INTRODUCTION: Fifty years ago, Piaggio shook up the scooter world with its Vespa GS (Gran Sport), at the time the fastest Vespa, the first to reach speeds of more than 60 mph and the first Vespa model with 10-inch wheels. Today, Vespa makes history again by renewing the GS blend of speed and style in the Vespa GTS 250, an uncompromising fusion of breathtaking performance, technical superiority and classic Vespa design, to become the most exciting model to date.

PERFORMANCE: With a powerful 250cc, four-stroke, four-valve engine, the GTS has the largest displacement in the Vespa range. Advanced technology, including a liquid-cooled engine and electronic injection system with three-way catalytic converter, allows for reduced emissions and fuel consumption as well as progressive acceleration and responsive handling. Redesigned machinery, such as the exhaust, cylinder and piston, provide a smoother and quieter ride that suits the stylishly racy GTS without affecting performance.

Like every other Vespa, the GTS has the trademark single shell steel structure which provides rigidity for optimal comfort and strength to control road vibration. The frame is supported with excellent parts including 12" wheels, dual-disc braking system, a front suspension with hydraulic shock absorber, and an adjustable rear suspension that provides ideal support and riding comfort for driver and passenger alike.

STYLE: A few design changes have been made to add fluidity and dynamism to the look of the GTS, combining the Vespa's classic, exclusive look and maneuverability with the performance and technological prowess of big touring scooters. From the front, the Vespa GTS is instantly recognizable by the position of the headlight placed midway down the shield next to the horn, reminiscent of 1950s Vespas, which had a small lamp on the mudguard. The impeccably finished, double-stitched saddle adds a racy touch while improving the comfort of the ride.

The GTS also features a combination digital/analog dashboard-simple and stylish, the LCD display includes a fuel gauge, a rev counter bar, full and partial mileage, a digital clock with the date, an outside air temperature gauge and a coolant temperature gauge. Analog instruments include a speedometer and a comprehensive set of warning lights: turn signals, position and high beam lights, oil pressure, fuel reserve, the immobilizer LED light and the injection control LED light.

While its natural riding position and ergonomics have always made the Vespa comfortable, the seat on the GTS has a new shape and material for an even better ride. Carrying some bags? A rear luggage rack comes standard, and the underseat storage opens with the press of a button, making those spontaneous trips out of town convenient and hard to resist.