Great news for Vespa lovers, vespa is re-entering Indian markets but this times with its gearless models. Vespa along with LML as already played Indian market few years back. Vespa with Piaggio’s is about to set up new factory at Baramati, this was the same spot where LX125 was first manufactured.
The compact LX125 has timeless, classic styling that is just as seductive today as when first seen in the 1940’s. It’s a scooter with unisex appeal.
The handlebar shroud flows smoothly into nice palm grips, and the LX employs a rounded instruments cluster. There are meaty-feeling buffed alloy levers. You also receive a larger-than-expected front storage bay, which opens neatly with a push of the ignition key into its slot. Below, the ridged floorboard isn’t as accommodating as most modern scooter’s flat units, a sacrifice made to preserve the Vespa’s undiluted retro theme.
A bag hook sits neatly recessed in the comfortable seat. Likewise, another plus is the ease with which you can prop an LX125 onto its mainstand. A voluminous, lockable underseat storage bay is available.
The Indian-built Vespa LX125 comes with a 125cc, carburetted, 3-valve engine. Peak power output is 10.06bhp at 7500rpm. The button-started LX125 engine works flawlessly, with a smooth, refined and built-to-last feel. Checkout more images of the new Vespa LX 125 here
The Indo-Italian LX125 uses a single-sided, hydraulic shock absorber in front and hydraulic monoshock at rear. The riding position is spot on, comfortable and certain to encourage intercity commuting. We were surprised at how good the LX125’s suspension is, pampering its riders with excellent ride quality. Light handling and acceptable cornering manners are also offered. A feeble front brake however proves to be the LX125’s Achilles heel, providing inadequate stopping power and posing a major problem we hope Vespa steps in to quickly address. No such trouble with the rear brake however, as this boasts adequate stopping power.
The Vespa LX125 is priced at a hefty Rs 66,661 (ex-showroom, Pune), and this could prove to be its undoing, posing a massive premium over what several established Indian rivals cost. The iconic, snazzy LX 125 could have pulled off a fair premium over its competition, yes, but Vespa could find the going tough justifying such a wide difference. Indian scooter buyers are sure to question accepting a scooter that commands a much higher price solely to make a bold lifestyle statement, more so because retro scooters like the Bajaj Chetak only just ended their colossal production lifecycles here, though they are still available dime a dozen for a pittance on the used market.
Also see – 2012 Auto Expo – Lohia Auto forays into 3-wheeler segment with Humsafar
