1981 Vespa P 200 E
Summary:
Nice powerful scooter, but a bit flawed
Faults:
Main bearings.
Dead CDI.
Gearbox cruciform.
Rear hub studs.
General Comments:
Quite a torquey motor, with plenty of pulling power and reasonable acceleration. Tops out at about 65-70, and cruises comfortably at 55, even with a passenger.
Very light steering, great round town, but very poor over 50 mph with a very vague front end; the front brake is a bit weak on this drum braked model. Suspension is soft with a big seat, so it's comfortable but bouncy. Gearbox is very clunky.
My model was not well looked after, so suffered a few reliability problems, but all pretty easy/cheap to fix. Does about 75 MPG, looks quite cool, and is practical transport.
Gearbox cruciforms seem to only last 15,000 miles and are tough to replace, but only £15.
Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 3rd January, 2014