The best retro scooters on the market right now
When it comes to retro scooters, to the purists, nothing will ever topple the mighty Vespa and Lambretta – the original and enduring scooters of choice for style-conscious mods. While that’s unlikely to change any time soon, there are a plethora of options out there to enjoy.
From more traditional scooters and Vespa lookalikes to Chinese imports, we’ve put together a list of the best retro scooters that will add style and technical sophistication to your next ride.
Vespa GTS 300
Price PointBetween £5,450 and £6,200Weight155kgEngine Size278ccMax Torque26.0Nm/5250rpmMax Power17.5kW
We couldn’t have a retro scooter list without mentioning a Vespa, and the glossy GTS 300 is definitely one to behold.
The kind of aesthetically pleasing scooter you can’t stop taking pictures of, the GTS 300 has elegant chrome details and a powerful motor. It is designed to be an easy yet comfortable ride, plus, the keyless ignition, Bike Finder feature and USB port make it a modern choice for retro lovers.
Scomadi TL125
Price PointBetween £1,995 and £2,395Weight125kgEngine Size124.6ccMax Torque9.67Nm/7200rpmMax Power7.0kW
What’s special about the Scomadi is that you’d have to look closely to tell it apart from other classics like the Bertone-designed Lambretta GP.
The TT125 boasts a modern, four-stroke automatic engine beneath that familiar body – which rides a little higher than the original GP – while modern touches like disc brakes, LED indicators, electric start and digital speedo are what you’d expect on any newer bike.
Royal Alloy TG300
Price PointBetween £4899 and £5, 399Weight143kgEngine Size278ccMax Torque23.0Nm/5000rpmMax Power16kW
What immediately stands out about the Royal Alloy TG300 is the unique but fashionable colour choices but, don’t be fooled, this scooter isn’t style over substance.
It’s thoughtfully designed with features like a lockable front glove box, useful LED lighting and twin adjustable rear shocks, plus, it has anti-dive front suspension for safety. It has been described as a ‘real classic in the making’ and we can see why.
Honda Super Cub C125
Price Point£3,749 (starting)Weight110kgEngine Size124ccMax Torque10.4Nm/6250rpmMax Power7.2kW
Honda’s Super Cub scooters have been around for over 60 years, with this later instalment providing the same style and strength that fans have come to expect.
The Super Cub C125 boasts a powerful air-cooled engine and smoother riding suspension compared to its predecessors. The straight-backed design offers great visibility while riding and several other features are in place to enhance rider comfort without sacrificing the look.
AJS Modena 125
Price Point£2,999Weight269kgEngine Size125ccMax Torque7.5Nm/6500rpmMax Power5.3kW
With a funky, retro design, the AJS Modena is Chinese-made and backed by a full UK dealer network.
Lightweight and with a low seat height, the Modena boasts a four-stroke automatic engine and its low price makes it an attractive entry point for younger riders looking for style with ease of riding and maintenance.
Lambretta X300
Price Point£4,500Weight160–165kgEngine Size275ccMax Torque24.5Nm/6250rpmMax Power18.5kW
Another modern classic we couldn’t pass up including in this list, the Lambretta X300 is sleek and chic while being an absolute pleasure to ride.
The bike comes with signature Lambretta design details that we all know and love, like the intelligent ABS Braking System and the Italian-style tail light, plus an overall compact design. Despite the smaller engine, it also makes a 25bhp and 24.5Nm of peak torque.
Lexmoto LX06
Price PointBetween £2,609.99 and £3,199.99Weight90kgEngine Size125ccMax Torque48.5Nm/800rpmMax Power4.0kW
Lexmoto is a big name in Chinese imports, and the Lexmoto LX06 has put the name back on the map.
Coming in two striking colours, this is another fashionable pick, inspired by classic architecture. With removable batteries, a large LCD display, and stylish white-walled tyres, we can see this becoming popular amongst first-time riders.
MGB Trieste 125
Price PointBetween £1,899 and £2,149Weight109kgEngine Size125ccMax Torque2.8Nm/6500rpmMax Power6.5kW
MGB is one of many British brands that repurpose and develop Chinese scooters, with the Trieste 125 being one the best, embracing Italian design elements and many practical features.
The frame is compact and lightweight for easy manoeuvrability and the handle design supports this simplicity. The 125cc single-cylinder engine and LED lights will help ensure that you’re seen by the traffic around you while keeping up as you ride.
What should you look for when buying a retro scooter?
For most of us, a scooter is a large purchase that needs a lot of thought, but the process should still be fun – you’re finding your dream ride after all!
Here are a couple of things to consider when you’re on the hunt:
The price – An obvious one, but setting a budget and sticking to it can help you in the long run.
The performance – Speed, engine power, and ease of use are all things to keep in mind.
The brand – For many, a brand can indicate reliability and quality, so do your research beforehand.
The class – This needs to be considered in relation to what you need your scooter for and how you plan on riding it.
The type – Do you want an electric scooter? Are you comparing scooters against mopeds? Again, take the chance to do some research.
The colour – This is mostly superficial, but the right colour (plus other style elements) is key to whether you just like or truly love your purchase.
Get bike insurance for your retro scooter
Before you enjoy your new retro ride on the road, you’ll need the correct insurance. At Bikesure, we understand how important your scooter is to you, so we can help you find the right scooter or moped insurance without all of the fuss of searching for yourself.
Prefer an imported pick? We can also help you find the appropriate Chinese scooter insurance,
Call us at 0800 369 8580 for a quick and easy quote or book a callback at a time that suits you.
