How Much Does A Vespa Cost, Should You Buy One?

So, you’re in the market for a new toy. Got your eye on a Vespa. Trying to figure out if it’s worth the money. Well, let’s start at the beginning. How much does a Vespa cost? If you’re looking for yourself, your family, friends, or just curious – Here’s everything you need to know about how much it could cost you to own a Vespa – and if you’re making the right choice.

What Are The Benefits Of Vespa Motorcycles

Vespa shouldn’t be confused with your normal everyday scooter. The name itself is held highly among the many Italian legends in the bike world and the rest of the globe. It’s easy to see why it’s such an iconic brand with over 70 years of zooming around and over 16,000,000 Vespas currently putting along the streets

The reasons behind the popularity of the Vespa are endless. The main benefits of a Vespa boil down to:

• Affordability
• Easy handling
• Safe Reliable Performance
• Mobility
• Low Maintenance Cost

Vespa Pricing (New)

Alright, let’s get down to business. How much does a Vespa cost?  How does a Vespa price compare to competitors like the Honda Activa 125 and the Yamaha Fascinob. Is buying a Vespa a risk or will you get your money’s worth? The following are the prices of different bikes in the Vespa range (at MRSP):

1. Popular Vespa Models

• Vespa Primavera 50 4V – $ 3,999
• Vespa Sprint 50 4V – $ 4,099

2. Mid range Vespa Models

• Vespa Primavera 150cc – $ 5,349 
• Vespa Sprint 150cc – $ 5,649 

3. Top End Vespa Models

• Vespa GTS 300 HPE Yacht Club – $ 7,199
• Vespa GTS Super 300 Notte 300 – $ 7,299
• Vespa GTS 300 HPE Touring – $ 7,299
• Vespa GTS Supersport 300 HPE – $ 7,299
• Vespa GTSP Super Racing Sixties 300 HPE – $ 7,299
• Vespa Elettrica 30 MPH – $ 7,499
• Vespa SEI GIORNI 300 HPE – $ 7,749
• Vespa GTS Supertech 300 HPE – $ 7,749
• Vespa 946 – $ 10,499

Vespa Price Comparison

Vespa LX

Now, how does a Vespa compare in pricing to other competitor bikes in the market? Maybe a Vespa is not the right bike for you, so why would you decide to buy a Vespa over another brand?

Vespa Versus Yamaha Fascino

When comparing models, it’s important to make like for like comparisons. Make sure that both the Vespa and the Yamaha Fascino have similar specs like mileage, fuel range, engine size and price.

Using these criteria when making your comparison will give you  a better idea about which bike would be the better option. Before going into any purchase negotiation you should make sure that you have a good understanding behind questions like “How much does a Vespa cost?” Which you should have by the end of this article.

At face value, the models are offered at:

• Yamaha Fascino (Top Range) ~ $950

Vespa LX 125 vs Honda Activa 125

The Vespa remains more popular when compared with the Honda Activa 125. The attention to detail on the Vespa have offered riders around the world superior performance and smooth, easy handling on the road. When comparing the price, the Vespa does sell for a higher price, which, very understandably, is not appealing to many potential buyers who may have budgetary constraints. Rest assured, the Honda Activa will be just fine.

For those that are looking for the most bang for their buck, the higher priced Vespa is a good option, not to mention the resale value down the road. If you manage to hold onto it for long enough, it may even become a highly valuable collectors item.

• Honda Activa 125 (Top Range) ~ $1000

Is a Vespa Right For Me & Who Should Buy A Vespa

A question many have stopped to ponder. An answer not many have found. Hopefully this article will help. 

The best way to find out if you’re the right candidate for a Vespa, it’s best to start with understanding the pro’s and con’s to becoming an owner, and the ups and downs of the Vespa model you’re considering. Let’s get it into it.

Pros To Owning A Vespa

Fuel Consumption and Mileage

Many modern day scooters are favored over their 4-wheeled companions because of their incredible fuel economy and gas mileage. Various models in the Vespa range have different engines which means different gas consumption. Some Vespas are able to reach over 100 miles per gallon, making them incredibly light on gas and much more eco friendly and efficient than a car.

Affordable Pricing

With scooters being one of the more affordable modes of transport, the Vespa is no different. The price range varies across Vespa models ensuring an affordable pricing structure for different commuters.  Picking up a second hand or even a third hand Vespa could save you quite a bit of money. Just make sure to do a thorough inspection of the bike before you hand over the cash. See this article for our tips on how to inspect and buy a used motorcycle. 

If you’re on a budget, you most probably don’t need the top of the range Vespa either. You can live without the extra this and extra that. At the end of the day, unless you’re already looking for a top of the range model, is that USB port and 4.5 inch  4.5-Inch Color TFT display really going to make you that much happier 20,000 km down the road?

If you answered yes – you already know your decision. The 2020 Vespa GTS SuperTech 300 HPE selling for $7,749 is your best bet. Just kidding. It might not be. It only comes in one color and has a fuel economy of 73 MPG. If that’s not an issue. Then you definitely know your choice – for real this time.

As the world becomes more conscious of fuel emissions and going green a lot of people are concerned about the harm to the environment. If that describes you, you may want to consider something a little different like the really neat modern electric scooter. The downside is the upfront cost will set you back over $10,000 but if properly maintained, you could get your money back in the long run while simultaneously playing your part to save the environment.

When most people ask “how much does a Vespa cost?” they already have a figure in their mind which shouts “expensive!!”. This is not necessarily true. Keep shopping around for the model you want at the price point you’re willing to pay.

Don’t be too fast to reject a used bike. You can find plenty on craigslist. If the seller has looked after it properly there’s a good chance there are many ponies left in the engine. Scooters are generally used for short commutes which means that buying the right second hand Vespa could be just like buying brand new.

If you ever plan to sell your Vespa again, I’ve put together an awesome guide to selling a motorcycle on craigslist.

Insurance

The average insurance fee across the US for motorcycles is  $702 Which is less than a car. But a scooter costs even less. Depending on the insurer and other factors of the Vespa like age, mileage and model, you could find insurance for as little as $250 per year.

Cons to Owning A Vespa

Highway Access

If being able to access the highway on a scooter is a deal breaker for you, be warner that not all scooters are equipped with the engine capacity to be deemed highway worthy.  The good news is that some models, usually the more top of the range ones are fully legal to drive on the highway. Many states impose a minimum engine capacity of 150cc +  to be legally allowed access to a freeway.

Pro Tip:

It’s always a good idea for the buyer to take the bike for a test ride. It’s often difficult to check for any shakes, wobbles or odd engine sounds on small roads. If you have freeway access or are able to find a safe road, try take your potential future bike for a solid test ride. You don’t need to go far or too fast. Just focus on feeling or hearing anything that doesn’t seem right.

Location Based Regulations & Pricing

Different states have different laws around what exactly is defined as a motorcycle. Some states consider scooters and mopeds to be different based on their top speeds and engine capacities. Some states consider scooters to be motorcycles. For example, Florida has the following regulations:

Two-Wheeled Vehicles Defined

Motorcycle— If your vehicle has an engine displacement of more than 50 cc, Florida considers it a motorcycle and you need to register it.

Mopeds—Your vehicle is a moped if it has:

– 3 wheels or fewer
– A seat
– Pedals that allow you to propel the vehicle
– A motor of two-brake horsepower or less
– The ability to go no faster than 30 MPH
– An automatic power-drive system
– A displacement of 50 cc or less (if it has an internal combustion engine)

Scooters—Your vehicle is a scooter if it has:

– No seat or saddle
– 3 wheels or less- The ability to go no faster than 30 MPH

For a quick check of your state try this cool online map

Final Thoughts On Buying A Vespa

With all that said, the Vespa remains to this day, an icon in the world of two wheels. It’s simple styling, smooth riding, and attention to detail have lead you to read this entire article.

That is the power of strong branding. Branding that would not exist if the Vespa scooter did not live up to the expectations. Without brand loyalty, ratings are just another number.