Want to replace my dad's 10-year-old Vespa: electric or petrol scooter?

I would ideally prefer an electric scooter (read Ather), but open to petrol scooter options as well.

BHPian GrandTourer recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

The question is exactly what's in the title. Which scooter to go for, for my 70 yo father - an electric or conventional ICE scooter?

A bit of background:

My father is a general physician and goes to his clinic in Madh Island from Yari Road daily via a short ferry ride (two-wheelers go on it). He's currently using a 2014 Vespa VX 125 and refuses to give up on it. However, I fear that the Vespa is on its last legs and might break down anytime without warning. Also, since it's a 10 yo vehicle, maintenance costs are increasing consistently just to keep it running in good condition.

I think I kind of convinced Dad on an electric scooter (got a reluctant nod - which is as good as a yes), but then when I checked with Ather, they don't have a single dealership in Mumbai. The closest one is in Vashi and they (obviously) don't have doorstep test drives available in Versova. Also, after reading all the horror stories about Ola, I don't want to go that route.

So here I'm back with the possibility of getting an ICE scooter. Before I get down to the requirements and shortlist, here are a few things that are a strict NO-GO:

• I'm not looking for a car, as Dad's daily commute involves a ferry hop. I understand that he'd be more comfortable in a car at his age, but that's not an option as the commute by road is easily 1.5-2 hrs via Malad
• He cannot ride a motorcycle anymore, so let's not suggest that (had an accident a long time ago)
• He's a sedate rider who hardly ever crosses 50 km/h, so fancy powerful scooters are not something we're looking for (Although I'd have loved an Aerox, but it's not for him)

Now coming to requirements:

• Dad is around 5 ft 8 in, and on the heavier side, so needs a scooter that will accommodate him comfortably
• Ideally open to Electric (read Ather), but as mentioned earlier, there are no dealerships in Mumbai anymore, as well as no service centres. If there is a good chance of Ather opening in the city, I might consider the 450S or X
• If ICE, looking for a fuel-efficient scooter. But considering he's coming from a 10yo Vespa, anything would be more fuel-efficient
• Shouldn't be too heavy for Dad to manoeuvre and put it on the main stand
• The daily commute is around 5km, with occasional runs within the suburbs
• Looking for something practical since it will also be used for daily errands. So a large boot and flat footboard are welcome

I had shortlisted a few scooters but would love your opinion on it based on the above writeup:

1. Ather 450s: Loved both 450s and 450x, but since the commute is low and power is not high on the priority list for Dad, 450s made more sense (until I found out about the dealership situation)
2. Suzuki Burgman: It's quite a comfortable scooter and looks different as well. Tried and tested the 125cc engine, connected phone (although won't be used much), front disc, and 21L storage are all great. Apart from that weight might be a concern
3. Suzuki Access: Better alternative to the oh-so-common Activa, and much of the same features as Burgman, but in a more conventional styling
4. Honda Activa: Oh so common!
5. Ather Rizzta: Should I wait for it? Is the pricing going to be astronomical for it?

Any other I missed?

Here's what BHPian aargee had to say on the matter:

Yes, a very pertinent point: If your average running distance is <15 Km a day, then it's not worth getting an EV scooter unless there's loads of cash at your disposal {Pls read <5% of your annual income for a start}. Comfortable, yes, Access 125 certainly is, but also request to consider the perspective of the other side

Offering a new scooter to your father, from a Child's perspective, is an act of love and affection. However, if the Parent values the sentimental importance of owning a few lifetime possessions, our well-intentioned gesture might be perceived as disrespectful to his cherished belongings & feelings.

Also, when the scooters are loaded onto the ferry, hopefully, there are no acts of negligence to cause dents & scratches on a new scooter & that's taken care.

Here's a middle path for you to think about {just consider}: Restore the old Vespa to the original pristine. This will be:

• Lower cost option
• You meet your objective of getting a better life & reliability to the old vehicle
• Your Father gets to keep his prized possession
• Last but not least, Vespa is the most comfortable scooter & excellent engineering that no Petrol scooter offers in the current market.

Here's what BHPian Iyencar had to say on the matter:

The TVS iqube and Bajaj Chetak are well-made electric scooters backed by strong brands. Plus they have that retro look going for them like the Vespa. Definitely test ride those. The Burgman is a great scooter and you don’t feel the weight as much. The Hero Xoom could be another “maxi” -ish option.

Here's what BHPian IshaanIan had to say on the matter:

I would say don’t get an electric one just yet since the tech still is a generation away from getting perfected, it won’t last a decade and expecting an old person to adapt to something very different from what they are used to, can be tough thus I would recommend sticking with an ICE scooter for your dad and perhaps getting an electric one for yourself.

How about the Yamaha Fascino? It weighs less than most scooters making it by far one of the easiest to ride, and it also gives more mileage than the rest. Please check it out before dismissing it

Here's what BHPian shancz had to say on the matter:

While well-intentioned you've to also consider what seniors are most comfortable with.

Things like muscle memory count and even some basic electronics which aren't a concern for us become an annoyance for them.

You'll be surprised how a lot of the latest vehicles mess up the basics which matter every day.

I don't think an EV fits your case:

• Your running doesn't justify it.
• Quite a few of the EV features are touch-activated which might be of annoyance to your Dad.
• As for ICE scooters, I agree with the "way too many Activas" and there are good alternatives available.

In order of preference:

1. Jupiter 125: fits the best IMO with step adjustable rear suspension, humongous storage which can take 2 face helmets, and front fuel filler as its major USP
2. Access 125: good acceleration, fibre body panels make it lighter, check for rear suspension comfort when solo
3. Hero Maestro 110/125: no experience with this but have heard positive reviews from contacts and Hero is FNG-friendly due to the easy availability of spares.
4. Yamaha Fascino: had a short test ride, was smooth, comfortable and have heard it's efficient

But first, take your Dad for test rides and post all these ask him if would like to change or is happy with the Vespa. His decision should be paramount and final.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.