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New or Vintage scooter?
I'm going to buy my first scooter in 30 years around spring next year (when hope money available).
Although I owned a 100cc Vespa back then, I've no experience in the maintainance of scooters other than keeping them shiney and looking cool.
I love the original scooters but am concerned that if I buy one, if/when something needs done, it may be hard to get parts or someone with expert knowledge who won't add 000s to the repair price tag.
I'd be happy to learn to maintain it for myself but have no idea how realistic or otherwise that is.
I've researched on the internet to try and reach a decision on vintage or new. I went to Mickey Oates in Glasgow and had a look at the new Lambretta 125 and visited Glasgow Lambretta to look at LML's and Neco's. Out of that lot the LML's seem to be best for quality and value from the New camp which would give the novice scooter mechanic a warranty period and knowledge that spares/repairs shouldn't be a problem.
I'm well aware the puirists would turn their noses up at LML and am trying to keep the faith.
Any constructive thoughts or advise welcomed.
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by alan B'Stard M P on -
Go traditional. Get an original in good order
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Permalink Reply by Graeme Proudfoot on -
Finding parts is not a problem with classic scooters Malcolm, they are all remade and easily available online. The real problem is the time and effort needed to keep the scooter on the road. My advice would be, get an LML or PX and ride it. If you still want a classic later on, buy a wreck and spend time learning to fix it up. Most jobs on a scooter can be done with a basic tool kit but to begin with you will get frustrated and ruin the odd cable etc. That is really the only way to learn but in time you will be running a cable and rebuilding the carb with your eyes closed. Good luck.
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Permalink Reply by Malcolm Irving on -
Good suggestion Graeme, cheers.
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Permalink Reply by Ruby on -
Couldnt afford a scooter first time round and really didnt have a choice when i bought my first one two months ago. It had to be classic because it was my first so I went for a smallframe 125 primavera. I was talking last night about what to do when I pass my test as I would like something a tad more powerful so I tried out a px200 for size as I'm a short arse. Size was great but it just didnt have the look I was after. Ive been very lucky as through friends of friends ive managed to get spare parts and minor repairs for a steal. Theres usually someone to hand when it doesnt start as well. If ur out on a limb yourself though u would be better with a new one imho. Good luck. So far im having a ball on mine :-)
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Permalink Reply by Malcolm Irving on
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I'll be looking for a 200cc as I took my bike test too many years ago when I was 17. Opposite prob to you Ruby I'm 6'3" and about 14 & 1/2 stone so hope I won't look too big on a scooter!
Thanks for your comments and if you hear of anyone selling something nice let me know please :->
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Permalink Reply by Graham Barron on
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you might want to have a look at Vivo Scooters in Edinburgh...they retro fit a kit onto the LML or new Vespa, to make it look exactly like an older Vespa GS, that way you have the best of both worlds - the reliability of a new machine with the styling and looks of a vintage.
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Permalink Reply by Malcolm Irving on
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Had a look previously on line not sure if cost makes sence or having a pretend vintage scooter but understand that this gives an option.
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Permalink Reply by Glenn Tracey on
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I guess a lot depends on how much money you have available for the scoot.
If you have enough to buy a new one outright, you should have enough to get a fairly decent vintage one.
If you do go for a classic, save yourself some hassle and book it in for a service at a reputable scooter shop [not the local garage!]. It will cost a bit but will certainly ensure you have a fully functional reliable scooter ..... well, as reliable as they can be! :)
The odd little jobs that crop up later on you can do yourself....
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Permalink Reply by Gary D' on -
I've ridden and owned Lambretta's and Vespa's (including the honda 70's as a wee lad, with a few heavy hitter motorbikes inbetween for good measure). Just a suggestion Malcolm, do your homework. Read independant reviews, loads on the internet from reliable sources (funny, but some of the best reviews on scooters are on motorbike sites). Travel round the scooter dealers, check out new and rebuilds to get a feel and a test ride. Obviously look at your budget, running costs, uses (milage, show and/or ride) and more importantly your own individual tastes. Vintage, classic, modern rebuild or brand new auto, it doesn't and shouldn't matter. Get what you love, love what you get.
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Permalink Reply by Malcolm Irving on
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Very profound Gary, thanks for your thoughts.
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Permalink Reply by Paul Viola on -
hi Malcolm, I knew of an 05 plate Vespa PX 125 for sale, good solid scooter, just needs a wee bit of TLC, it has been garaged for the last year. £15 to tax and about £25 to get a MoT. It has done about 25k Km (i think but not much more). Its a nice gun metal grey with a nice speckle thru it. I owned it from new, and then sold it on to a friend, who then sold it to an other friend of ours.Its in the East End of Glasgow.
Give me a bell on 07734771086 if you want any more info
Cheers Paul
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Permalink Reply by Malcolm Irving on
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Thanks a lot for that Paul but I won't be ready to part with cash for this until about spring next year.
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