Even on my commute, I don’t really have need for a topcase or rear trunk. The Vespa GT comes with a rather sturdy rack mount on the rear, which is all good, but I certainly don’t need it. What’s more, that rack mount covers up the glorious sloping rear end on the GT. So I got the idea that if I swapped the underseat plastic bracket from a GTS, I could clean up the rear end and get more of that classic Vespa shape back on my bike. This was the result. I love it.
- May 13, 2009
- By: Nathaniel Salzman
- Posted in: DIY, Scooters & Motorcycles
- 13 Comments
Now the waspy butt can be fully appreciated. :P
I never thought of it before, but I guess the tail light is like a stinger!
Hi,
Looks great!
I try rebuild my GT too. I have a one question. Could you have had mount handles under seat?
best,
Marcin
You’re talking about the passenger grab handles? The ones that come with the GT rear rack mount will not mount on this setup. It isn’t an issue for me as I never carry passengers. If you want a grab rail, you’ll need to install either the fold-down rack from the Vespa GTs, or (and this would be my preference) get the schnazzy little chrome grab rail from the GTs Super.
Yes, exactly. I would like to install the old passenger handles. I thinks this old version handles are more discreet and usable (especially take into account that I carry passenger and don’t use a topcase). Unfortunately I still wait on the plastic cover from piaggio part dealer (this under seat). I don’t know I can install handles base on this plastic. I have one additional question. You are sure that a rear rack form gts300 is full compatible wtih GT?
Thanks,
The GT grab handles don’t fit on the GTS under seat plastic tray only because there aren’t recesses in the plastic to make room for them. It’s not a fitting issue, it’s the part itself.
I’m 99% sure that the GTS Super rack is compatible with the GT. The GTs is simply an evolution on the GT, most of which is in the engine. The GT and the GTs (and super) are the exact same chassis, wheels, brakes, and front suspension. They only differ from each other in that it’s a completely different engine/rear swing arm (which is a few cm longer), a different tail light, and a different set of gauges. The frame of the two bikes is identical. As such, most (but not all) accessories are interchangeable between the two bikes, including the grab rails and rear rack options. If you look at this picture you can see how the rear grab rail on the GTs Super does reach down and tie into the two lower bolts on the rear of the bike between the tail light and the seat. If you want that grab rail, I wouldn’t hesitate to buy one and I’d be astounded if it didn’t just bolt on in about 30 seconds.
You’re smart to check though, as the rear chrome crash bars, for example, are not interchangeable between the GT and the GTs due to the different clearances needed by the two different engines.
Many thanks! I must wait on the plastic cover. I little deplore after informations about GT handles. I’m stubborn :) and at first I try modify this cover and to fit old handles. In second step I try to fit the GTS rear chrome. (installation: http://www.modernvespa.com/forum/topic45961). Thanks again. You was so helpful.
where did you get the plastic part from, has it got a parts number as it is just what i am looking for. Your bike looks great. Many thanks in anticipation.
I got it from my local Vespa dealer. It’s an under-seat part for the GTS 250. I don’t have a part number, but I can tell you that it’s about $20 and a simply bolt-on-bolt-off installation.
Hi Nathaniel, So many thanks for your help, I have changed it and it is great. Now to get some chrome for it. Keep up the good work. :D Regards Carolyn
Great!
Hi Nathaniel. That’s just what I was looking for!! Hate that plastic rack…don’t really need it but was struggling with that huge hole underneath my seat!!
Found it..just ordered it…thanks so much for sharing!
Glad I could help, Marco. Looks tons better this way.