I love my S150, I really do, but a month in, I’m starting to see some of the shortcomings of style over function compared to the LX models. If you’re out there trying to toss up the difference between the two, consider the following:

I’ve been missing the glove-box since day one frankly. Having the extra leg-room (I’m 6’3″) is a bonus, but storing insurance papers, documentation and other bits and pieces in the under-seat storage alongside wet rain gear, scooter cover, chain lock and everything else is getting old fast. I’ve made myself a paper-work “pocket” that I’ve taped to the under-side of the seat to keep it away from the wet gear, but I’d love to have a dedicated space for this kind of thing.

The front pockets on the S are pretty much useless outside of sun-glasses storage. And of course, you can’t leave anything in there permanently unless you want to risk getting it stolen. I’ve also had a couple of items jump out on to the running board during transit so be warned. I haven’t trusted my iPhone to that spot yet and I don’t recommend you do either.

Second, I took the bike out for it’s first two-up ride last night (thanks to my brave girlfriend). I bought the Vespa rear-rack last week so at least she had some extra back stability and a space to store her helmet, but it’s clear that the S sport seat is not intended for two riders – no way, no how. I was pushed way too far forward on the seat and had to put some serious muscle behind the handle bars to stop the two of us sliding forward on the brakes, meanwhile she was tipped back off the seat’s angle. I guess a trip to the store for the touring seat is my next purchase, but that’s a $350 or so additional cost – around the price difference between the S and the slightly more expensive LX.

Also the LX comes with passenger grab rails, whereas with the S they don’t come as standard, but instead as part of the optional rear-rack – again a $300 or so purchase. In short, the LX is a 2 person machine right out of the gate (under the hood is a different question altogether.)

Finally, the S doesn’t come with an anti-theft ignition immobilizer – presumably a cost-cutting measure on the part of Piaggio. Being an NYC rider I’m already using a hefty chain to the chassis whenever possible and disc-break lock always so it’s not a deal breaker but, of course, any additional security would be welcome.

Conclusions? Well, my beefs are clearly above but let’s not forget why I got back into the scootering scene after all these years. Aesthetics. The S was the first modern Vespa since the launch of the ET models in the U.S. that finally peaked my interest. Actually, that’s putting it too simply – I fell in love with the S the first time I saw it. I’m just not a fan of the looks of the LX although it’s clearly a huge improvement over the ETs. The ultra thin leg shield, lack of passenger grab bars and sport seat of the S all trim off the excess fat of the LXs and man, that square headlamp and wing-mirror combination sealed the deal.

‘Till next time.

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