The Vespa GTV was born in 2006 to recover a more classic design and establish itself as the purest of Vespas, with the low headlight positioned on the front fender. In 2023, the classic meets the modern, with the completely remodeled Vespa GTV presenting technological arguments and a sporty touch.
Starting with the engine, this GTV is equipped with a 300 cc single-cylinder HPE engine, with 23.8 hp, which means that this is the most powerful engine ever placed in a Vespa. We also have 26 Nm of maximum torque at 5,250 rpm, but the GTV shines from the start, with a good response when starting and we know that this is one of the characteristics of Italian motorcycles and their engines.
Top speed is not the strong point of this Vespa, and the lack of aerodynamic protection can be a plus for this characteristic. Still, even at speeds close to 110 km/h, the response is always prompt and adequate for the almost 24 hp found in the GTV. But being a Vespa, its purpose is probably for city commuting, and in that aspect, this single-cylinder engine does not disappoint and performs very well. However, if we want to ride on the highway, it does not refuse and will not let you down if you do not intend to exceed the speed limits – which you should not do.
COMPACT AND AGILE
When we look at the 12” wheels of the GTV, we don’t imagine it will be very comfortable, but it reminds us of Messi. And fans of the Argentine star have already understood what I meant, but I’ll explain. Low, with a center of gravity close to the ground, small wheels, which will result in greater agility. All of this in theory, of course. Naturally, care must be taken with some potholes, but still the 12” rims together with a good single-arm front suspension and a double rear shock absorber make the GTV quite effective at absorbing road irregularities, even with smaller wheels and a short travel. However, not everything is positive in terms of handling, as the brakes were found to be a bit below expectations, especially the front one which only comes into action after a long pull of the front lever.
It is true that by activating both brakes, front and rear, this small detail on the front lever is less noticeable, but if we only use the front disc, we will feel that too much force and distance is needed on the lever for the GTV to stop the way we want, and even then, the bite of the disc does not seem to be the most effective. The seat also proved to be somewhat hard for slightly longer rides, but totally suitable for our city trips, as well as the riding position, quite spacious and with the legs in a comfortable position. The handlebar has the necessary width to leave us comfortable, allowing us to move the GTV from side to side effortlessly. We also have a huge braking power that allows us to maneuver this Vespa anywhere, no matter how tight it is.
THE BEST Low-speed torque, agility, design TO IMPROVE Braking, seat comfort
CLASSIC DESIGN, MODERN TECHNOLOGY
In the technological department, this Vespa mounts a full LED lighting system and a round LCD instrumentation. It is not the panel with the most information we find on the market, but it presents the essentials with excellent visibility. It is also possible to connect the mobile phone with the Vespa MIA, which is optional equipment for this motorcycle, something that will allow you to see notifications related to calls, messages, and music. Still in technology, this GTV comes equipped with ABS and traction control, which has proven to be quite intrusive, sometimes even excessively, preventing the progression of gear and remaining active for a few seconds, even when the lack of traction situation had already been overcome. This GTV also features the keyless system that allows ignition activation without the need for the traditional key, complementing the technological advancement that Piaggio has imposed on this model. The new Vespa GTV combines classic style with modern technology almost perfectly. With a very characteristic look, accompanied by a good set of engine and chassis, this scooter is available starting at €7,799 and will certainly attract the biggest and most true fans of the Italian brand. If you are looking for a more discreet color, you can always opt for black, but you will never get rid of the orange accents. VESPA GTV SINGLE-CYLINDER engine, 4-stroke, 4 valves, liquid cooling.ENGINE DISPLACEMENT 278 cc
POWER 17.5 kW (24.8 hp) @8,250 rpm
TORQUE 26 Nm @ 5,250 rpm
CVT GEARBOX with torque converter
CHASSIS tubular steel trellis
FUEL TANK 8.5 liters
FRONT SUSPENSION single-arm with coil spring and hydraulic monoshock
REAR SUSPENSION dual hydraulic shock absorbers with 4-position preload adjustment
FRONT BRAKE stainless steel disc, Ø 220 mm with hydraulic control – ABS/ASR
REAR BRAKE stainless steel disc, Ø 220 mm with hydraulic control – ABS/ASR
FRONT TIRE 120/70 – 12”
REAR TIRE 130/70 – 12”
WHEELBASE 1,375 mm
SEAT HEIGHT 790 mm
WEIGHT 157 kg
MSRP (from): €7,799