Vespa ET4 125cc

The interest was enormous and much was written about the "50th anniversary vespa" that was released 1996. The ET4, that was the result can be described as a modern scooter which connects well to the vespa tradition of the 50:s and 60:s. Compared to the Hexagon is has clearly returned towards the vespa looks. This is the first 4-stroke vespa and a such it differs to the 2-strokes one is used to find from the Piaggio factory. As all new scooters it has automatic gear-box, disc brakes in front. The engine is rated 125cc, 12 HP at 7750 r.p.m.

PROS: The first impression is very good. The scooter is easy to handle and not as bulky as Hexagon. When you hold the brake handle and give the electric start button a soft push you hardly notice the engine starting. the sound is incredibly low and the running extremely smooth- no more rally200 bonking and shaking. The instrumentation is clear, good looking and well disposed. Riding away one notice a smooth acceleration from very low rev.s and an homogeneous acceleration up til ~90 km/h. Brakes are well balanced and for someone used to the old drum brakes it is a relief that technology moves on.

CONS: The  rear mirrors that are placed somewhat close - I see more of my elbows than the cars behind. BUT, and this is a serious but: I miss the racing feeling and no wonder. The scooter weighs 111 kg and with a 80 kg driver like myself, the combination 125 cc 4-stroke and 12 hp is not sufficient. Perhaps it is the setting of the automatic gear-box but the feeling is after a while dull, not to say boring. The ET4 is convenient, smooth, well behaved and forgiving to ride but at the same time plain dull. When taking a passenger of the same size as myself it is even worse, It feels like I'm 15 again and back on my old moped riding up a hill. I must though put in a disclaimer: Others who have tested the ET4 do not share my opinion. The risk that I have tested an item not representative due to running in and mis-adjusted gear-box can NOT be disregarded.

The bottom line is that if you want a smooth and environmentally clean scooter with classic but still modern looks it might be an option. If you want fun while riding there are better options. Just as a parenthesis: I tried the Piaggio 125 Skipper just after and suddenly I recognized the vespa feeling again. It is possible to make modern automatic scooters that are fun to ride.