Test: Vespa LX 125 3V

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Vespa LX 125 3V test

The Vespa – the original

The number of emulators is growing steadily, but nobody can match the original Vespa. Now it is getting a new three-valve engine.

The eternally young good-mood scooter from Italy is now 66 years old under its sheet steel body, and it has remained true to itself over the years: small wheels, deep step-through, no bulky center tunnel and a single-arm, drawn swing arm for the front suspension are also its characteristics in 2012. A lot has happened with the engine, however: On the one hand, three valves take care of the supply of fresh mixture and the disposal of the exhaust gases; on the other hand, the engineers have shifted the bore / stroke ratio of the cylinder in the direction of long-stroke. However, anyone who expects a lower speed level will be disappointed: According to the data sheet, peak power and maximum torque are available at the same speed as in the previous model. The maximum values ​​also improved only slightly. In return, the Italians promise a markedly lower consumption; at a constant 50 km / h, the 125cc Vespa should only swallow 1.8 liters per 100 kilometers.

D.Unfortunately, there was no time to check this assertion at the time of the drive, but even if it were to be true, the realization would be pointless: Who drives a constant city pace for two hours? The small wheels encourage much more to bustle through the traffic – and to slow down the small rubbers carefully when wet – ABS is not available.

Noticed

positive
● Timelessly beautiful
● Good workmanship
● Optional equipment available ex works
● Good-natured and economical
● Very agile
● Easy wheel change

negative
● Moderate driving performance
● No ABS available
● Nervous and sensitive to potholes
● Expensive

Manufacturer

The Vespa S 125 3V is available for 200 euros more. The most striking difference is the angular headlights, the cockpit is also designed a bit sportier, and it does without the lockable compartment in the leg shield.

In the city
This is the Vespa business! The narrower the streets, the denser the traffic, the more comfortable she feels. The small wheels allow it to be turned on a manhole cover and to drive a well-kept pothole slalom. The latter is also necessary, because the short spring travel can do little.

On the country road
The 125 is always good for a summer outing in the country. If, however, longer distances are pending, you need to be able to take on, because the soft seat and the rather crumpled seating position for taller drivers will eventually become a nuisance. A small picnic fits perfectly in the compartment under the bench.

On the autobahn
In the motherland of Italy, a 125cc is not allowed to drive on the autobahn – fortunately in Germany it has a choice. Sometimes the motorway is even the faster option for the Vespa – the A81 from Ludwigsburg-Nord to -Sud is an example – but the driver will carefully consider each individual case.

Manufacturer

The displays for speed and fuel level are easy to read. The indicator lights light up moderately, the LCD clock is very small.

engine
The eight-liter is fully developed and, thanks to the variator, is incredibly easy to drive. Driving performance is not his profession, he should be economical.

landing gear
Incredibly agile, but nervous at higher speeds, and on top of that it has sparsely sprung and weakly damped. Beauty point for the swing arm in front.

Brakes
The Vespa decelerates well, only a little toothless when fully loaded. If in doubt, however, the tires lock up first, especially when it is wet.

Furnishing
The biggest pound of the Vespa is certainly the bench compartment; a fuel gauge is also not a given. In addition: high processing quality.

Comfort
People of moderate stature are well accommodated on the Vespa – also as a pillion passenger. The leg shield offers reasonable weather protection.

Suitable for beginners
Is the Pope Catholic? Of course, the Vespa is unreservedly recommended to all beginners – who want to pay the high price.

Technical specifications

Manufacturer

Characteristic and takes some getting used to to look at from the front: the single-sided swing arm.

engine Single cylinder four stroke
Displacement 124 cc
Power transmission Variator / belt
power 8.5 kW (11.6 hp) at 8250 rpm
Max. Torque 10.7 Nm at 6500 rpm
Front brake Disc (Ø 200 mm)
rear brake Drum (Ø 110 mm)
Front tires 110 / 70-11
Rear tire 120 / 70-10
Front / rear suspension travel 78/73 mm
Top speed* 93 km / h
Weight with a full tank 125 kg
Payload 175 kg
Tank capacity 8.3 liters, super
Colors Blue, green, red, black, white
Maintenance intervals 10,000 km
price 3990 euros including additional costs

* Factory specification

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