PIAGGIO VESPA LX50 (2005 - on) Review

At a glance
Power: | 3 bhp |
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Seat height: | Low (30.5 in / 775 mm) |
Weight: | Low (212 lbs / 96 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesThe easiest way in to Vespa ownership is a slow-going affair, but it looks great and is a reasonably practical machine.
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineThe Vespa LX50 deals with bumps better than most small scooters – the design is chunkier and more cosseting. It’s still manoeuvrable at low speed, and large bumps or holes will still upset the small wheels though.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityThe entry-level Vespa is powered by a 50cc two-stroke twist-and-go engine that isn’t exciting or very fast – it has the virtue of being learner friendly and that’s it. It should sip petrol though.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueThe painted enclosed body is nicely finished and the chrome looks OK, but underneath the metal parts suffer at the hands of road much, water and salt. The iconic body shape is vulnerable in a crash- even dropping will damage everything on one side.
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentAs a purely practical purchase, there are cheaper scooters doing the same job. But the Vespa is about image – it’s not silly money, and there’s fewer more chic 50cc scoots out there. Find a Vespa LX50 for sale.
Equipment
Decent underseat storage, a cubby hole in the leg shield, a pull-out bag hook and a fuel gauge make the LX50 practical for the fashionista about town. The seat is comfy and there’s plenty of room for all sizes of rider. Compare and buy parts for the Vespa LX50 in the MCN Shop.
Specs |
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Engine size | 49cc |
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Engine type | Two-stroke, air-cooled single, CVT transmission |
Frame type | Tubular steel |
Fuel capacity | 8.5 litres |
Seat height | 775mm |
Bike weight | 96kg |
Front suspension | none |
Rear suspension | none |
Front brake | 200mm disc |
Rear brake | Drum |
Front tyre size | 110/70-11 |
Rear tyre size | 120/70-10 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
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Average fuel consumption | 58 mpg |
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Annual road tax | £25 |
Annual service cost | - |
New price | £1,958 |
Used price | £1,300 |
Insurance group |
2 of 17 How much to insure? |
Warranty term | Two year unlimited mileage |
Top speed & performance |
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Max power | 3 bhp |
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Max torque | 2.4 ft-lb |
Top speed | 30 mph |
1/4 mile acceleration | - |
Tank range | 128 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
launched 2005.
Other versions
LX4 50 – The same proposition, but with an even slower four-stroke engine. Buy the two-stroke, it’s safer.
Other Piaggio Vespa reviews on MCN
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