Though it seems like a gentle engine, it’s incredibly lively at high speeds! The GTS Super Sport 300 is the top model in the Vespa GTS series, equipped with the latest technology.

Easy-to-see and timeless styling

Vespa has built its own unique system with a steel monocoque body and single-arm link arm front suspension, but the fact that it has inherited the classic styling design of scooters shows the pride of a long-established manufacturer. However, it is not exactly the same style as the old models. It is characterized by a retro-modern styling that incorporates modern design into a contemporary style.

In Japan, this model is classified as a small motorcycle, but considering its class, it can be said that it has a compact body. In addition, the modern design that retains a classical atmosphere is appealing in that it asserts individuality while also having a universal appeal that is not influenced by trends.

Although the car is tall, the overall compact body makes it easy to handle.

Although it's a small two-wheeled scooter, the body is compact and not at all intimidating. The step-through floor makes it easy to get on and off, which is a nice touch. Sitting down on the large seat, the cushion is relatively hard, but it's stable and comfortable. The seat height is 790mm, but I found it harder to place my feet on it than I'd imagined from the numbers. I think this is because the body touches my inner thighs, causing my legs to tend to spread apart. However, with the vehicle weight kept to 163kg, there's no need to worry. Incidentally, this weight is about 20kg lighter than a 250cc Japanese-made scooter. The handlebars have a wide turning angle, so I thought it was easy to handle.

Foot reach check (rider height 179cm)

The body is relatively compact and not intimidating. The step-through floor also makes it easy to get on and off. The seat height is kept low at 790mm, but the seat is wide, so your inner thighs hit the side of the body, which results in your legs being spread apart, so it’s not particularly easy to reach the ground. However, the vehicle weight is light for a scooter in this class at 163kg, so there’s little to worry about. The foot space on the floor isn’t very large, but it’s well-suited to an upright upper body, making for a comfortable ride.

The engine’s excellent mid-to-high RPM range delivers sporty driving performance in urban areas.

I started off and tried riding it at low speeds. The performance of the 278cc HPE four-stroke, water-cooled, single-cylinder engine is slightly higher than that of a Japanese-made 250cc scooter. Therefore, I expected the engine's torquey characteristics to provide powerful acceleration. However, in reality, I didn't feel any strong torque at extremely low speeds. The engine's revs increased gradually, and I felt that the engine's characteristics emphasized smoothness. However, as the revs increased, the power increased, and the engine's true performance came into focus. It responded linearly to the accelerator and accelerated exactly as desired, making it easy to handle and speedy. While I didn't ride on the highway this time, I think cruising at 100 km/h was easily possible. Since the engine generates maximum torque at 5,250 rpm, I would have preferred a more torquey ride even at extremely low speeds, but overall, I felt the engine delivered reliable performance for city driving.

At extremely low speeds, the torque line felt a little thin, but at mid- to high-speeds, it developed well and the power increased dramatically.

At its heart is Vespa’s most powerful 278cc HPE water-cooled, four-stroke, SOHC, four-valve, single-cylinder engine. Not only does it deliver a high output of 17.5 kW (23.8 HP) at 8,250 rpm, but it also delivers powerful acceleration with a low-to-mid-range torque characteristic of 26 Nm at 5,250 rpm.

The stable driving feel even at low speeds makes it easy to ride.

Scooters with small-diameter tires can sometimes leave you feeling unsure about their stability. However, this model in the compact two-wheel class offers excellent straight-line stability without wobbling at low speeds. U-turns and other slow-speed direction changes are effortless, and once you gain speed, handling becomes even more responsive and neutral. While the suspension stroke isn't particularly long, it absorbs even small bumps well, providing a stable ride.
For example, if you try to ride more aggressively on winding roads, the suspension's absorption capacity may not be enough, and you may not be able to maintain the intended cornering line. The GTS is a scooter that delivers high performance as a commuter and also promises comfortable touring. If you want to indulge in sporty riding, choose a motorcycle or scooter that suits your needs. The smooth, safe ride and gentle handling of the retro-modern Vespa GTS Super Sport 300 felt perfectly suited to the bike.

While its traditional style exudes Vespa style, its modern sensibilities are also enhanced by the incorporation of the latest technology. The smart key system is one example, and the optional Vespa MIA app connects your smartphone to the GTS via Bluetooth. This allows you to access riding data while touring, and allows you to make and receive calls, receive messages, and manage your playlist without taking your hands off the handlebars. Utilizing these cutting-edge technologies further enhances convenience.
While the small size of the motorcycle can be a hassle, requiring vehicle inspections, the flip side is that proper maintenance during inspections means you can continue riding with peace of mind. It might be a good idea to aim to become a sophisticated rider who can confidently ride a premium model from the world-famous Vespa brand.