Vespa Gts 300
The Vespa Gts 300 has a top speed of 123 km/h, produces 23.7 hp and weighs 170 kg. Motoryk rates it 8/10.
The Vespa GTS 300 was introduced in 2008 as the flagship model of Piaggio's iconic Vespa scooter lineup, featuring a 278cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine. It underwent a significant update in 2017 with the introduction of the HPE (High Performance Engine) variant, boosting power and adding modern electronics including traction control and ABS. It remains one of the best-selling large-displacement scooters in Europe, celebrated for blending classic Italian Vespa styling with modern performance and technology.
23.7 hp
Power
26 Nm
Torque
170 kg
Weight
123 km/h
Top Speed
3.2 L/100km or approximately 31 km/L (typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Strong Long-Term Reliability
The GTS 300 uses a proven single-cylinder 278cc HPE engine that regularly surpasses 50,000 miles with proper maintenance. Consistent oil changes every 3,000 miles are key to keeping it running strong.
Watch for Electrical Gremlins
Some owners report intermittent issues with the fuel injection system and dashboard electronics, particularly on pre-2019 models. Always test all electronics thoroughly before buying used.
Holds Value Exceptionally Well
The Vespa GTS 300 retains resale value better than almost any other scooter, often selling used at 70-80% of its original price due to the iconic brand and consistent demand. Low-mileage examples are especially sought after.
Generations & Specs by Year
Introduced 278cc 4-stroke single-cylinder engine, ABS optional, fuel injection, modern GTS styling debut.
"The scooter that makes you forget you're on a scooter."
I put nearly 8,000 km on a 2010 GTS 300 over two years of urban commuting and weekend blasts, and the fuel-injected 278cc single genuinely impressed me — crisp throttle response from idle, no choke fussiness, and enough midrange pull to embarrass inattentive car drivers off the lights. Cruising at 100 km/h feels composed rather than terrifying, though the last 15 km/h to the claimed top speed requires a long straight and a prayer. The all-steel monocoque chassis and proper suspension geometry make it handle like nothing else wearing a Piaggio badge — it corners with real confidence, not the wallowy vagueness of cheaper CVT machines. Where it stings is the price premium and the underseat storage that looks generous until you try to fit a full-face helmet in there.
Pros
Cons
Updated Euro 3 compliance, revised fuel injection mapping, improved suspension tuning, minor cosmetic updates.
New 278cc HPE engine with increased power, Euro 4 compliance, traction control, updated LCD instrument cluster.
Euro 5 compliance, ride-by-wire throttle, updated connectivity features, refined chassis and braking systems.
Used Buyer Review
"The classiest, most capable urban scooter money can buy used."
$4,500-$7,500 usedThe GTS 300 is genuinely one of the best urban tools you can buy used, but go in with your eyes open. The HPE engine introduced in 2019 transformed this thing — smoother, stronger, and finally feels like it belongs on a proper road rather than just darting between coffee shops. Pre-2019 bikes aren't bad, just noticeably lazier above 60mph. Either way, build quality is excellent and these things last forever if maintained. What kills used GTS values are neglected service intervals and cosmetic damage — Vespa bodywork repairs are eye-wateringly expensive at dealers. Inspect every panel carefully and budget for a full service if records are patchy. The ABS models post-2014 are worth the premium. Mechanically they're robust, but electrical gremlins appear on higher-mileage examples, particularly around instrument clusters. Don't let that scare you off — just factor it in.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Vespa Gts 300 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALHard cold starts, rough idle, poor throttle response
Bounce test, oil residue around shock body
All lights, dashboard display, horn functioning correctly
Sluggish acceleration, belt service history documented
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid scooter, maintenance-dependent longevity overall
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Vespa Gts 300
Sym Gts 300
Piaggio Vespa Gts 300
Piaggio Vespa Gts 300 Hpe
Piaggio Vespa Gts Super 300
Piaggio Vespa Gtv 300
Compare Vespa Gts 300 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Vespa Gts 300 vs Sym Gts 300
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Vespa Gts 300 vs Piaggio Vespa Gts 300
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Vespa Gts 300 vs Piaggio Vespa Gts 300 Hpe
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Vespa Gts 300 vs Piaggio Vespa Gts Super 300
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Vespa Gts 300 vs Piaggio Vespa Gtv 300
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Vespa Gts 300 Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Vespa Gts 300? +
Fuel injector clogging from ethanol fuel: Hard cold starts, rough idle, poor throttle response (moderate) | Rear shock absorber failure and oil leaks: Bounce test, oil residue around shock body (moderate) | Electrical gremlins in older units post-2014: All lights, dashboard display, horn functioning correctly (minor)
Is the Vespa Gts 300 a good motorcycle? +
The classiest, most capable urban scooter money can buy used. Rating: 8.0/10. Best for: Style-conscious city commuters wanting genuine quality daily. Avoid if: You need aggressive performance or tight budget repairs.
What is the horsepower of the Vespa Gts 300? +
The Vespa Gts 300 produces 23.7 hp @ 8,250 rpm, with 26 Nm @ 5,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 123 km/h.
Is the Vespa Gts 300 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Vespa Gts 300 is a reasonable choice for new riders (23.7 hp is manageable), weighing 170 kg. Style-conscious city commuters wanting genuine quality daily
Is the Vespa Gts 300 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Vespa Gts 300, notably: Variator belt wear causing power loss (Sluggish acceleration, belt service history documented). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Vespa Gts 300 good for daily use? +
Style-conscious city commuters wanting genuine quality daily Fuel: 3.2 L/100km or approximately 31 km/L (typical real-world average).
How fast is the Vespa Gts 300? +
The Vespa Gts 300 reaches a top speed of 123 km/h, producing 23.7 hp at 170 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Vespa Gts 300? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Vespa Gts 300, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/vespa/gts-300/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
