Anyone who claims that Vespas should not be ridden in winter because it is too dangerous is often wrong with this blanket statement. Taken out of context, it is not justifiable. Dangerous yes, but less dangerous when certain circumstances are taken into account.
Of course, scooters can be ridden if certain rules are observed. If, and only if, safety is the top priority.
For scooter riders, the colloquial German term “Sauwetter” is a lousy winter weather situation. It means wet conditions, rain/sleet, strong winds and freezing cold. The roads can be a slippery mess. Poor visibility can round off the uncomfortable winter weather.
Riding a Vespa in cold and wet winter weather
A completely different scenario shows winter at its best. The sun shines from a steel-blue sky, the snow glistens and sparkles. It may be cold, but it’s dry and windless.
This is the ideal Vespa weather in winter
Now just the right clothing to keep the cold away from your body. Every Vespisti knows that the hands are particularly susceptible to the cold. Once they are half frozen, the rest of the body is also affected. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to prevent this.
All prices listed below include VAT, plus shipping costs.
Here is a representative selection and recommendations:
SIP Destination Gloves
49 € – all sizes XS to XXXL
This glove is lightweight and inspired by classic work gloves. It is therefore baptized as vintage.
- high wearing comfort
- robust yet supple cowhide leather
- wears like a second skin
- can be used as an under-glove for grip and handlebar cuffs
- perfect for rides in milder temperatures without handlebar cuffs
- Touchscreen-compatible index finger
- Function and style – cleverly combined
FUEL Rodeo gloves
99 € – all sizes S to XXL
The most important details:
- Unisex
- 100% cowhide leather
- casual, unusual look thanks to reinforcements on the inside and outside
- integrated PVC knuckle protection
- perfect fit thanks to adjustable Velcro fastener on the knuckle
- ideal for all seasons thanks to light lining
- extra abrasion protection, based on anatomically shaped suede attachments on the palms
KOSO HG 13 heated grip set
95 € – L 120 mm
Allseasons riders will never want to be without this gimmick again: Heated grips! Pre-assembled plugs and cable lugs make installation very easy. The grips are designed for 22/25 mm handlebars and are therefore suitable for all scooter models. The heating switch can be attached either to the handlebars or to the cockpit using adhesive tape. Anyone who has to ride in the cold should not do without this luxury!
- 120 mm length
- Material: rubber
- 5-stage regulator, 12 V
- Pre-assembled plugs and cable lugs
- Easy to fit even for non-professionals
- With operating instructions and all necessary assembly materials
- Grip cuffs to protect the surfaces of the hands
A must-have for all Vespisti who (have to) ride their Vespa in adverse weather conditions!
Grip and handlebar covers TUCANO URBANO SX
59,90 €
Handlebar cuffs are ideal protection against the cold, wind and winter weather. They keep your previously warmed hands nice and warm. The Vespa’s controls are easy to reach and operate.
- ergonomic design
- waterproof
- warm synthetic fur lining
- quick and easy to fit
- safety: reflective details for the safety of pilots
- for models with handlebar end weights
- Outer material: 5 mm neoprene
Hand Grip Covers TUCANO URBANO
75 €
These grip and handlebar covers are suitable for Vespa models with mirrors.
- quick and easy installation
- ergonomic design
- waterproof
- very warm synthetic fur lining
- transparent window for visibility of speedometer displays
- safety screw cap
- outer material: nylon
General tips for riding a Vespa in the snow and cold
Details:
- Safety first: Gloves must have good grip; freedom of movement should be given
- Wear under-gloves, alternatively: heating pad in the glove
- Insulate according to the onion principle (several layers)
- Plan regular warm-up breaks
- Do not ride too long distances
- Retrofit heated grips
- Warm your hands before you start riding, warm them up in between by rubbing them together
- Protect your hands from cold wind
Survive the winter well
Despite all precautions, there is still a risk:
Road salt on the roads can easily be thrown at the rubber and metal parts of the scooter.
Once there, it can stick and cause major damage. We should therefore give our Vespa a thorough clean after every ride in windy and cold, wet weather.
Extra tip
Gloves should fit perfectly, which means we should ideally try them on and test them in practice before buying them. Why not combine the useful with the pleasant and pay a visit to the SIP Vespa store in Landsberg/Lech? It’s definitely worth it!
With this in mind, have a safe journey at all times!
