Hi,
I am trying to narrow down my choices about what scooter to buy. Beside local commuting I want to undertake extended road trips. With the intention NOT to make lots of miles per day but take the time to explore, "smell the roses" and take pictures.
Styling wise I love the Vespa GTS 300. However I am not sure how this scooter will do on the highway's around here. From where I live its pretty much impossible to get anywhere without having to travel a very busy highway with some steep inclines (101, 280, 92).
Also I wander about the stability and ride comfort (bad roads and back) in relation to the suspension and wheel size).
I prefer the step trough "European" style and I have looked at the other well known choices like the Burgman and Silverwing. But these are to much like a big motorcycle to me and defeating the purpose of my goals. The only "Maxi" scooter that I might consider is the TMax since it seating position is higher and it did not appear as big as the other Maxi scooters.
So far I have narrowed it down to these options:
Kymco GT 300i (16" wheels, 28HP) - 364 lbs - Wheel base 32" - Seat Hight 32"
Vespa GTS 300 (12" wheels, 22HP) - 326 lbs - Wheel base 31" - Seat Hight 31"
Yamaha T-Max (15" wheels, ??HP) - 489 lbs - Wheel base 62" - Seat hight 32"
* Dimensions are rounded to the nearest number.
I was not impressed with the quality and finish of the Kymco People 300 I saw earlier this year in a showroom. Someone at the dealer told me it had a rough ride. From what I have read the new 2012 model should have some mayor improvements. Since I haven't seen the new 2012 Kymco in person I wander that this forum can teach me :-)
The Piaggio BV500 forces me into a uncomfortable seating position and offers little protection. I never sat on a Aprillia Scarebo 500 but I have my doubts about the quality and dealer/distributor support.
Looking forward to your thoughts!