Pale green is definitely Vespa. Primavera 150 test ride report

Vespa Primavera 150: ¥544,500 (including 10% consumption tax)

Color variations

Primavera 150

Primavera S 150: ¥566,500 (including 10% consumption tax)

Primavera Color Vibe 150… ¥605,000 (including 10% consumption tax)

Vespa is an Italian brand so famous it’s synonymous with scooters. Its roots date back to the V98, which debuted in 1946. The Primavera name was first used with the 125, released in 1968. It debuted as the successor to the 125 Nuova. Its

larger body size and a lockable storage compartment on the left rear panel were distinctive features. The latest version, the Primavera, which was unveiled at EICMA in 2023, continues this tradition. While

the company’s larger-sized GTS is known as a serious scooter, the Primavera is a more approachable addition to the small-size category. While the EV model has yet to be introduced to the Japanese market, there are nine different models available, including different colors and the 125.

As a symbol of the company’s brand, the bike features a steel monocoque frame and suspension with single-sided support for both front and rear wheels. A monocoque frame is a structure that provides rigidity to the outer body itself, eliminating the need for a commonly used steel tube frame such as an underbone. It is known as a rational design method.

And, as can be seen from the photo, the body design is based on a straight line that rises from the footrest to the hips, and is accented with graceful curves.

Chrome-plated moldings adorn the details, and the Green Amabile color of the test vehicle is impressive, with a tasteful finish that conveys a subtle brightness and high-quality feel.

The engine is a forced-air-cooled SOHC single-cylinder called an i-get. It is equipped with a three-valve type, similar to that used in the Vespa 946 Snake and Sprint. Naturally, there are two intake valves and one exhaust valve.

The bore and stroke are close to square, measuring 58 x 58.6 mm, making it a slightly long-stroke 155cc. The compression ratio is 10.5:1. The bike features an electronically controlled fuel injection system, delivering a maximum power output of 12.3 HP at 7,250 rpm and a maximum torque of 12.7 Nm at 5,750 rpm. Both

front and rear wheels are fitted with Vietnam-made 12-inch MAXXIS tubeless tires. The front has a single-side suspension with a link arm and hydraulic shock absorber.

The rear has a single-side suspension with a unit swing-type monoshock with four-stage spring adjustment. The front brakes

are a hydraulic single disc with ABS, while the rear has a mechanical drum type. The seat, which opens with a hinge at the front, has a helmet compartment, but its capacity is small, limiting the type of helmet it can fit. For everyday use

, the optional top box is essential. While fuel economy data is not available on the official Japanese website, the Italian model reported a fuel economy of 37 km/L. This figure is provided for reference purposes only.

As an aside, there is currently a campaign offering a free genuine helmet to new Vespa buyers. The deadline is Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

The ride is very comfortable.

I touched various parts of the test vehicle and looked at it from the sidelines for a while. While the finish was orthodox, based on the standard shape of a scooter, it had an air of casual formal attire, giving it a charming, endearing feel.

Moreover, the refreshing coloring exuded a bright, stylish aura that was distinct from the typical Japanese aesthetic. The size of the vehicle is standard for a scooter, with 12-inch wheels front and rear. It’s slightly larger than the Honda Lead 125 and Suzuki Avenis 125, which have 10-inch rear wheels, but it’s clearly more compact than the Honda PCX and Yamaha NMAX, which have larger wheels front and rear.

However, straddling the seat, the vehicle doesn’t feel too small. In fact, it felt just right for me. The overall volume of the vehicle is not too large, giving it a sleek look. I was impressed by its easy handling, including its weight when maneuvering it around a garage or parking lot.

The seat height is 785mm, higher than any of the four domestic models listed above. However, as shown in the photo in the next section, there is no problem with foot reach, and both feet can be firmly planted on the ground all the way up to the heels.

However, it goes without saying that there is a big difference in foot reach when sitting with your hips dropped back (slightly sloppy) compared to when you sit upright, so be careful. Of course, sitting on the wider part of the seat will make it even worse, so be careful.

Because the body is also fairly wide, your feet will land a little further to the side of the body. Leaving your weight on the seat tends to lighten the load on your feet, so make a conscious effort to plant your feet firmly to increase grip at the landing point. This means that even on flat ground, you need to be especially careful when handling loose sand or other situations where your feet are easily lost.

The reason I mention such an obvious point is that the rider’s mindset is subtly different between a motorcycle and a scooter, and when you experience the comfortable ride of a scooter, it’s easy to become complacent, so I felt it was important to keep my composure as needed so as not to miss any important points.

When I started the engine, the overall atmosphere was gentle, including the richness of the exhaust note. It felt docile, but by no means weak. In fact, when I twisted the throttle with my right hand, the torque felt strong enough to launch, giving off a sense of moderate strength.

The vehicle weighs 132 kg. It’s not particularly light, but it’s not lacking in performance. Moreover, the easy acceleration is “gentle,” matching the initial impression I got from the exterior, creating an exquisite sense of comfort.

Not only is the throttle response good in urban areas, but even on the highway, I was never dissatisfied with the instantaneous force required when merging onto the main lane. While I wasn’t expecting a sporty high potential, there’s no doubt that the lively driving performance is at a satisfying level. The

continuously variable automatic transmission control is natural and smooth. It’s easy to handle and comfortable, from congested roads to high-speed cruising. On roads with a 100km/h speed limit, the bike feels effortless even when just going with the flow. Even in those situations, the engine’s excellent output characteristics give it a sense of ease.

While I wouldn’t necessarily want to ride a scooter of this displacement on the highway, it’s nice to know that when I do, I can enjoy comfortable performance without complaint.

The comfort isn’t limited to the engine’s characteristics; the excellent straight-line stability and smooth ride are also a highlight. The front and rear wheels are 12 inches, but the long 1340mm wheelbase contributes to a sense of security.

The seat is also very comfortable. Unlike a motorcycle, a scooter requires you to sit low on the seat with your feet together, but the clever seat design makes it comfortable. The thick cushion is heavily chamfered at both front shoulder areas, providing excellent support (close contact) between the buttocks, crotch, and inner thighs

, creating a sense of security. The seat provides a wide surface area for support, resulting in a comfortable, stable ride. Furthermore, the clever distribution of weight on the seat prevents soreness in the buttocks, greatly contributing to a comfortable ride.

Incidentally, the step floor is equipped with three-line rubber moldings on both sides, making it easy to secure a firm grip underfoot. Bracing yourself firmly on the slope in front of the step makes it easier to withstand deceleration G-forces during sudden braking, and the overall maneuverability is excellent.

The single-arm front and rear suspension also demonstrate gentle footwork. The front suspension in particular operates with exquisite ease. For example, when slowly climbing over sidewalk steps, such as when entering a convenience store or gas station, the soft shock absorption was very comfortable. The

generally straightforward and easy-to-handle maneuverability is also a positive feeling, even when cornering in narrow city streets or on mountain passes. Trying to handle the vehicle more forcefully with rough steering results in quicker turns, but there is a slight sense of movement back from the vehicle. However, if you relax and handle it naturally, you’ll find a gentle ride that allows you to easily drive at a relaxed and light pace. The overall feeling is harmonious and calm.

I felt that such comfort had a valuable appeal.

Furthermore, as an owner, I’m sure you’ll enjoy going out in high spirits. It might even make you want to dress up. I was impressed by how easy it is to drive and how exciting it always feels.

Foot reach check (rider height 168cm/weight 52kg)