup, to each their own. I think most Vespa owners are simply commuting back and forth to work and would choose the ease of use of fuel injection over having to mix two stroke oil and gas and deal with the maintenance needs of carburetors. If they suddenly found themselves needing to be self-sufficient on a trip around the world, well, that's where Markus comes in lol
It's called speed limiter. I'm a GTS 300 touring owner. And I'm stuck with it. 😂
I've seen they have new parts that will remove it now :)
My old GTS 200 could get up to 93 mph GPS with a Jcosta variator. It had a carburetor though so there wasn't a fuel cut. The J Costa also ended up melting going up a big bridge so I had to go back to rollers.
Pretty cool until it got too hot lol
You need to change the rear abs indicator wheel it is incorrect and causes the scoot to run slower with an inaccurate speedo reading
Yup, ScooterWest.com sells a fix. Good call.
Two Ducati and one Vespa 300GTS Super. Step-through is key for hooking on about four large bags of groceries. My Vespa is my daily in NYC. I ride “moto style” with my butt sat back a few inches on the seat and my feet on the passenger pegs. This way I feel less awkward going from weekends on the motorcycles to weekdays on the Vespa.
It's nice to have options, right?
Come on we race the hell out of these Vespas, put on a 130 tyre on the front, it's amazing. You can add performance parts everywhere, it's not obsolete, you can get parts anywhere, give it a better chance, we tour over 1500miles,there's so much upside go for them people!?
I'm not saying they're bad bikes, but I prefer my small frame Vespa for in the city, and any of my motorcycles are better on the highway
Most bikes have their niche. Myself and a group of my friends go tearing about on back roads. Racing our honda metropolitans. Then meeting up at a destination that sells delicious beverages. It's great fun! No racing coming back home though. I have 2 motorcycles and 3 scooters and I can tell you that I like em all!
Variety is the spice of life 👌
Thanks
Thank you too!
What about for a rider 6’ 2”?
I’m 6’2, it’s a monster bike. You’ll love it.
If you want to look tough, ride a Harley. If you are tough, ride anything you darn well want to ride.
As both a Harley and a Vespa owner... well said. I agree.
Belts on big motorcycles are different and expensive. Belt on scooter is tens of €s .. I keep my my old one under the seat and the tools to change it. 3 tools, les then 10 min. job on the side of the road.
Nice, good that you have the know how to do that on the side of the road. I had to rescue a friend last summer from the other side of town when her belt exploded on her and left her stranded. Didn't even bother trying to fix it for her just towed her to her place!
@@YouMotorcycle Yes, you said it in the video. I am engineer, working on machines in factories all day long..I have develop a professional bias over the years and I am used to preparing for such an eventuality. The first thing I did when get in to scooter is to completely disassemble that thing to see how it works and what I needed to do it.
If I was computer programmer, I will be like ... Naaah, that is hardware problem 🤣
@@Stefan_trekkie lol I am dating an engineer... You sound like her 😂👌
Sorry for repeating myself. I forgot what I said in the video. It's been a year or two.
I'm 6'240, so the Vespa GTS300 does not seem so big to me. It is freeway capable, but not safe. In my state average freeway speed is 95 mph, and the Vespa doesn't come near that. Also I absolutely do not recommend anyone get the HPE model Vespa has been selling for the past few years. Ther original Vespa GTS300 had major maintenance intervals (valves, belts, rollers) every 12K miles. The new ones cut that in half. Now every 6K miles. It's a $500 service, and you have to find someone to take you to a Vespa dealer (IF there is one anywhere near) leave it for several days, then go back and pick it up. Your average mechanically inclined owner can do everything but the valves. I'm an auto mechanic, I can do the valves. But there is so much to do that it is better done over 2 days. Even if you do it, you are looking at around $260 worth of parts. Other than that HUGE issue on the HPE models, the Vespa is a wonderful machine. And expensive. Expect to pay $10K OTD for a new one. If properly maintained, the non HPE models can hit 100K miles. The HPE models seem to be less reliable.
Great comment and insight, thanks Gerald!
yea expensive OTD and BITG (back in the door). now to be fair moto maintenance is crazy $$ from honda to harley d now. $150.00- 200.00 an hour labor. they should offer legal advice if needed while waiting for that much. this should be pointed out to newbie buyers in vids more often.
@@jrnumex9286 hmm.. I've made a whole CZcams channel based around how-to content and never thought it needed to be said that specialists are expensive. I kinda just figured that's a given 🤔
Love the performance, but cant go back to that old school design. I wish they'd make a more modern, sportier design.
Just get a Piaggio scooter then. They're the makers of Vespa. The Piaggio scoots are often better and more modern. Vespa scooters are usually a little classier, better in finish, but a bit more limited with what they can do by sticking to a classic style. Hope this helps.
They are so much fun to drive ……so much fun !
Absolutely, love my GTS 250!
Limiter has gone on the 2023 model plus the front suspension has been redesigned.
Thanks Dave. Rev limiter was raised? Any details on that?
Some of those comparison comments on 250 vs 300 were valid up until the 300 HPE came out. Torque wise alone, that comparo alone doesn't stand anymore. There are also other things people need to be aware, GT 250 is now a ~14 yr old scooter, simply put in GT/GTS terms it comes with its own set of problems, issues and age related quirks.
Granturismos in general don't age garacefully like a P or PX do. The design is much more complex with many extras thrown in the mix that could go sideways. Also in many countries where wet, humid weather and salt covered roads in winter dominate, cause havoc with the bodywork and the undercarriage. Having the main frame still made of pressed soft steel is both an advantage and a curse.
Anyway, I digress. I used to own 2009 GT 250 which I sold last year for GTS 300 HPE SS. And boy what a difference that made, including the new design clues and upgrades which also makes it loot a lot more attractive that the previos one based on a 2003 GT 200 design.
Few things or upgrades I noticed - brakes are now much more responsive and I don't mean because of ABS, suspension has gotten an upgrade, it's both little stiffer and more responsive/dynamic. Steering wheel wobble/vibration at around 60km/h is now gone. Odometar is both simplified now and easily readable. The side stand is also fixed so it's not a hazard to use like it was on older models - I use it all the time now, on GT200 I wouldn't dare. The whole exhaust pipe body is FINALLY being made of black-coated Stainless steel - something we have been crying for since the very first Granturismo 200. This is one of the main reasons I won't be looking for an aftermarket exhaust upgrade on my HPE.
There are other cosmetic upgrades worth of mention too. Removable plastic cowl bottom strips have sharper edges and now go all the way to under the license plate, rear light has a new more classic looking chrome frame, shorter rear view mirrors, new (much better looking IMO, a nice throwback to their vintage models) elegant horn cover which now goes all the way to the bottom of front shield.
Piaggio also made sharper front leg shield sillouette, then there's LED lights, LED DRLs and the list goes on.
That said, for those who are into larger frame scooters and aren't much in the details, GT250 would be a good starter Vespa to get that 'feel' about it and at some stage upgrade to a newer model of their choosing.
I agree with most of what you're saying, but that's enough of a write up to be it's own separate video, probably called: "Vespa GTS - Past vs Present" - a whole other topic altogether.
I think your last sentence kind of gets at the gist of it: Most first time Vespa 300 owners aren't necessarily as into the details as you or I, so their decision might be simplified down to: ABS + TCS, versus saving $5,000+.
Personally, I would save my money. Bigger bikes are better at doing bigger bike things than even the newest Vespa 300 is, and saving $5,000 means you get a free bigger bike to go with your GTS. We bought a used BMW 650GS with ABS for less than that and it's 10x better for highways, touring, and off-road adventuring. Paired with a Vespa for more local/urban stuff it's a great mix. The two of them cost less than a new GTS300 and gives you much more range in your riding.
I wanted one but not gona pay 4500k to have ABS which is important to have for the exam here in switzerland so not gona get one after all but they are nice
Is ABS necessary to pass the test there? How does it work?
@@YouMotorcycle no no but you need to drive 50km/h and then do a full brake without falling or having the rear end slip which is much easier with abs
@@pipolebnene why not just apply less rear brake if that's a concern? I would just practice in a closed parking lot if worried about it. Only one of my half dozen bikes has ABS. I'm not riding around with my rear end fishtailing everywhere every time I want to come to a stop lol. You'll be fine man it's no sweat. We've been coming to stops on motorcycles with no abs for 100 years. Easy peasy :)
I think 300 cc³ is too much engine for a scooter destinated to commute. The CVT works really well but you lose engine braking and braking takes a little bit more
All depends, when I was commuting to downtown the 150cc is fine, but on my commute to outside of downtown the 300 probably would be better as I take the highway for a couple exits, so I take the motorcycle instead.
Can 2 ppl fit on this
Yup, absolutely
I just upgraded from the primavera to the gts
How do you like it?
@@YouMotorcycle I literrly just drove it home a few hours ago and omg what a difference it is going from a 150-300. I'm happy I did. Can't wait to go motocamping.
Awesome! I'm leaving for a road trip later this month myself! :)
How would this fit a 6' 195lb male?
Best to sit on one and see but you're only about an inch taller than me so I think you'd be okay.
hard to find a decent used vespa on these islands. Either its over priced (2015 gt300 w 23k miles asking $6,500. or it looks damaged) Someday hopefully....Craigslist is a daily ritual. Ride safe. Aloha.
Hey Jon, bummer! You should check out @MicBergsma 's channel he's based in Hawaii now and has been making content on Vespas and other scooters for years. He's probably my favorite scooter content creator.
@@YouMotorcycle thanks...will do. Appreciate it.
On Bonaire there are a lot of scooters. They are modified to go a lot faster than the originals. Everyone has fun on them. Gotta be careful in the evening though because donkeys and goats are everywhere.
@@YouMotorcycle @micbergsma is working on a VW bus lately. Jon should see if mic has a scooter for sale I would love to get one from him then I know the quality of the scooter would be great.
The new GTS 300 HPE can go a bit faster. Mine can go up to about 135 KPH.
Hey, thanks for leaving a comment! :) Is that 135 km/hr on your speedo, or 135 km/hr verified by GPS?
@@YouMotorcycle On a GPS, but I have to turn traction control off. If traction control on it can go around 130 KPH.
Very cool. Thanks for letting me know this!
Your technical comments on the instability of this scooter running on higher speed tracks are very intelligent and appropriate. It is excellent for day-to-day activities within cities as it is quite agile in this situation. Its price in Brazil is prohibitive. Grateful.
Hey, long time no see! I agree with you 100%.
Love a CVT, easy to repair also
Clean, efficient, practical, fun!
It’s not about speed ! Vespa is an Italian icon. A work of art . If I want to go fast I’ll take plane !!!!
No, it's not about speed, but that doesn't mean that people don't want to know what the limits are
Any judgment sent my way for riding a Vespa is a reflection of their insecurity, not mine. It's a fun and economical way to get around town.
100%. Love my small frame Vespa. Looking for a newer 150 to upgrade to.
That's what I have. 2015 Sprint 150
it covers all my needs.@@YouMotorcycle
@@nathantherealtorsonoma Nice. I'm currently on a Vespa S. I'm thinking either a fuel injected LX150 (hard to find) or a Primavera 150. I did the rectangular headlight thing, I want to switch it up and go circular for the next bike.
There is nothing like carrying a full week’s worth of groceries with ease.
😂👌
Italian style or just plain old hairdresser bike?
Depends on whether or not you're a hairdresser I guess? I have six motorcycles counting the Vespa in the garage... It's probably the most fun per cc.
Fuel pump cost for dealer is $400+.
Is there an aftermarket alternative?
Dollars to donuts Vespa riders probably got bigger balls than I do. I'll do 90mph all day long on my Softail but I can't imagine doing 77 on that little thing on the interstate. Lmao. Am I wrong?
Many may! Many have the reputation within those who work in the industry of being primadonnas. It's a mixed bag. I suspect those with Vespas + other bikes are probably the more down to earth ones, and those with nothing but Vespas and a fragile sense of superiority casting a shadow over their inner-insecurity probably don't have two strong legs to stand on.
It's very similar to Harley owners in that sense. You have guys who live to ride their Harleys and clock tens of thousands of miles a year on them. Then you have guys who buy a Harley because they're low-key insecure and afraid people will make fun of them if they ride anything else... They do a few thousand miles a year, if even, and mostly neglect their machines.
The beauty of the motorcycle world my man. It takes all kinds to make this place spin :)
@@YouMotorcycle Wife and I just got a Vespa Sprint 150. We love it, just drive around the neighborhood, to the store, short trips. Not going in huge traffic yet, we've only been riding a month. What I notice though is that even going 40-45 miles an hour I feel like it feels....light. Like I could blow over with a strong wind. Does the 300 feel heavier subjectively as you drive it?
You won't blow over with a strong wind so not to worry about that. The Vespa GTS 300 feels heavier, but in my opinion not in a good way, the GTS 300 feels top heavy. For a heavy motorcycle, it's light, but for a light motorcycle, it's clumsy . The Sprint 150 is a terrific small two wheeler. I really enjoy 150cc Vespas. But when it comes to 300 cc bikes, I much prefer 300cc motorcycles to the Vespa GTS 300.
I think you did the part about the CVT completley wrong. You basically said that if you never maintain it it will break. That goes for everything. The CVT is not the only system in the world that is prone to catastrophic failure if not maintained properly. It is a very simple, dry and completley mechanical system that is easier to work on (than regular seq gearboxes) and takes about 20 minutes of reading to understand the basics of.
Otherwise good points and you made a good video, thumbs up!
Yes, if you never maintain anything, like say the drive belt on a Harley, eventually the belt will break... But you'll get ten times more life out of the belt on the cruiser than the belt in the scoot. That was supposed to be the jist of my point but maybe it wasn't communicated clearly
i sold my scooter to get "cooler" bikers, what a huge mistake that was, now theyre expensive and a lot of people want one
Always keep a scooter in addition to the cooler bike(s) 😜
👍🇫🇮
Fuel injection?
@@YouMotorcycle yes 😊
I think it should also be mentioned about the fact that a step through design scooter seems to be safer when it comes to insurance company wright outs/reports. Insurance companies have saw that because of the step through design if the vehicle is ever in an accident your least likely to get into a severe injury compared to a motorcycle.
Because of the fact that you're writing on the motorcycle in both legs are strapped on the motorcycle if the bike goes down it's going to take you along with it and you have less control when you're on the ground compared to the step through design of a scooter where most riders or people tend to hop off and then the bike hits the ground.
This was said in insurance company reports on this repeating what they wrote down and what they overall have witness with accidents. So don't yell at the autistic guy because he reads through information that some people's feelings might get hurt with 🙄
Very interesting. I've never heard that before.
Flip side to that is, because the body is part of the frame, and all metal, it makes replacement costs in case of an accident much more expensive, as the whole bike often gets written off, rather than just having some plastic fairings replaced... but that's Vespa-specific and doesn't relate to other step-through scooters, which are mostly wrapped in plastic.
@@YouMotorcycle Yes.
Most to all of the time in a accident the Insurance company will pay you out for the value of the bike and not fix it. I have seen quite a few vespas being marked as a salvage title because of a small accident and because the frame would more than likely be tweeted
They are not safe if you use both hand brakes. You can’t hang on the handles like an old foot brake model. I know because I had a dread accident. I stopped but fell to the side against a curb and knocked the breath out of me. I could have stopped and held on the handgrips on my foot brake model.
Why not?
@@rmnffx exactly. Same as when you're grabbing the clutch and the brake at the same time on a motorcycle. You don't suddenly just lose control 😂
The open portion in the front of the seat allows a lady wearing a dress to ride without a problem.
I thought you were going to say "without panties"!!! 😂😂
Liked "small pee pee"
😂
It’s not about your genitals being small!
It’s simply that new Vespas are not the same. They were never fast. But at least they had some style. They are slower than they used to be, they are heavier than they used to be, they have a style than they used to have. They are really only good for inner city use! Or at the beach! You need an actual larger wheel motorcycle in order to get out of a jack asses way!! Or else you’ll get run over!!
Those felt drives are extremely expensive to have worked on all the time! They cost a few hundred dollars in parts and labor to replace them! CVT transmissions are no good for doing burnouts!
And doing burnouts is the most important part of motorcycle riding! lol
Try a 2022 GTS 300. I just got one. You might feel differently. Your reviews are nice but becoming stale, sorry.
I wish I could just snap my fingers and get to review whatever bike I want. Sadly, I can't, so I'm doing the best I can here.
But the reality is, even if the HPE is that much better, and we ignore all the issues people are having with them burning oil and having to top up oil every 1000 miles (if they do a lot of highway riding)... if a GTS250 is even 80% as much bike as the new GTS 300 HPE is, but costs a quarter to a third of the price, it's still good advice to consider the 250 for those who are just taking their first steps into Vespa or into a large frame Vespa. You can always buy the brand new one later, but you can try on the cheaper alternative first, get almost the same experience, and lose very little if you want to sell it and get a new one the next year.
a 300 is too powerful for it thats probably why the limit in speed
Too powerful for what?
Two reasons why I wouldn't buy a Vespa. First thing is that the wheels are too small and the second reason is the too high of price.
The wheels are too small for what exactly? Were you thinking of going off roading on a scooter or something? Also, brand new they are expensive, but why not buy used then? My red GTS 250 was extremely cheap and almost brand new.
Small wheels make potholes much more dangerous and once in a while you have to jump a curb. And yes, sometime a detour forces you to go off road. Dirt roads with ruts will put you down. A friend of mine had very serious road rash because he hit a chicken.
@@garyaltenburger6667 lol where do you live?? I haven't had any issues with my GTS250's 12" wheels. Even on the highway it's great. See my other Vespa videos. I did one about the GTS on the highway a few months ago
Different strokes for different folks. Vespa must do most things right because of their popularity and people paying the premium prices.
3:00 no, speeding up cause someone on your butt is totally scared rookie move. hold your own, move right a tab if able.
Our population density doesn't allow for moving right all the time. Typically while commuting we are riding beside people. It's always better to have more options than less options, so being able to pull ahead should it make sense to is an advantage, not a disadvantage.
In the US. Scooters will get you mocked & they don’t attract women!! They attract a few older women. However most of the younger ones will mock you.
On one hand you could just not care.On the other hand it’s annoying getting mocked all the time!!
It makes it unenjoyable to ride a motorbike that you get mocked for riding!
Besides motorcycles make men & women more attractive!!
And old-fashioned vespa is pretty cool in other countries!!
Who cares what people think?
250 does not have abs and asr and neither does 300 untill 2015.
Yup, you get about 80% of the bike with the 250s, for about a fraction of the price. Have to make some sacrifices somewhere.
One thing to mention is that the '15-'18 GTS300 models (like the red one in the video) have the ESS pivoting front suspension which really made a difference and keeps wobble under control under sharp cornering. Not sure why Piaggio got rid of it. Speed difference between 250 and 300 is like 2 mph. 77 v. 79mph! Great review. @@YouMotorcycle
@@donnyo639 thanks for that extra bit of insight that I wasn't aware of, and thanks for the compliment!
Wane, kerr
don't be a wanker
The newer vespas are ugly! Most of the dealerships are liars! There’s no two strokes anymore!! They’re not good for racing around!! Other scooters or faster because they weigh less!! The new vespers have no style!! It’s all about making it, pollute less, useless fuel and they make you pay up to twice as much! Just for the pleasure of driving something that has no style & is slow!!
Oh wow the Vespa name!! Is the Vespa name still worth the money!!
Don't buy it!
Agreed. If you think it's ugly, it sounds like it isn't for you... Then again, I think my BMW adventure bikes are ugly, and I love them so much I keep buying more.
A scooter on the freeway? Better take your meds
Why? It did 120 km / 70 mph just fine: czcams.com/video/yc_vzPXRWNA/video.html
Don't be negative. I love Scooters. You're obviously not. Your review is not worth looking at. Who are you, anyway??
What a strange comment full of bad grammar lol
"I love Scooters. You're obviously not."
If you wanna ride "sportily" buy a sport bike😅
Plenty of motorcycles you can ride aggressively that aren't sportbikes