Update on the Scooter
Today was not a good scooter day.
I’m still in Seattle (which is a good thing - with friends, that part is really great). But I went to a scooter shop for a rear tire change and rear brakes. They asked if I wanted an oil change and a few other things. I did for sure.
The total came to $350ish. Is that a lot? Yes it is. But is that normal for a modern Vespa? Yes, it sure is.
During the service, they informed me that the bolt holding the exhaust on was broken off in the case. The mechanic said it was either the last place that worked on it or I hit something. Either could be possible with the roads I’ve been taking. It’s hard to say. I certainly don’t want to accuse Scooter Lounge of anything like that.
Anyway, I have to bring it back in on Friday. They’re going to drill it out and re-tap it. I’m not thrilled that it will cost me $210 (though I’m betting closer to $250). But it needs to be done. If the exhaust comes loose, it won’t fall off, but it will melt my brake line.
The more I think about how all of this could be avoided by riding a vintage Vespa, the more I’m disliking the modern Vespa.
On the vintage, I could change the tire myself (split rims), forgo the oil change (it’s two-stroke), do the gear oil myself, the exhaust attaches in a way that makes some sort of sense and about a billion other things.
Sure, vintage does need a bit more attention, but I can do that myself and it doesn’t cost nearly as much.
Will I end up selling dear Ruby II at the end of my travels? It’s a good possibility. Especially since I’ll be putting a 200cc engine in Whitey. And for around-the-town, I hope to get a small frame Vespa. I’m really excited about both prospects.
3 responses so far
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrgggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!! What a drag to have so many expensive repairs!!!
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Eric!
Where are you? I’m sure I’m not the only reader going through withdrawal!
Hope you’re doing alright… this is the longest your faithful followers have gone with no word…
I’ve been planning a 10,000+ mile motorcycle trip for later in July and August, parts of which will be on 66 and as many 2-lanes as possible (sorry… not on a scooter, but still on 2 wheels!) and until I leave I’ve been living vicariously through you!
If you have the time give us a little update to know you’re OK! I’ve been enjoying following your travels as I’m sure have many others!
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Eric reply on July 5th, 2008 9:09 pm:
Oh there will be an update tomorrow.
I’m mostly just hanging out in Seattle. It’s fun, but not too exciting to update about. Two words can sum it up: Vegan Doughnuts.
My card reader on my computer stopped working, so pictures are a bit tough. I hope to fix that tomorrow.
As for the 10,000 mile trip, are you going to keep a blog about it or just fly free? Either way, very cool. You’ll have a blast!
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