I bought a Vespa towards the end of the summer and I must admit that the maneuvrability and handling of this scooter is very good. I bought it new with all the guarantees and specials. The replacement parts are cheaper than other scooters, but take time to order.

The look of the scooter has barely changed in 20 years and has great classic/retro value. While purchasing this machine I did realise that the resale value is very good...I even saw a C reg Vespa for £1100! Additionally, many of these are stolen a year so do make sure you lock it to a lamppost whenever possible...you could have an alarm and both wheels locked, but at the end of the day people steal the ones that are easy to lift and put in a van.

One of my major gripes against the scooter is the 4 gears on the left-hand side handlebar which between 1st, Neutral and 2nd can get stuck and cause all kinds of bother: you think you are in 1st gear and before you know it are slowly pulling away at lights while being honked at in 2nd gear. Also after long rides the wrist does take quite a pounding from the constant changing through gears.

I do have problems with the scooter because I use to own a motorcycle which is sturdier and more responsive. The scooter is very light and not really made for 2 passengers. A slight loss of the steering will cause the bike to fall over. Additionally, there is no space for the helmet under the seat like other scooters, but it does have a spare tire...which I could never envisage myself replacing and have no clue how to replace given the situation.

Overall it is a fun ride and can take a London city traffic jam in a heartbeat, but do be careful when riding at high speeds, because although it can go fast (100kph), the sturdiness is not there to go with it!