The classic design of the standard Vespa Sprint is still preserved, but the recently launched S version in the Vietnamese market has been enhanced with some fresh details, modern technology, and new colors to increase its appeal to consumers. This premium Italian scooter is available for sale in Vietnam at a price of 77.5 million VND.
New features
Compared to the standard version, the Sprint S boasts several notable new features. First and foremost is the revamped lighting system. The scooter now features a two-tier LED headlight set within the familiar rectangular frame. The new lighting system not only has a more aesthetically pleasing design but also offers energy-saving capabilities and improved long-range projection. Additionally, the headlight is positioned in a way that avoids shining directly into the faces of oncoming riders, ensuring a more comfortable experience.
At the rear, the old taillight has been replaced with a new LED configuration. The taillight of the Sprint S sports a beautiful round design, similar to that found on the Notte and Primavera Yacht Club models. The scooter’s front still incorporates LED positioning lights and turn signals. To further enhance the sporty touch, the backlight of the display screen now features an impressive red color with eye-catching patterns. The red S logo can be found below the keyhole, while the ABS logo has been relocated to the opposite side.
Moreover, the S version has been equipped with additional red decorative details to further accentuate its sporty appearance. The red S letter on the scooter’s body, as well as the red and gray paint stripes running along both sides, add a touch of flair. The front air intake slot is now painted red, the S logo on the glossy black rims is red, and even the shock absorber springs are prominently colored in red. The seat is wrapped in premium velvet material with visible stitching, although it should be noted that this material is prone to staining if not regularly cleaned.
Equipped with technology and convenience
As a premium scooter, the Vespa Sprint S naturally comes equipped with a range of modern technologies. Following in the footsteps of the Vespa 946 and Liberty models, the Sprint has also adopted ABS technology. Vespa is at the forefront in Vietnam, making this advanced safety technology widely accessible across many scooter models, thereby enhancing rider protection and minimizing accidents.
When ABS technology is combined with a 200mm front disc brake and a 140mm rear drum brake, the Vespa Sprint ensures optimal safety, particularly in rainy conditions or during emergency braking.
The Vespa Sprint S continues to feature a built-in USB charging port in the front storage compartment. The rear storage compartment can accommodate two half-face helmets, although it may be a challenge to fit a backpack containing a laptop, especially one larger than 13 inches. This limitation stems from the fuel tank located under the seat alongside the storage compartment, consuming part of the available space. Opening the seat can be effortlessly achieved using the button positioned next to the keyhole.
Performance
Despite its compact design, the 2019 Vespa Sprint S boasts a relatively high seat height of 790mm. Surprisingly, this seat height is even 5mm higher than that of the Honda SH, which may give some female customers pause when contemplating a Vespa as their preferred choice. Nevertheless, as compensation, the Vespa Sprint weighs a mere 120kg in dry weight, significantly lighter than the Honda SH, thus ensuring ease of maneuverability, especially for standing riders and women.
Setting aside the dimensions and weight, let’s delve into the scooter’s performance. The S version retains the same Piaggio i-Get Euro 3 engine, featuring a single 125cc cylinder air-cooled engine integrated with an electronic fuel injection system and a 3-valve intake system. This configuration optimizes performance, fuel efficiency, and noise reduction, effectively revolutionizing customer perception of the Vespa brand.
Indeed, since the adoption of the iGet engine, the Vespa models have brought about a multitude of changes in terms of user experience. The unmistakable buzzing sound still persists, but there has been a significant improvement in noise reduction during engine start-up and while riding.
In comparison to Honda scooters, Vespa scooters offer superior acceleration. Even at low speeds, a slight throttle delay is followed by rapid acceleration. Personally, I find riding Vespa scooters, particularly the Sprint S, between speeds of 40 – 80 km/h to be especially enjoyable. The scooter glides smoothly and gracefully with each twist of the throttle.
This is when the sporty and powerful nature of the engine truly shines. The Vespa Sprint S is equipped with an analog speedometer that allows speed observation in both km/h and mph, without the presence of a tachometer typically found on most other scooters. Therefore, specific RPM figures cannot be provided at different speeds.
In terms of fuel consumption, based on more than a week of usage, the scooter averages around 2.5 liters of gasoline per refueling, equating to approximately 80 – 85 km of distance covered. However, it should be noted that this data is accumulated under strictly urban conditions, comprising daily commuting and city tours in Hanoi. Encountering congestion during peak hours is not uncommon. Hence, the Vespa Sprint S provides an acceptable fuel consumption rate.
Conclusion
With significant upgrades such as new paint colors, red decorative stickers, redesigned headlights and taillights, the Vespa Sprint S 125 ABS has significantly enhanced its allure to consumers, particularly young individuals. Retailing at a price of 77.5 million VND in Vietnam, the Vespa Sprint becomes a compelling choice when deciding between it and the Honda SH 125 ABS. However, for those with an unwavering appreciation for timeless beauty, the Vespa Sprint S will undoubtedly be an irresistible option.