Vespa GTS 150: Who should buy?

As the pioneers of the scooter segment, Vespa has always held a legendary place in the pantheon of motorcycle manufacturers. The scooter at that time was so different from anything plying the roads on two wheels that it might as well not be from the same planet. It created a complete departure from what a scooter was supposed to be – right from how the wheels were attached to the seats. Over the years, Vespa has only cemented that approach to two-wheeler design and brought it to the modern age.

The Vespa GTS 150 Super 3v i.e. is an evolution of that same expression and aesthetic that made Vespa such a success back then. But it is much more than that.

We begin with the Vespa GTS price. At RM 18473 it is very expensive by every yardstick. It is outside the realm of every other two-wheeler with similar engine capacity. For comparison, a brand new 2018 Honda PCX comes at just RM 10999 and seems like a bargain. But that is the nature of things with Vespa. Vespa brings the luxury niche of the scooter segment. It is the Hermes bag of the scooter world and comes with the same sort of designer looks, exclusivity, quality, clientele, and of course price. So, for people with lightweight wallets, try looking for other reasonably priced options.

Speaking of designer bags, we are not kidding about the styling of this thing. The Vespa GTS exudes cool. It is a mix of classic retro styling and modernity like nothing else. If the price exemplified the word exorbitant, then the styling exemplifies the word chic. The design preserves the classic lines while also updating them for the present. Nothing looks out of place or missing proportion. The lines are undisturbed by any errant panel gaps. Even the seat looks exquisite. 

The finish of the metal parts is pushed to the level of svelte by the 4 color schemes. Even the minimal stickering on the side adds to its appeal. The Super moniker also awards the scooter with cooling vents on both sides of the engine and apron. Then there is the tasteful use of chrome on select pieces. The Vespa GTS is not just a scooter but a classy piece of designer equipment. Its appeal is of that infectious variety that inspires its rider to look as good as their vehicle. It will not look out of place on a runway in Milan. So, like a piece of designer wear, it is only meant for people who can pull off that look.

However, the design serves another function here. The Vespa GTS is the biggest scooter in Vespa’s lineup. With a seat height of 800 mm it can accommodate taller riders more comfortably than many other scooters. The high seat is complemented by the larger legroom and the slightly more forward handlebars that give the rider space to stretch out.

The larger size equates to a large under seat storage area that can an open face helmet. The apron houses a larger glove compartment and a hook for hanging things. The otherwise conventional instrument panel is aided by a tiny multifunctional digital display that includes two trip meters.

The scooter has great handling characteristics thanks to its tight turning radius and compact dimensions. The GTS can easily be put to its paces on short commutes and comes really handy with tight traffic conditions. The rear monoshock and the twin coil spring front (4 step adjustable for preload) suspension and the luxurious seat complies very well with bad roads. The wide 120/70 front and 130/70 rear tires give it a good grip. The scooter has a reassuring weight to it that provides a stable ride at any speed. A very good commuter then for the poshest of office goers.

Also, included in the GTS specifications list is a Euro 4 compliant 154.8 cc 3 valve fuel injected single cylinder engine that produces a healthy 11.67 hp at 7500 rpm and 12 Nm of torque at 5000 rpm. The engine is mated to an equally smooth and refined CVT. The scooter is capable of reaching speeds of up to 101 kmph. Vespa continues its reputation for frugal engines with a mileage figure of 41.6 kmpl and comes with a 7-litre fuel tank.

Underneath the charming and luxurious exterior then, is a very capable and practical scooter. It can be used as an everyday commuter but it is more of a style or rather lifestyle statement. Like a fashion accessory, anyone can ride the Vespa GTS but not everyone can own it.