Five years ago I was given seven years to live as a result of a terminal illness. I began riding in 1982 on a 1973 Vespa Sprint. Life got in the way. Then, I became ill. The wife gave me the green light on buying a new scooter on 22 June 2023. I have ridden daily since then. Your words here resonate with me. I call it wind therapy. Be young. Be foolish. Be happy. 🛵🏁🎯 Ride safe. Cheers!
Wing therapy. I like that. Flying and angels come to mind... Medical predictions and prognostications. Worth listening to I suppose but at best they might reflect some statistical norm. After my heart attack I read that for my "type" 90 percent of patients had a second within a year. I'm 9 years out now and no issues. So perhaps we both find ourselves at the end of the statistical bell curve. Or the riding is doing something unexpected...
I'm 71 and have been riding scooters and motorcycles since I was 8. Now I have MS and have found riding my scooter helps my balance as well as mood. Anything with 2 wheels and an engine works for me.
Thank you for your comment. i too am 71 and dealing with MS, and now i'm gonna do it.. my Honda Forza 300 was swiped at the beginning of covid and i've been in a wheeled cage ever since and i think it's been deleterious to my health. time to buy a Vespa.
Thanks for sharing your riding experience and how it helps you. Riding definitely can transform my mood. And it is a good indicator for any changes in balance I might have. Especially when I am pushing a motorcycle out of the garage -- I have a good idea of balance and strength. Something I have to pay attention to as I get older and my arthritis worsens. I hope your scooter helps mitigate issues that arise from MS. And that it will lower whatever stress may come your way.
After stopping riding and selling my last motorcycle 7 years ago, at age 65, I'm reconsidering that act. This video reminds me of why I used to ride, what I've been missing, and whether to return to the hobby. Thanks (I think).
I know you're not alone in regard to getting older, giving up riding, and then reconsidering. I suppose it is a healthy process since our risks change as we get older. I just turned 70 and I still don't feel it. At least not until I'm faced with some physical challenge and I realize suddenly I'm not 25 anymore! Best wishes in your reconsideration of riding and whatever path you choose.
So true. Yesterday I went on a 140km ride on my W800. First ride in a few weeks. This morning I woke up feeling emotionally and physically refreshed and rejuvenated. It really does work. Keep enjoying the moments and sharing them with us. We all need it. My wife has memory issues so I can't leave her alone for too long. I can't get out on the bike as often as would like but when I do it really helps with the stress of dealing with my wife's issues and brings everything into perspective. Good medicine for sure. BJ
Riding a motorcycle that you connect with has an almost mystical power to rejuvenate. I'll keep seeking them out as long as I can and hope to share some of those experiences on RUclips.
17 дней назад+1
Hi! Me again. ;-) It's been 2 months. I watched this video when it was released. I watched it again today. I'm 71, got my GTS 300 on May 1st. 3,000 KM on it so far. I LOVE it! I now understand what you mean about riding a Vespa on country road. It's a meditation. All our attention is on the road (holes and bumps, etc.) and as much as possible, on the beautiful nature in which we ride. No time for the negative other stuff. I also realized that if I rode at the same speed for a while, the rhythm and sound of my darling Vespa would get me "stoned." A Vespa is another tool to enhance our spiritual life. I'm not sure I would shout this out around. I might get crucified on my darling two-wheeler. 😂
Sounds like you understand the Vespa medicine well. Congratulations on your new GTS and the adventures you're having. Riding on country roads is a gift. Especially in natural areas. And like you say, you start getting "stoned" during the ride. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences. I do appreciate them.
Hi Steve, For once we have a short but lovely spell of weather, here in South West England, so there have been some lovely rides just lately, both group rides and solo rides. Only yesterday I was out for many hours, including stops for lunch and coffee, first on my W650, then later, on my Classic 350. I was never more than 45 miles from home and was riding through the lanes of Devon, Somerset and Dorset and along the coast roads of Devon and Dorset. I felt totally restored when I eventually and reluctantly put the bikes away, at the end of the day. This video perfectly describes all the reasons I enjoy my riding now, more than at any time in my life. Thank you Steve
I'm glad some good riding weather has come your way. It's frustrating to look out the window knowing I can't ride. South West England on a W650 or Classic 350 sounds like a perfect means to soak in the landscape. I hope to get back to England someday and see more than Heathrow and London. I picture myself on a scooter or motorcycle heading to Carn Euny, the Merry Maidens stones, Porthcurno, and then finding some way out to the Isles of Scilly. That's after I explore the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands. I'm glad you found some interest in the video. As life moves forward things become clearer. For me at least.
@@ScooterintheSticks Thanks Steve, we certainly needed some good weather after the long, wet winter here. It sounds like you have a lot planned for any future trip here and I hope you can fulfil even half of that. Keep doing what you are doing Steve.
@@ScooterintheSticks Blue and White? Have had travel insurance issues for the past year but this might be clearing up and if so, I do hope to savour some bendy bits to our south🤞
One of the best videos that I have seen on the zen like nature of motorcycling. I am 62 years old and have ridden for about 35 of those. I have ridden 1100cc cruisers and 125cc scooters and loved them all! I was never one for riding fast and track days never appealed to me. Sedate rides, on country roads are what I like best. In the last few years I have lost my desire to just ride for fun. Marriage breakdown and family bereavement had taken this away. Watching this has awakened something in me and I will be out on my Royal Enfield Scram this weekend! Bright blessings to you.
"Sedate rides on country roads are what I like best." Yes sir, you and me both. When you find me on a high speed road I am purely in the transportation mode getting from point A to B. But I much prefer a meandering approach to riding. Sorry to hear of your struggles and loss. Life can deliver challenges. I have dealt with some of those things and always try to remember the old Buddhist idea -- "Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional." I can't control most of what happens in my life. But I can make choices in how I respond. Perhaps a ride on the Scram will open a door to something new and different. Or at least put you squarely in the moment as you ride. Thank you for your blessings and I hope the same for you.
That's just the most uplifted I have felt in a while - Phaedrus grown old on a scooter. I've been a petrolhead all my life (now sensible in my early 70's) but 4 wheels. I rented a scooter for a couple of weeks like I did this time last year to help some visitors out, lending my car, and I have tuned into the flow of the present just as Steve says. It's helped me deal with some resolvable but troubling health manoeuvres on the horizon. Next stop the scooter shop. Thanks for this. Now, how do I master the very slow turning? RUclips has the answers.
Your reference to Phaedrus almost has me reaching for the book.... Thank you for reminding me that I want to read it again. A riding life in our 70s presents new and sometimes unexpected challenges and opportunities. I'm glad you found your way onto a scooter. The flow is always there if we can manage to move into it. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I appreciate them.
I smiled when I read your comment. I've certainly fantasized about riding into the horizon and beyond. So far though I've not made any destructive choices that may come with addiction. Maybe I just have a relentless habit!
Steve, your philosophy on riding is spot on. Somehow I missed this episode and have only just seen it so I was getting concerned when I thought you hadn't posted anything for a while. Those lovely roads where you ride would be so theraputic.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the video. Riding certainly has real, positive, therapeutic effects on me. I've not posted anything lately because I've been out of town and not riding. Hopefully something soon...
Wow - I am a totally new rider to anything two wheeled but now have a 1998 Vespa 125. Watching your video has relaxed me even without physically riding. Not quite retired and still have a bit of stress at work, in the middle of a separation after 20+ years so both emotional and financial stress. Your words really hit home, especially the living for the moment part. I am going to use my Vespa medicine and try and adjust my life focus, as you have done, to the now because the now holds little or no stress - that only comes from dwelling on the past or fretting about the future. Great video and lovely cinematography - enjoy the moment. Regards, Dave
Sorry to hear you're going through some rough times. I guess all I can share is that when I get in a bad place I am completely capable of making it worse. I have to be careful to focus on what I can actually do and not spend too much time in the past or future. Thanks for the kind words about the video. I appreciate them.
I'll endeavor to keep posting something worth your time. You have me beat. I only have about 60 thousand miles of Vespa travel under my belt at this point. I'll keep at it though!
Hi Steve. Thanks for another great video. I can say for certain your videos are ones I look forward to. Your easy going laid back style so resonates with myself. We are a lot alike in that respect. I continue to be envious of your lovely back roads there in central PA. I wish I had similar ones where I am at here in Texas. But I do find one or two off the beaten path. I ride as much as time will allow because my Vespa is also medicine to me in the same ways. I just got it last October and already has nearly 3000 miles on it. It’s my first two-wheeler and my only regret is that I did not do this much earlier in life (I am 61). Stay safe and thanks again.
Thank you for the kind words about the videos I post. I appreciate them. Central Pennsylvania is rich with back roads and I feel I've only scratched the surface with riding them. My chronic needs in regard to mind and spirit will keep me taking the Vespa medicine. I have similar regrets at not riding sooner than I did. But I'm riding now and that's what counts. I hope you find some satisfying times on your Vespa. You're young. You have another 30 years or so to ride!!!
Hi so true what you say all the stresses seem to disappear on the bike frees up the mind and helps you have good feelings I know when I go out for couple hrs I feel so chilled when I’m home I don’t work anymore I was finished off in 2012 with physical problems spinal and that finished me off I was 52 then now 63 lost my wife in April 2021 to sepsis she had lung cancer then radio therapy then 6 months later they said there’s tiny bit there so she had radio and chemo therapy together and it was too much for her so sepsis came along and took her we would been married that same year for 40 years and I lost my mum and dad same year mum in June dad in September 3 of my closest in 5 months I’ve got 4 children and them and the bike is the only thing that keeps me going but you have to push along and keep going sorry for this but sometimes I have to let it out I’m going for a ride round in an hour or two take cars ride safe mate I’m from uk
Thank you for sharing your experiences of life and riding. Like you say, sometimes it's good to speak. I'm sorry for the loss of your wife and the challenges you face. In a few weeks my wife will undergo and complex spine reconstruction. It's scary to think about all the risks and possible outcomes. I'm grateful I have people in my life to lean on. You're blessed to have four children in your life and a motorcycle to help clean out the mind. Best wishes for safe riding and a rich life ahead.
@@ScooterintheSticks thankyou I hope your wife’s surgery goes well and she is ok and gets fully back to normal may GOD be praying for your wife and yourself take care 💪🙏👋
I'm 62 I've been riding 50 years riding keeps you mentally and physically sharp I'd die if I couldn't ride I ride a Honda Helix scooter and Honda pacific coast motorcycle but the scooter is more enjoyable at this stage of life
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I know the day will come when I can't ride. It's an uncomfortable thought. Hard to imagine anything replacing riding. But I know others have made the transition...
Hi Steve. I watch your videos from time to time and I like them a lot. Bought a GTS myself a while ago and have to say that I love her more day after day. I hope to see more videos from you in the future. Thank you and ride safely!
Greetings from Mexico! Thanks for another great video and for reminding me what a big part of my life riding used to be. My new Vespa arrives this week :-).
Great video, Steve! I didn't realize all the stress I have in my life until I watched this and listened to your soothing voice... Will I get in a ride today? Will my ride be good? Will the scenery be pretty? Will I get good gas mileage? Will the guy on the sport bike wave back? Will it be cool enough that I won't have to wear a cooling vest? Yeah, I'm kidding - your videos always make me feel blessed to be enjoying the ride. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Jim. I hope you can sneak a ride in. I checked the weather and you'll be in the triple digits this afternoon. That's no fun. I'll be riding this afternoon. It will be in the low 80s but the humidity is 75% right now. Find as long as the scooter is moving but I am looking forward to some cooler weather. Be well!
@@ScooterintheSticks Hey, Steve - we are still in the Maggie Valley (North Carolina) area after our time at the Beat The Heat scooter gathering. Unlike what Phoenix is getting, it has been mostly cool and rainy here the last couple weeks. I didn't get much of a ride in today: after a morning rain, I went out to get the scoots out for a ride and discovered my Burgman 200 had a flat tire. Couldn't find the leak, but I was able to get a new tire at Waynesville Cycle Center (dealer for Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Honda), same day; good people! Pounding rain again as I write this (Tuesday evening). The local folks tell us that this rainy spell (some rain about 12 out of the last 14 days) is unusual. When it quits raining, it is going to be *really* humid.
@@captainjim605 it’s a pleasant gift to find a really helpful dealer for service. Especially when you’re away from home. It’s hot and humid again here today. I went for a short ride. It’s fine as long as you’re moving. Lots of rain forecast for tomorrow though.I hope you get some better riding weather.
@@ScooterintheSticks Thanks, Steve - this relentless rain is wearing. I did see some blue sky while riding yesterday... then got rained on before I got back to the motorhome.
Love this video, in a couple of weeks I’m travelling from UK down to a few miles past Valencia Spain, and back. I’ve allowed myself 3 weeks (hoping for 7-8 days rest in Spain.
I had the opportunity to ride a 946 not long ago. Sure is a unique little scooter. Bigger and heavier than the other 150 scooters in the Vespa line so slightly slower. But still delivers a fine relaxed ride. Good luck with yours!
I try to ride all the machines in my garage. Sometimes for good reason. Other times just to keep them "exercised." But I'm drawn to my Vespa GTS over and over again. It's just different.
Yes. I had the repairs done and it rides like a new scooter. Saved many thousands of dollars doing that. I love the W650. It is just a very special machine. But it is completely different than the GTS. The bigger engine and wheels give a different feel to the ride. Whatever I happen to be riding seems to be my favorite at that moment. But if I could only have one machine in the garage, it would be the GTS. It has all around utility that the others don't.
Sorry for the delay in responding. I've been away and didn't have access to my music database. The piece used in the video is called "Deep Breath" by Noam Zaguri. It is licensed by Artlist to which I pay for an annual music subscription. Even though I have to pay for the subscription I have unlimited access and use for RUclips to thousands and thousands of great music pieces. And RUclips sees my license and there are no copyright issues. Makes my life a lot easier.
![Quando Rondo - Life Goes On [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/eIf3fhMXAow/mqdefault.jpg)
Five years ago I was given seven years to live as a result of a terminal illness.
I began riding in 1982 on a 1973 Vespa Sprint.
Life got in the way.
Then, I became ill.
The wife gave me the green light on buying a new scooter on 22 June 2023.
I have ridden daily since then.
Your words here resonate with me.
I call it wind therapy.
Be young.
Be foolish.
Be happy.
🛵🏁🎯
Ride safe.
Cheers!
Wing therapy. I like that. Flying and angels come to mind...
Medical predictions and prognostications. Worth listening to I suppose but at best they might reflect some statistical norm. After my heart attack I read that for my "type" 90 percent of patients had a second within a year. I'm 9 years out now and no issues. So perhaps we both find ourselves at the end of the statistical bell curve. Or the riding is doing something unexpected...
@@ScooterintheSticks 100% they’re only numbers. Be well m8. Ride safe. Cheers!
@@Dr.ModNut Thanks!
Bless you
The past is history, tomorrow is a mystery ,today is a gift, thats why its called present. May God bless.
Exactly. Took me a long time to understand that.
@@ScooterintheSticks This is it.
@@kayak63red34 Yep.
I love the saying.
Amen
I'm 71 and have been riding scooters and motorcycles since I was 8. Now I have MS and have found riding my scooter helps my balance as well as mood. Anything with 2 wheels and an engine works for me.
Thank you for your comment. i too am 71 and dealing with MS, and now i'm gonna do it.. my Honda Forza 300 was swiped at the beginning of covid and i've been in a wheeled cage ever since and i think it's been deleterious to my health. time to buy a Vespa.
Thanks for sharing your riding experience and how it helps you. Riding definitely can transform my mood. And it is a good indicator for any changes in balance I might have. Especially when I am pushing a motorcycle out of the garage -- I have a good idea of balance and strength. Something I have to pay attention to as I get older and my arthritis worsens.
I hope your scooter helps mitigate issues that arise from MS. And that it will lower whatever stress may come your way.
Sorry to hear your scooter was nicked. And that you're dealing with MS. I hope a return to a scooter helps brighten the day.
After stopping riding and selling my last motorcycle 7 years ago, at age 65, I'm reconsidering that act. This video reminds me of why I used to ride, what I've been missing, and whether to return to the hobby. Thanks (I think).
I know you're not alone in regard to getting older, giving up riding, and then reconsidering. I suppose it is a healthy process since our risks change as we get older. I just turned 70 and I still don't feel it. At least not until I'm faced with some physical challenge and I realize suddenly I'm not 25 anymore!
Best wishes in your reconsideration of riding and whatever path you choose.
So great to have you doing these posts - therapy just watching!
Thank you for the kind words about the things I post. I hope they help in some small way.
@@ScooterintheSticks They really do.
It's so true! When I ride, I feel the 10,000 lb gorilla disappear off my back. Riding has been the best relief from life for me.
Same for me.... same for me.
So true. Yesterday I went on a 140km ride on my W800. First ride in a few weeks. This morning I woke up feeling emotionally and physically refreshed and rejuvenated. It really does work. Keep enjoying the moments and sharing them with us. We all need it.
My wife has memory issues so I can't leave her alone for too long. I can't get out on the bike as often as would like but when I do it really helps with the stress of dealing with my wife's issues and brings everything into perspective. Good medicine for sure.
BJ
Riding a motorcycle that you connect with has an almost mystical power to rejuvenate. I'll keep seeking them out as long as I can and hope to share some of those experiences on RUclips.
Hi! Me again. ;-)
It's been 2 months. I watched this video when it was released. I watched it again today.
I'm 71, got my GTS 300 on May 1st. 3,000 KM on it so far. I LOVE it!
I now understand what you mean about riding a Vespa on country road. It's a meditation. All our attention is on the road (holes and bumps, etc.) and as much as possible, on the beautiful nature in which we ride.
No time for the negative other stuff.
I also realized that if I rode at the same speed for a while, the rhythm and sound of my darling Vespa would get me "stoned."
A Vespa is another tool to enhance our spiritual life. I'm not sure I would shout this out around. I might get crucified on my darling two-wheeler. 😂
Sounds like you understand the Vespa medicine well. Congratulations on your new GTS and the adventures you're having. Riding on country roads is a gift. Especially in natural areas. And like you say, you start getting "stoned" during the ride.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences. I do appreciate them.
Hi Steve,
For once we have a short but lovely spell of weather, here in South West England, so there have been some lovely rides just lately, both group rides and solo rides. Only yesterday I was out for many hours, including stops for lunch and coffee, first on my W650, then later, on my Classic 350. I was never more than 45 miles from home and was riding through the lanes of Devon, Somerset and Dorset and along the coast roads of Devon and Dorset. I felt totally restored when I eventually and reluctantly put the bikes away, at the end of the day.
This video perfectly describes all the reasons I enjoy my riding now, more than at any time in my life.
Thank you Steve
I'm glad some good riding weather has come your way. It's frustrating to look out the window knowing I can't ride.
South West England on a W650 or Classic 350 sounds like a perfect means to soak in the landscape. I hope to get back to England someday and see more than Heathrow and London. I picture myself on a scooter or motorcycle heading to Carn Euny, the Merry Maidens stones, Porthcurno, and then finding some way out to the Isles of Scilly. That's after I explore the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands.
I'm glad you found some interest in the video. As life moves forward things become clearer. For me at least.
@@ScooterintheSticks Thanks Steve, we certainly needed some good weather after the long, wet winter here.
It sounds like you have a lot planned for any future trip here and I hope you can fulfil even half of that.
Keep doing what you are doing Steve.
@@davericketts9101 will do!
“Life is now”👌 Shirley and I have enjoyed lunch in Bellafonte at Bonfattos a couple of times, perfect.
Will you be journeying to see the Blue and White this fall?
@@ScooterintheSticks Blue and White? Have had travel insurance issues for the past year but this might be clearing up and if so, I do hope to savour some bendy bits to our south🤞
@@steverinob3717 Travel insurance... at least that means you're trying to travel!
@@ScooterintheSticks Like Blue Cross😉
@@steverinob3717 I understand. 🙂
Doctor: Take two wheels, and don’t bother calling me in the morning.
😂❤️👍
One of the best videos that I have seen on the zen like nature of motorcycling. I am 62 years old and have ridden for about 35 of those. I have ridden 1100cc cruisers and 125cc scooters and loved them all! I was never one for riding fast and track days never appealed to me. Sedate rides, on country roads are what I like best. In the last few years I have lost my desire to just ride for fun. Marriage breakdown and family bereavement had taken this away. Watching this has awakened something in me and I will be out on my Royal Enfield Scram this weekend! Bright blessings to you.
"Sedate rides on country roads are what I like best."
Yes sir, you and me both. When you find me on a high speed road I am purely in the transportation mode getting from point A to B. But I much prefer a meandering approach to riding.
Sorry to hear of your struggles and loss. Life can deliver challenges. I have dealt with some of those things and always try to remember the old Buddhist idea -- "Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional." I can't control most of what happens in my life. But I can make choices in how I respond. Perhaps a ride on the Scram will open a door to something new and different. Or at least put you squarely in the moment as you ride.
Thank you for your blessings and I hope the same for you.
That's just the most uplifted I have felt in a while - Phaedrus grown old on a scooter. I've been a petrolhead all my life (now sensible in my early 70's) but 4 wheels. I rented a scooter for a couple of weeks like I did this time last year to help some visitors out, lending my car, and I have tuned into the flow of the present just as Steve says. It's helped me deal with some resolvable but troubling health manoeuvres on the horizon. Next stop the scooter shop. Thanks for this. Now, how do I master the very slow turning? RUclips has the answers.
Your reference to Phaedrus almost has me reaching for the book.... Thank you for reminding me that I want to read it again.
A riding life in our 70s presents new and sometimes unexpected challenges and opportunities. I'm glad you found your way onto a scooter. The flow is always there if we can manage to move into it.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I appreciate them.
A wonderful distillation and sharing…thank you! For me, riding is an experience of active meditation…flow!
Couldn't agree more! It takes some practice and release to get there. But worth the effort.
Another excellent video. Like other good medicines, i fear that riding can be addictive. Sometimes i just want to keep going and not come back.
I smiled when I read your comment. I've certainly fantasized about riding into the horizon and beyond. So far though I've not made any destructive choices that may come with addiction. Maybe I just have a relentless habit!
So true.
Steve, your philosophy on riding is spot on. Somehow I missed this episode and have only just seen it so I was getting concerned when I thought you hadn't posted anything for a while. Those lovely roads where you ride would be so theraputic.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the video. Riding certainly has real, positive, therapeutic effects on me. I've not posted anything lately because I've been out of town and not riding. Hopefully something soon...
Wow - I am a totally new rider to anything two wheeled but now have a 1998 Vespa 125. Watching your video has relaxed me even without physically riding. Not quite retired and still have a bit of stress at work, in the middle of a separation after 20+ years so both emotional and financial stress. Your words really hit home, especially the living for the moment part. I am going to use my Vespa medicine and try and adjust my life focus, as you have done, to the now because the now holds little or no stress - that only comes from dwelling on the past or fretting about the future. Great video and lovely cinematography - enjoy the moment. Regards, Dave
Sorry to hear you're going through some rough times. I guess all I can share is that when I get in a bad place I am completely capable of making it worse. I have to be careful to focus on what I can actually do and not spend too much time in the past or future.
Thanks for the kind words about the video. I appreciate them.
Well over 100,000 mikes here on Vespas NEW JERSEY. Now piaggio liberty 150. You’re the best. Been following you for many years now.
I'll endeavor to keep posting something worth your time.
You have me beat. I only have about 60 thousand miles of Vespa travel under my belt at this point. I'll keep at it though!
@@ScooterintheSticks you are our hero. You explain what it is all about.
Excellent medicine as usual Steve 🇬🇧🇺🇲
Thanks 👍. And with a Vespa there is no bitter aftertaste!
Hello Steve 👋 great video really enjoyed it
Thank you. I appreciate that your found it worth watching.
Thanks so much Steve for sharing your inspiring story 😊
My pleasure!
Hi Steve. Thanks for another great video. I can say for certain your videos are ones I look forward to. Your easy going laid back style so resonates with myself. We are a lot alike in that respect. I continue to be envious of your lovely back roads there in central PA. I wish I had similar ones where I am at here in Texas. But I do find one or two off the beaten path. I ride as much as time will allow because my Vespa is also medicine to me in the same ways. I just got it last October and already has nearly 3000 miles on it. It’s my first two-wheeler and my only regret is that I did not do this much earlier in life (I am 61). Stay safe and thanks again.
Thank you for the kind words about the videos I post. I appreciate them.
Central Pennsylvania is rich with back roads and I feel I've only scratched the surface with riding them. My chronic needs in regard to mind and spirit will keep me taking the Vespa medicine.
I have similar regrets at not riding sooner than I did. But I'm riding now and that's what counts. I hope you find some satisfying times on your Vespa. You're young. You have another 30 years or so to ride!!!
Hi so true what you say all the stresses seem to disappear on the bike frees up the mind and helps you have good feelings I know when I go out for couple hrs I feel so chilled when I’m home I don’t work anymore I was finished off in 2012 with physical problems spinal and that finished me off I was 52 then now 63 lost my wife in April 2021 to sepsis she had lung cancer then radio therapy then 6 months later they said there’s tiny bit there so she had radio and chemo therapy together and it was too much for her so sepsis came along and took her we would been married that same year for 40 years and I lost my mum and dad same year mum in June dad in September 3 of my closest in 5 months I’ve got 4 children and them and the bike is the only thing that keeps me going but you have to push along and keep going sorry for this but sometimes I have to let it out I’m going for a ride round in an hour or two take cars ride safe mate I’m from uk
Thank you for sharing your experiences of life and riding. Like you say, sometimes it's good to speak. I'm sorry for the loss of your wife and the challenges you face. In a few weeks my wife will undergo and complex spine reconstruction. It's scary to think about all the risks and possible outcomes. I'm grateful I have people in my life to lean on. You're blessed to have four children in your life and a motorcycle to help clean out the mind.
Best wishes for safe riding and a rich life ahead.
@@ScooterintheSticks thankyou I hope your wife’s surgery goes well and she is ok and gets fully back to normal may GOD be praying for your wife and yourself take care 💪🙏👋
@@nicholasjarrold8649 Thank you. We appreciate your prayers.
Always love to see your Vespa videos! More pls!
Will do!
I'm 62 I've been riding 50 years riding keeps you mentally and physically sharp I'd die if I couldn't ride I ride a Honda Helix scooter and Honda pacific coast motorcycle but the scooter is more enjoyable at this stage of life
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I know the day will come when I can't ride. It's an uncomfortable thought. Hard to imagine anything replacing riding. But I know others have made the transition...
Hi Steve. I watch your videos from time to time and I like them a lot. Bought a GTS myself a while ago and have to say that I love her more day after day. I hope to see more videos from you in the future. Thank you and ride safely!
The Vespa GTS can grow on you. I've had mine a long time and it still makes me smile every time I ride it.
Thanks Steve, I think this is a Vespa morning - Ride On 🛵
It was definitely a Vespa morning for me!
Great video. Very on point riding sets me free. Dials my mindset and allows me to remove distractions.
Yes, the Vespa is just what I often need. Like your experience, it is an excellent tool to focus my mind through all the distractions of life.
Greetings from Mexico! Thanks for another great video and for reminding me what a big part of my life riding used to be. My new Vespa arrives this week :-).
Congratulations on your upcoming return to riding. Many fine miles ahead!
That was great. Thanks.
Glad you liked it.
Great video, Steve! I didn't realize all the stress I have in my life until I watched this and listened to your soothing voice... Will I get in a ride today? Will my ride be good? Will the scenery be pretty? Will I get good gas mileage? Will the guy on the sport bike wave back? Will it be cool enough that I won't have to wear a cooling vest? Yeah, I'm kidding - your videos always make me feel blessed to be enjoying the ride. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Jim. I hope you can sneak a ride in. I checked the weather and you'll be in the triple digits this afternoon. That's no fun. I'll be riding this afternoon. It will be in the low 80s but the humidity is 75% right now. Find as long as the scooter is moving but I am looking forward to some cooler weather.
Be well!
@@ScooterintheSticks Hey, Steve - we are still in the Maggie Valley (North Carolina) area after our time at the Beat The Heat scooter gathering. Unlike what Phoenix is getting, it has been mostly cool and rainy here the last couple weeks. I didn't get much of a ride in today: after a morning rain, I went out to get the scoots out for a ride and discovered my Burgman 200 had a flat tire. Couldn't find the leak, but I was able to get a new tire at Waynesville Cycle Center (dealer for Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Honda), same day; good people!
Pounding rain again as I write this (Tuesday evening). The local folks tell us that this rainy spell (some rain about 12 out of the last 14 days) is unusual. When it quits raining, it is going to be *really* humid.
@@captainjim605 it’s a pleasant gift to find a really helpful dealer for service. Especially when you’re away from home.
It’s hot and humid again here today. I went for a short ride. It’s fine as long as you’re moving. Lots of rain forecast for tomorrow though.I hope you get some better riding weather.
@@ScooterintheSticks Thanks, Steve - this relentless rain is wearing. I did see some blue sky while riding yesterday... then got rained on before I got back to the motorhome.
@@ScooterintheSticks Yep - these folks at Waynesville Cycle Center are great!
Love this video, in a couple of weeks I’m travelling from UK down to a few miles past Valencia Spain, and back. I’ve allowed myself 3 weeks (hoping for 7-8 days rest in Spain.
Wow, that sounds like a fantastic adventure. Have a great time. Lots of fine memories to come!
Do you mind me asking, what camera do you use?
Thanks for the video and words of wisdom!
My pleasure!
Steve. I just bought a used 946.
Can't wait to get it.
I had the opportunity to ride a 946 not long ago. Sure is a unique little scooter. Bigger and heavier than the other 150 scooters in the Vespa line so slightly slower. But still delivers a fine relaxed ride.
Good luck with yours!
My wife told me to lose the 278cc after an accident. The 946 found me. Slow yes.
Another great and relaxing video Steve.
Greetings from Greece..
Thanks 👍. Glad you enjoyed it.
Please make a video showing the heated grips and how you installed them .
That won't happen. I can barely remember the brand I have let alone how I installed them. There are lots of videos on how to install heated grips.
Nice to see you out on the scoot again. I feel the same way and love to be out on my Sei Gorni
I try to ride all the machines in my garage. Sometimes for good reason. Other times just to keep them "exercised." But I'm drawn to my Vespa GTS over and over again. It's just different.
Ohhh yes just got a GTS300 again after moving from California to the Netherlands.
Congratulations. Have fun riding through the Netherlands and beyond!
@@ScooterintheSticks Yep any excuse to go get Chocolate in Belgium 😊
@@RogierYou I operate from a similar frame of mind here!
Hi, Steve.
Did you get your GTS repaired instead of buying a new one ?
Compare to Kawasaki 650, which is your favorite?
Thanks.
Yes. I had the repairs done and it rides like a new scooter. Saved many thousands of dollars doing that.
I love the W650. It is just a very special machine. But it is completely different than the GTS. The bigger engine and wheels give a different feel to the ride. Whatever I happen to be riding seems to be my favorite at that moment.
But if I could only have one machine in the garage, it would be the GTS. It has all around utility that the others don't.
@@ScooterintheSticks
Thank you for your reply, Steve.
I live in Taiwan. Welcome to Taiwan. You can ride my little Vespa et4 to explore Taiwan.
Hi, Can you pls tell what music you are using in this video?
Sorry for the delay in responding. I've been away and didn't have access to my music database.
The piece used in the video is called "Deep Breath" by Noam Zaguri. It is licensed by Artlist to which I pay for an annual music subscription. Even though I have to pay for the subscription I have unlimited access and use for RUclips to thousands and thousands of great music pieces. And RUclips sees my license and there are no copyright issues. Makes my life a lot easier.
@@ScooterintheSticks thanks for the reply and the information. The music is very good and suits your ride videos. Keep riding !!