Riva125--isn't there anything else?

[moreau]

Now that I am ready to actually buy, I have found the selection of scooters
to be very frustrating. I'm 29, living in CA, and really need something to
get me up the hills of San Francisco. I don't want to just barely make it
or overload the engine every time. Riding would be to work, classes, and
just touring around the city. I think a 125cc or greater scooter would be
perfect--but the choice(who are we kidding here) is limited. Does anyone
have experience with scooters on steep inclines in urban traffic? And what
would you suggest? What is the time frame of Aprila/Vespa 125cc imports,
1mo. - 100yrs.?

Thanks,
moreau

[Jeff Saunders]

What's your budget? There are loads of used bikes around,
which are your low cost option. Look for an Elite 150 or a Riva 180.
Also Elite 250's and Riva 200's for a bit more scratch, or a used
Helix. There were 2 Riva 180's in Los Gatos for under $1000
a month or 2 back, so check Classifieds 2000 and Cycle Trader.

If you're not in a desperate rush and have loads of money, check out
the Honda Reflex, and put a deposit on one quickly. There will only
be 2,500 sold in the U.S. next year. If the arrive in Feb. as scheduled,
I expect they'll be gone by April.

No clue from Vespa as to when they'll actually start selling
scooters instead of watches. They keep eeking their schedule
to the right, rather than trying to set a realistic date.

- Jeff Saunders

[Jack Stanley]

IMHO, the scoots listed below will more than meet your needs. You really
need a 150cc or larger scooter - the 125's are just not very adequate. I
had the Riva 180's for sale in Los Gatos. I currently have another Riva 180
and two Elite 150's that will probably be for sale soon. Watch CL2K...

Jack