Video shot with first 400+ miles. Now with over 7,350 miles (Updated Nov 11, 2013) and going strong. Runs great and gas mileage is a pretty steady 6365 MPG even though I drive it like I stole it. I did have to replace my rear tire at 5200 miles due to an error on my part. It cost me about $150 for the identical Michelin tire, which included labor. Turns out, I had ridden it pretty hard without checking the pressure (honestly for months) and it was about 24 PSI instead of the required 39 PSI. I am much more cognizant of that now and check it more often. FYI The front tire still looks new.
List on these is just under $7K. With Dealer Prep, shipping and Texas Tax it runs closer to $8K. (I haven't seen any price changes from 2012). I mentioned in the video that I had it up to about 75 MPH. Since then, just for grins I took it out on the highway with calm winds (or maybe a very slight tailwind) and got up to 85 indicated. I say "indicated" because Vespa speedometers are notoriously off. (by about 3 MPH according to my GPS) Still, I'm sure it shocked the highway drivers to see a Vespa passing them in the fast lane doing 80+. :P It was surprisingly stable at that speed but I still wouldn't recommend it for the feint of heart. And I sure wouldn't do it on a gusty day or with 18wheelers blasting around. Don't forget to wear proper motorcycle protection! ;)
The only real differences between the 2012 GTV 300 and the GTS 300 is that the GTV comes standard with the front & rear Luggage Racks, the Headlight on Fender vs. the Handlebar, a short smoked Windscreen, the split Leather Seat (Saddle for driver, more of a rectangle for the passenger) and the fact that the GTV comes in two colors only, that being Portofino Green and Expresso Brown. For 2013 it also comes in beige. The differences in the GTV will set you back about another $1000 over the GTS.
I mentioned some Quick 12v adapter instructions in the video (Note: You can't use an alarm system if you do this unless you buy the Yconnector). Here's what I recommend. Go to ScooterWest.com (Full disclosure I have no relationship with them) and ask for the adapter kit ($50) and also be sure to get the theft alarm adapter cable ($7). 1. When your stuff comes in, replace the cable that came with the kit with the $7 adapter cable. 2. Remove old panel (one "star" screw),. 3. Plug the alarm adapter cable into the matching theft alarm plug. 4. Install the new panel with original screw. You're done! If you are willing to drill a hole in the old panel, you can save $$ by just buying the adapter cable and getting the 12V female plug on your own (Radio Shack). Enjoy your Vespa!
I also recently added the LED lights. Easy Peasy. Got to ScooterWest and you can order a set. Just make sure you get another splitter if you want to also have the lighter adapter. I have a video response for the light installation from Peter below as well.
Enjoy your Vespa but please watch out for all the idiots out there! ;)