2005 Genuine Scooter Company Stella review from United States of America
"Classic style, ride, and economy with some modern enhancements at a great price."
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
Front brake switch is vulnerable to water. It failed after the first time I ran in the rain. Replaced with a new one for $7 (didn't even take it to the dealer) and squished some dielectric grease into it.
Paint flakes easily, I will get it powdercoated at some point.
At 1000 miles the headlight switch wire wore through the insulation (from hand-shifter) and shorted. I cut it and spliced it with a crimp-connector, which should hold up in the future. Once again I could have taken it to the dealer, but decided not to.
General comments?
Classic Vespa styling, great reliability (in stock form), easily modified (Simonini pipe alone will boost performance 25-30% for $130), almost every aftermarket 150PX part will fit. $1200 less than a Vespa version.
I decided to buy this scooter because I knew that I would always be able to find a modern scooter, but these classically-styled beauties would not be long for this earth. This also had disc brakes, gas shocks, reed induction, 12V electrical system, E-start, and stronger ignition. Add to that the price difference between this and the Vespa PX150 and you have a clear winner. With the money I saved I can modify the Stella like crazy (double HP and 80mph top speed) and get a powder-coat finish, and it will cost about as much as the standard PX.
These scooters are fun to put around on standard, but I would highly recommend getting at least a performance pipe (after about 600-800 miles of break-in). I am 300lbs, and with a simonini can easily get to 50 under most circumstances. Standard barrel tops out around 55-60. I am averaging about 70 mpg with the pipe on.
The only real drawback I've found is that the paint flakes easily on this scooter - no primer was put on and it is one thin coat. I would definitely recommend it getting repainted at some point - I'm fine with touching up every now and again until I get the gumption to do so.
This scooter is currently out of production, but with luck LML will work through their labor issues, and many others can enjoy this modern classic.
Recommended Reviews:
 | For what it is, what it costs, and what it will do, I'm well satisfied with Stella |
| Buy one |
All Genuine Scooter Company Stella reviews
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 2005 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Acceleration marks | 9/10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Handling marks | 8/10 |
| Braking marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 1100 miles |
| Most recent distance | 1100 miles |
| Date of Entry | 23rd April, 2007 |