Getting the best gas mileage out of your new Vespa
Break in Procedures Explained
Note that a new Vespa scooter mileage will vary over time (all gas powered
scooters actually). A Vespa straight from the factory is purposely tight.” That
is the engine components that move against each other are not yet in perfect
surface to surface smoothness. That is how it is suppose to be and your gas
mileage will be less. When you have that much initial engine friction your gas
mileage will be on the low side as the components are not rotating freely. This
initial period is called the “break in” period. And is a critical period for
your bike.
By the way, in my opinion, the best break in technique is to smoothly but
vigorously accelerate to high RPM. But not sustained high RPM. As the engine
gets hot it must cool down somewhat. And that is achieved by high RPM – low RPM
– high RPM – low RPM. This process results in tempering of the metal surfaces
that slide against each other in a bathe of oil. Simultaneously, the surfaces
become polished and smooth. And that results in better gas mileage after break
in.
If your oil is not pure, molecularly sound, and at the correct level your engine
performance and life expectancy can be reduced. Overly aggressive acceleration
during the break in period can overheat the metal to metal surfaces and result
in galling. Overly sustained high RPMs during the break in period can result in
poor tempering of the piston cylinder wall and galling. It can also, break down
the oil, compromising it’s effectiveness.
Calculating your Gas mileage
Figuring gas mileage is not as easy as it may seem. As well as a Vespa is made –
sometimes your fuel gauge is only an indicator of approximate fuel level. A more
accurate procedure is to go to your favorite gas station (one with a new,
unbroken fuel filler head). Note your current odometer reading (reading #1). And
fill your tank (do not top off). When you are very close to empty, return to the
same gas station. Note your current odometer reading (reading #2). Fill your
tank (do not top off). And note the amount of gas filled (reading #3).
Ok, you are now ready to calculate your gas mileage. The distance traveled since
your last fill up is calculated by reading #2 minus reading #1. Divide your
result by reading #3 and you’ll have an accurate gas mileage figure.
Factors Affecting Gas Mileage
Some of the factors which will affect your gas mileage:
Because of the relatively small size of your scooter engine, the following
factors will have a more or less profound effect on your gas mileage.
Weight (or payload): The less weight your engine has to carry the better gas
mileage you will achieve.
Tire Pressure: Only the proper tire pressure will give you the best gas mileage.
Too much pressure or too little will result in decreased gas mileage.
Aerodynamics: The use of a well designed windscreen will decrease aerodynamic
drag and increase your gas mileage.
Engine Tuning: As an engine goes out of tune – your gas mileage will decrease.
Riding style (in particular acceleration style): An aggressive acceleration
style will result in lowered gas mileage. Smooth acceleration to moderate speeds
will result in better gas mileage.
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