Pay MSRP at end of year?

crunkmonkey · Post by **crunkmonkey** » Fri Nov 23, 2007 11:22 pm

Hi everyone.

I've been lurking for long enough and am about to finally buy.

I was wondering what you guys did think about a couple of issues.

First, do you recommend the Buddy for a first time user? would the 50cc be good enough or should I go for the 125 cc? What about the Vespa LX 150? I did read the monocoque may be a problem and not to mention the higher price. I just like the way the Vespas look more than the Genuine.

Second, do you think I could get less than the MSRP now that it's end of year. If I can, how much? I have read some divisiveness about getting the best price and supporting your local dealer. Personally, I'd like to pay the best price up front. I don't have a lot of money to shell out at first but I will support the dealer with service and riding gear in the future.

Thanks so much for the info I've already received and thanks for any new answers you guys can provide.

gt1000 · Post by **gt1000** » Sat Nov 24, 2007 12:22 am

You could save everyone some time if we knew your location.

Both the LX and Buddy are fine first scooters. It's probably safe to say that most folks prefer the look of the Vespa over the Buddy but that's a personal taste thing. The Buddy will be quicker than the Vespa and much cheaper to fix should you drop it. I think the Vespa has a better suspension than the Buddy. Handling is similar but the Vespa has a nicer ride over rough surfaces. As far as 50 vs. 125/150 a search should unearth a number of threads covering that subject. My personal feeling is that the 125 or 150 is much more flexible and infinitely safer than a 50. Depends on how you ride and where you ride too.

The price you negotiate depends on a lot. Your location, your dealer's inventory, etc. If you live in a cold weather area you might luck out if your dealer has units on hand. Margins are small though so you probably won't get a huge discount. You might also try to negotiate a reduction on accessories, gear, etc.

If you live near Denver, Erico has greatly reduced their prices on most in-stock units because they're moving one of their stores. Sportique apparently will match Erico's prices on their in stock Vespas as well. If I was in the market for a scooter today, these prices probably would've convinced me to buy an LX-150, GT or GTS.

Dibber · Post by **Dibber** » Sat Nov 24, 2007 12:46 am

I think gt1000 pretty much gave you all the recommendations and answers to your question. I just want to re-emphaize that a 125/150 would be your best choice. I used the extra horse power more than once this summer to avoid an accident and the weight difference between the Buddy 50 to a 125 is small enough to not make much of a handling difference and you can alway drive the 125 slowly if you feel the power is to much for you, but I will bet it won't be long and you will love the quickness and speed of a little 125. It is awsome.

crunkmonkey · Post by **crunkmonkey** » Sat Nov 24, 2007 2:41 am

Thanks, gt1000 and Dibber, for the info.

So it sounds like the 125cc would be the way to go, that's what I thought, I just wanted to make sure.

I guess the Vespa is the one that is in the American consciousness so it's looks just grab us. I asked and they thought they might let the Vespas go a a couple of hundred less next month but that's still $4000 on a LX 150 and that's just too much right now.

I am purposely obtuse about my location because if I do negotiate with my dealer, I didn't want to tip them on who I am and where I go my info from (I've see my dealer is active here)

. So, if anyone else has any information it would be greatly appreciated. Has anyone bought recently? Any deals going on that anyone knows about? Are dealers usually willing to go for a little less at this time of year? If so, by how much?

Thanks for any info.