Memphis Vespa / Metro Moto

For the 2009 model year, Vespa gives us the Vespa S scooter for North America.   If you want a Vespa for a quick trip over to Ms. Cordellia’s, or for some of the best authentic Mexican food at Las Tortugas, or just to pick up some batteries for the Apple TV remote, and you don’t want to break the bank, the entry level Vespa S50 could be exactly what you need.   Don’t be confused by “entry-level”.   The only reason this Vespa is cheaper than a 150 or 300 is the engine size.   The fit and finish of the S is that of any Italian machine.   You can almost imagine Luigi tightening every last bolt with a torque wench. 

Both sporty and dynamic, the Vespa S50 gets 75 mpg on a 2.3 gallon tank, and has a top speed of 39mph, plenty fast for navigating Union Ave, or shooting down Poplar.  Design elements of the S include a red coil front suspension, a sleek sport saddle with white piping (there is an optional two-passenger touring seat), a standard open front cargo compartment, and a retro rectangular headlight and side mirrors.

Because it is a Vespa, expect the S to hold its resale value better than other entry-level scooters.   Post it on craigslist, and prepare for a barrage of emails – not that anyone would ever sell their Vespa, but if you’re down to your last dollar, and need some money for late night at Krystal….

The S comes in Montebianco White, Shiny Black, Tamorina Orange (some may say UT Orange), and our favorite, Dragon Red.