A Complete Guide for Buying a Vespa
When buying your first Vespa, the decision to make can be overwhelming. Whether large-frame, small-frame, automatic, manual, modern, vintage, used, or new, there are a lot of options to choose from. And most individuals end up making a wrong decision.
But by enlightening yourself and considering some factors, you won’t spend a lot on gas. Plus, you will feel freer while on the road, all thanks to the open nature of riding a Vespa scooter. So if you are looking to buy a Vespa for sale, whether to run errands or commute, the following are tips to help you:
1. Look at the Cost Breakdown
For new Vespa scooters, expect to spend between $4,000 and $8,000. While for used ones, you can spend around $2,600.
After the purchase, you will have to buy protective gear, like a DOT-approved helmet, gloves, and eye protection.
Helmets alone cost about $100. So, you can spend approximately $380 on gear. Other costs to expect when buying a Vespa scooter may include the following:
- Registration
- Motorcycle Insurance
- Gas
- Maintenance
2. Choose Between a Modern or Classic Vespa
These two types vary from one another, and it will be clear if a classic or modern is suitable for you. Modern Vespa scooters are comfortable. They have automatic gears – meaning you don’t have to worry about changing them when driving. This makes it much easier to drive.
Modern Vespa scooters are also reliably provided you regularly check the oil, use the right gas, and stick to a maintenance schedule. But the engine, as well as other parts, are more advanced. So getting a solution to the engine’s problem will be a little complicated.
On the other hand, classic Vespa scooters are eye-catching. Like older cars, classic Vespa scooters require more TLC than modern Vespa scooters. Most people say that it requires more maintenance and is susceptible to hiccups.
But some people disagree. If you maintain and properly take care of your classic Vespa scooter, it will be running just fine.
3. Know How It Runs
Four-stroke engines often have a smooth and nice hum. In contrast, two-stroke engines sound similar to a weed whacker or gentle chainsaw.
The sound will be different if a Vespa scooter has a performance pipe. Four strokes have a throatier grumble, which sounds like things that are popping.
If it’s a four-stroke Vespa and it’s smoking, then you have a problem. And if it’s a two-stroke Vespa and it is not smoking, you also have a problem.
All these could be a sign that you have a worn cylinder. Ask Vespa’s seller to rev the engine. With the seller’s help, it should quickly respond and drop back down.
4. Check the Battery Life
Batteries make the most out of the cost of Vespa scooters. If you want to have the battery replaced, you will pay half the cost of the total price of a Vespa scooter.
So it is vital to school the type of battery and the average life expectancy. It is vital to determine whether the guarantee of the battery life that a manufacturer offers is huge.
Many manufacturers offer around three of warranty or guarantee on batteries. Normal batteries last for around seven years before you replace them.
But this may depend on how you use your Vespa scooter. That is because not charging enough, riding style, excessive cold/heat, over-charging, and other aspects affect the life of batteries.
5. Have a Look at the Brakes
You may test brakes without any test drive. If levers are broken off or go down, it means the Vespa doesn’t have brakes. And if you hold the brakes and cannot turn the wheel, it also means the Vespa doesn’t have brakes.
During a test drive, ensure the braking action is immediate when you apply the brakes. Plus, you need to pay more attention to whether your Vespa runs smoothly, or there are issues with axle adjustment. All these are noticeable during test rides.
6. Find a Perfect Size
Before buying any Vespa, it will be best to first sit on it and evaluate how it feels and its size. Things such as the seat’s height will make a great difference in whether it is comfortable and easy to use.
You may need to take note of Vespa’s storage capacity and determine whether it can meet your needs. Consider also whether there is sufficient storage for helmets, bags, and extra luggage.
7. Determine the Performance
It doesn’t matter what Vespa model you want to buy. You are assured of an impressive performance that translates to an enjoyable and engaging ride.
Many Vespa’s engines use modern power plants equipped with electronic fuel injection and a 3-valve cylinder head.
This offers a fuel-efficient performance and a responsive throttle feel. To top things all off, modern Vespa scooters are often equipped with safety features like even traction and ABS.
8. Prioritize Reliability
Vespa is commonly known for its reliability and dependability. It is not surprising to spot a Vespa scooter from the 1970s and 1960s kicking today and still alive.
As a matter of fact, the entire community of Vespa enthusiasts will continue thriving, even in local markets.
Meanwhile, modern Vespa models continue impressing enthusiasts with ease of maintenance and reliability. This makes them amazing options for individuals looking for a lightweight commuter.
9. Take Care of the Insurance
State laws need Vespa scooters to get insured for use on public roads. While Vespa scooters work under motorcycle policies, they are becoming popular for companies to rate scooters individually.
On average, full insurance coverage costs between $250 and $400 per year. But this depends on several factors, like the following:
- Driver’s experience
- Drive age
- Vehicle
The Takeaway!
With the rising fuel costs, many individuals are thinking outside the box when investing in a mode of transport. Vespa makes a perfect option for commuters, considering they require less fuel and are smaller than cars. And unlike cars, Vespa scooters are cheaper to buy and run.
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