£TBC |10.5bhp | Four-stroke, single cylinder 125cc
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Vespa, has launched a new Sprint to replace its Vespa S. The original Sprint from the mid-1960s was a two-stroke geared scooter. While other European countries will have a 50cc two-stroke option, the UK will see a four-stroke 125cc engine, complete with ABS, which is due to hit dealers in May.
Tell me about the engine
The engine purrs beautifully through the torpedo exhaust and when easing back the throttle the response is immediate. Don’t be fooled, as this scooter is packing all sorts of new technology under its old-school styled looks.
It’s a new generation of motor – a single cylinder four-stroke with three-valves (2x intake and 1x exhaust) – which offers reduced emissions and an extra 30% economy than its predecessor, meaning it can now boast an impressive claimed 133mpg from the eight litre tank.
The lump is mounted on a double rear swingarm (as on the Vespa GTS); this means less vibration is passed through the handlebars, footboards and seat.
What’s the chassis like?
The Vespa features a pressed steel and arc welded frame, which gives it improved rigidity. This contributes to the good handling and a fantastic feeling of stability and control.
Vespa has made some changes to the front suspension and it now has ESS – Enhanced Sliding Suspension – instead of being fixed with two screws, there is a pin which allows the suspension to pivot on the bottom, allowing for greater movement and less friction. Overall the suspension coped with the cobbled streets well and larger bumps were dealt with too, making for a comfy ride.
Should I buy one?
If you’re a fan of the Vespa look and you’re after a great runaround, then this could be for you – not to mention the impressive mpg claims.
The design takes inspiration from previous models, including the 50 Special, by choosing a rectangular headlight. Sporty details such as the central tie with red detailing and the newly designed aluminium alloy wheel rims add to the dynamic look. In the UK it will be available in blue, red and yellow (not the white shown in some pictures), so you’ll be sure to stand out.
Accessories available include windscreen, footrest cover, graphic kits and a range of bags. The dash is clean and contains an analogue speedometer, with a digital display showing fuel level, odometer and two trip meters.
By moving the battery from under the seat into the central tunnel of the footrest, the Sprint benefits from an underseat capacity of 16.6 litres – the Vespa S had 14.3 litres – meaning you can fit in a full-face helmet easily.
There’s also a decent sized glovebox at the front for smaller items which opens by pushing in the ignition unit.
What’s it like to ride?
Nipping in and out of the crazy traffic in Rome, the Sprint did exactly what I wanted it to with its 10.5bhp – it was fast enough to be progressive and get me to the front when leaving the lights.
There’s plenty of room for taller riders too – courtesy of the lengthened frame – the footboards are nice and narrow so that when you’re not filtering through traffic, you can place your legs down with ease, which comes in handy for shorter riders.
The front disc brake and rear drum were strong and did their job well, both when braking sharply and when coming to a slower stop.
Tech Spec
Price: Around £3600 – TBC
Engine: Four-stroke, fuel injected, single cylinder 125cc three-valve
Power: 10.5bhp (7.9kW)
Dry weight: 121kg
Seat height: 790mm
Tank size: 8 litres
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