Peetur

http://www.nsp.sg/speech_transcript.php?more=19&PHPSESSID=c81851e8951d6bf68ab177f9119a21e2

I don't disagree with you, I wouldn't lie awake about the invasion of privacy thing either. But I googled this and some MP gave that as his reply (in 2004 already, if I remember correctly). Still, with today's wireless technology, there's no need to have that chunky ugly wart on the front of your motorcycle. I'm sure the LTA is looking at this, my guess is the only things holding them back are (1) the switching cost and (2) apathy.

Apparently they looked at that (monthly GIRO payment) when they introduced the IU, but the feedback was very negative. Big brother thing, invasion of privacy if the government keeps a record of where you've been in the last statement period. What I'd like more is an IU that can be mounted inside a top-box or a glove compartment (scooter). That way we no longer have to deface our beautiful machines. Worse than being a hassle, these IUs are ****ing ugly!

Thanks. I already took it on a test ride and thought it's zippy enough while riding, but at the time didn't pay much attention to off-the-line acceleration. It's just kind of scary if (hypothetically) you squeeze to the front of the line and then cars overtake you at the traffic lights (I don't like anything that comes from behind because you can't see it ) Moreover, you always get the odd driver that's pissed off that you squeezed to the front -- better to get away Other than that, the safety aspect of this bike is very appealing. Most of the time two wheels are enough, but in a near-accident situation, 3 can make the difference. Came across this very interesting blog on motorcycle safety by the way (off topic but hey, aren't we here because we have too much time? ): http://www.msgroup.org/DISCUSS.asp According to this, most accidents involve poor cornering technique (under or over-leaning, with attendant consequences) or skidding / losing control of the bike during an emergency brake -- both problems that the MP3 should greatly reduce.

How's the off-the-line performance? Is it fast enough to out-accelerate cars at traffic lights? (and can you clarify whether you have a 125 or 250cc?) That to me is more important than top speed and as we all know, this bike is seriously heavy.

http://www.modernvespa.com/forum/topic7574.html

I was told the same thing 2 weeks ago at PSC. That said, personally I think 250cc is just fine unless you want to do a lot of long-distance riding.

I took the 250 for a test ride and it has plenty enough pep for me. My only concern with getting that (over the 400) would be resale value down the road as I'm an expat and uncertain how long I'll be here. My guess is that if I wanted to sell it in 2-3 years, I'd take a huge hit in depreciation, one, because the 400 will be out by then and most people will prefer that, two, because other brands may have 3-wheel scooters (Gilera, maybe the Japanese...) Moreover, this concept of 2 front wheels is new, so the overall price level may drop after a while, so that what costs 12000 today might be 10000 in three years. But purely for myself, 400 cc would mean worse fuel economy, slightly more weight, perhaps smaller underseat storage space... Since i don't do much highway riding, everything more than 250 is overkill. Even on highways, I'm not sure if more than 250 is of any use either.

around 12800 OTR including comprehensive insurance for the 250cc

So what's the news? Anyone here bought one yet?

If you like the looks, good for you. It's a cool technology, and the added stability, taking corners at high speed, better braking, etc. are all a big boon. Nevertheless, I've decided to wait for the Vespa GTV 250. Should be available next summer. http://www.scootersales.com.au/Gallery-82-mediarelease.aspx

and let me clarify: based on the pictures, I thought it looked kinda cool. I was very interested in getting one, but when I saw it in the showroom, I really couldn't make myself like it, even though I wanted to. There's something fuddy-duddy about the two front wheels ("handicapped transport" or "senior citizen" were my spontaneous thoughts).

oh well, attention of pretty girls,... I don't mind it. But my point was that it seems I'm not the only one who isn't impressed by the looks of the MP3. Google MP3 and ugly and you get tons of hits. The looks definitely divide opinions.

First I was very interested, but after seeing it, I thought it was kinda ugly. Handicapped transport... Not that it matters, but the Straits Times review also remarked that one area where this bike fails is in getting the attention of pretty girls. Cool technology but looks dorky.

I bought an Arai RX-7 with PSB sticker last week for 780 dollars. Shop on Serangoon Road close to Lavender Street. That said, it's a ridiculous rule. There's such nice helmets out there, and because of totally useless bureaucracy you can't buy them.