Vespa on Highest Road in North America

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  • Опубліковано 27 гру 2024

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  • @Banditooro
    @Banditooro 7 місяців тому +10

    I rode Harleys from my 20-s into my 60's. Now all I have is a Vespa (300 GTS) and I am still enjoying the road. Its all about being on two wheels and enjoying the outdoors.

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  7 місяців тому

      👍

    • @cottagegymfun
      @cottagegymfun Місяць тому

      I just started riding. I'm 59!
      I have a Yamaha 155 Nmax, and a Vespa 300 GTS. I was eyeing the big motorcycles but no more since I only ride locally and the occasional day trips sans freeways. No need for a big bike.
      Life is good 👍

  • @sonkaldo
    @sonkaldo Рік тому +17

    What a great video. Its videos like these that make be believe the US is a beautiful country and that there are lovely people that live there and not just the horror we see on our news here in Australia. Thank you❤

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +3

      We’ve got our issues for sure, but there are still lots of good people and nice places. 👍

    • @IceAge20017
      @IceAge20017 Рік тому

      What kind of things are they telling you? I'm genuinely curious as an American.

    • @jasontomica8938
      @jasontomica8938 Рік тому

      ​@@flatgrindridesOuch, no windscreen, you are a brave soul. A tall windscreen would change everything on your microphone that I can hear all the wind. And everything hitting your chest and helmet not a wise choice but your brave

    • @jasontomica8938
      @jasontomica8938 Рік тому +1

      A tall windshield is where it's at very quiet like sitting in your apartment

    • @F-tt3xv
      @F-tt3xv 6 місяців тому

      @@IceAge20017First of all your politicians, one liar and is senile. Both are old as f@ck. Drugs, murder, gangs, extreme nationalism, aggression against europe (most white americans are europeans, why stabb the euros in the back?), attitude that ”we are and make everything the best”, etc. You asked, now accept the answer……..

  • @Retro_Iron
    @Retro_Iron Рік тому +6

    Some stunning scenery. That is one big rock pile!! Looks like the Vespa handled the elevation / atmospheric changes flawlessly. Thanks for the ride and the commentary. Well done.

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому

      Thanks! Yeah, the Vespa handled the elevation with no problem at all. I’m pretty impressed with how capable of bike it can be.

    • @juliodiaz4493
      @juliodiaz4493 Рік тому

      ​@flatgrindrides I have the gts super sport 300 I lose my key my vespa is keyless I have a problem in my hand now men

  • @JdilpkleRS
    @JdilpkleRS Рік тому +12

    I be ridden street bikes since 1974 and currently own a VStrom and a 1977 airhead BMW. I never in a million years thought I’d even consider a Vespa - look what you’re done!! I’m watching your Vespa videos. I think a big hindrance is my ego, being an experienced “real” motorcycle street bike rider. Oh my, you have put me in a real predicament.
    In a few words, or a video, push me over to the Vespa side. I can think of more reasons NOT to get a Vespa, but the attraction is unmistakable. How about something for us “macho” bikers that are afraid to make the jump. Love the videos - but I have to watch them with the blinds drawn - ha ha! Seriously, help us fence sitters out. Thank you so much!! Joe

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +2

      😂 Hi Joe. Let me think about this and I’ll get back to you. Glad you’ve enjoyed the videos. 😉

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +1

      I've been thinking about doing a video on this, but I've been too busy to get to it. Have you resolved your predicament? It is interesting how we think about "real" motorcycles and Vespa/scooters, isn't it?

    • @2wheelsrbest327
      @2wheelsrbest327 4 місяці тому

      Currently riding a BMW GS Joe but like you I quite fancy buying a Vespa after watching this great video. Aged 73 it also looks far more appealing than riding my bicycle as well.

    • @craigrogers9799
      @craigrogers9799 3 місяці тому

      I think the ultimate expression of being macho is to not give a crap what other people think about your motorcycle, car etc. I ride a moped, drive a honda and have a tiny dog. But no one dares to tell me I must be a sissy because I walk and talk like a man who is not compensating for a lack of anything else. 👍

    • @mr.greenbrier7137
      @mr.greenbrier7137 21 день тому

      I too rode motorcycles off/on from 20s-50s. Gave up my last bike in 2013. 2016, I didn't renew my motorcycle endorsement because I really didn't have anyone to ride with and my wife wasn't a fan (big mistake). I retired in 2020 and moved down to rual florida. Been looking at getting back into bikes again and started seeing men riding Vespas. The 300 GTS caught my eye and I'm planning on getting one. It took me a little while to drop the idea of going to a scooter, but the Vespa has a nostalgia look that I like. Unfortunately I have to get my endorsement again, but a class on motorcycles doesn't bother me. In fact I'm looking forward to it again.

  • @Truthseeker71
    @Truthseeker71 Рік тому +4

    That was beautiful! Thanks for sharing your ride!

  • @johnnyboy1586
    @johnnyboy1586 9 місяців тому +1

    Really enjoyed the scenery and commentary, just goes to show you don't need a big powerful bike to have a good time😊

  • @Cantorisalto1
    @Cantorisalto1 Рік тому +3

    Wonderful video and so interesting to see the landscape - videos of adventures are always more interesting. Would love to see more camping Vespa expeditions. Your presentation skills and manner is spot on!! Looking forwards to future vlogs. Thank you so much!!

  • @frankiepavinato
    @frankiepavinato Рік тому +2

    Good to see you back!! What a nice trip you had! 🎉

  • @gkelly34
    @gkelly34 Рік тому

    Just gorgeous, lucky you having this beauty on your doorstep 🥰

  • @vespaonderweg
    @vespaonderweg Рік тому +1

    WoW, what a landscape! ❤ thanks for sharing 👍

  • @Scott-ye4qh
    @Scott-ye4qh 6 місяців тому

    Beautiful scenery and a beautiful scooter 🛵 🤗 Thank you for the ride along. 😎👍

  • @davewalton2358
    @davewalton2358 Рік тому +2

    Great to see you back in action again, really enjoyed your other videos (and watched some of them several times now). I've been off the bike for many weeks now with a back injury (awaiting cortisone injections) and can't wait to get back on. Loving the Vespa, smaller bikes and scoots are just so much fun. Looking forward to more new videos. Epic scenery you have there, so different to what we have here in Australia...

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому

      Thank you! Glad you’ve enjoyed them. Good luck with your back. In my experience, the healing just takes time. Take care.

  • @vespa7265
    @vespa7265 Рік тому +1

    Good to see you're back. Take care buddy.

  • @2wheelsrbest327
    @2wheelsrbest327 4 місяці тому

    Thank you for a great video. I currently ride a BMW GS but after watching this and given I am 73 I could be tempted to now buy a Vespa. You have gained another Sub.

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  4 місяці тому

      I have big adv bike too. Different tools, different pleasures. 😉👍

  • @Zander10102
    @Zander10102 Рік тому +1

    Good to see you back on here!

  • @AltitudeRider
    @AltitudeRider Рік тому

    Glad you’re on the mend and back on the road! I adjusted my shocks last week and it makes all the difference in the world! The dealer delivered on the lowest setting. No longer squishy going through the turns and feels much more stable! I also took my seat to a local upholstery shop and he flattened out the ridge in the seat so I can move back 3-4 inches. Major improvement! Thanks for the great ride and video!

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому

      Nice! Yeah, I ride with my butt against the little ridge. Some extra space probably would be kind of nice.

  • @ElwoodPDowd-ed7pc
    @ElwoodPDowd-ed7pc Рік тому

    Yes, i must agree … really nice video and just enough well balanced commentary to keep it interesting. Great, fun ride!

  • @vespaenthusiaststimlisah.
    @vespaenthusiaststimlisah. Рік тому +2

    What a ride! Some of the turns you made looked like you could just ride right off the edge of the cliff. Unbelievable! Great footage 👍🛵🛵

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +1

      I could have, but thankfully I didn't! 😉 Thanks for the kind words. Glad you enjoyed it.

  • @michaelhiggins7365
    @michaelhiggins7365 Рік тому

    I super enjoyed this one, loads of great scenery. Thanks so much.

  • @kenhoward3512
    @kenhoward3512 8 місяців тому

    'Very pretty ride and just the right amount of thoughtful narration. 'Beautiful sky, that day. I was just thinking, mid-way up, how unusual it seems, living in these times of such obsession with safety, to be on a road with steep drop-offs, yet no guard rails obstructing the view. The Vespa engine seemed to handle the ascent and altitude just fine. Thanks!

  • @philk9227
    @philk9227 Рік тому

    Great video. Some fantastic scenery! Never underestimate a scooter's ability to get places 🙂

  • @JoeDplummer_
    @JoeDplummer_ Рік тому

    Amazing ride!.. and such beautiful views. I wish someday I can take my Vespa over there. Thanks for sharing 👍🛵✨

  • @bubuhh76
    @bubuhh76 7 місяців тому

    Thank you so much for taiking me up this hills! 🤙🤘👍👍👍

  • @jamesconner3437
    @jamesconner3437 8 місяців тому

    The 300 is a verifiable road warrior. I followed the daily episodes of a guy who rode double with his wife all the way from Canada to Costa Rica....in the snow, rain, desert heat...amazing story.

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  8 місяців тому

      That's pretty awesome. I bet it was a great tour.

  • @NoFrictionZone
    @NoFrictionZone Рік тому

    Awesome video as usual. You just seem like a super respectful guy, an art that has been lost. Good stuff sir.

  • @EnricoGagliano-iv9iw
    @EnricoGagliano-iv9iw 8 місяців тому

    Another amazing video! Good Vespa ride 👍

  • @armedferret
    @armedferret Рік тому

    Glad to see you up and about again!

  • @lucianocastelli913
    @lucianocastelli913 Рік тому

    Bellissimo video, bellissimi posti, gran pilota👏😉

  • @IceAge20017
    @IceAge20017 6 місяців тому +1

    I was just on this pass a few days ago with my car. They renamed it to mount Blue Sky now.

  • @vespa.lifestyle.aachen
    @vespa.lifestyle.aachen 10 місяців тому +1

    Wow, what a beautiful landscape. That's incredible. Very nice shots man. Greetings from Germany - Roland

  • @yoldayizbiz
    @yoldayizbiz Рік тому

    Thank you sharing this nice video :)

  • @ggj666
    @ggj666 Рік тому

    What a fantastic road, can almost smell that fresh mountain air from here Norfolk UK about 25ft above sea level :o)

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +1

      Thanks! You have more horsepower down there with the sea breezes for sure. 😉

  • @vesparama
    @vesparama 6 місяців тому

    Wow! Awesome stuff.

  • @gryphonstudio1969
    @gryphonstudio1969 7 місяців тому

    Enjoyable video..well done

  • @dokoe213
    @dokoe213 8 місяців тому

    stunning place

  • @e.miller8943
    @e.miller8943 Рік тому

    Great scenery, reminds me of Rocky Mountain National Park with a few less tourists.

  • @bfarm44
    @bfarm44 7 місяців тому

    Thanks for the ride I forgot how
    many times I said holy shit about the view. I never knew this existed

  • @SlackSloth
    @SlackSloth Рік тому

    How do you record the audio? It's very clear. The channel is fantastic. I'm following.

  • @two.ho.us.e
    @two.ho.us.e 2 місяці тому

    Boy is it incredible. I also plan to buy a Vespa and go on a trip to Europe. I have a few questions: how much can you actually drive in a day and what were the problems with the Vespa during the trip

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  2 місяці тому +1

      Sounds like fun. I haven’t really had any problems. As to how much you could ride in a day, I think that’s really up to you and your comfort. You could ride all day or longer if you’re up for it and you have fuel available. 😉

  • @ThePowerchecker
    @ThePowerchecker Рік тому

    nice trip. regards from germany

  • @Dumi15
    @Dumi15 Рік тому

    Amazing video 👏! What camera are you using?

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому

      Thanks!
      Camera:
      ua-cam.com/video/p3JW9ecJ13c/v-deo.html

  • @gerardgerard5681
    @gerardgerard5681 Рік тому

    Great video

  • @rickbumbaca240
    @rickbumbaca240 Рік тому +1

    What a fantastic ride. I would love to ride that. What was your total mileage for that day? I hope your back heals up. Thanks for sharing

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +1

      It was a really fun ride. Total mileage was about 240 miles. With all the stops, etc. about 9 hours.

  • @rickiejacobs5910
    @rickiejacobs5910 Рік тому

    I rode that rode with my a group in 1979 after going to Sturgis. End of July and there was snow on the ground up there. I was riding my 1972 Honda CB500 Four with carburetors of course. Anyway my plugs were fouling out and had to stop to clean them. One of my buddies asked if I took the air cleaning out so the engine can get more of the thin air. I wish they told me that sooner,lol. So how did the FI do up there?

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +1

      I bet that was a great trip! Those old CBs are classics. I got my first bike in 79 but it was a dirt bike. When I did this ride I wondered what it would’ve been like in the early days, both with the carbureted bikes, and the condition of the road… The bike ran great, and the fuel injection seem to perform just fine. There was a little less power at altitude it seemed but not anything significant. It was a fun ride!

    • @rickiejacobs5910
      @rickiejacobs5910 Рік тому

      @@flatgrindrides my first bike was a Rupp Roadster 2 1971 model mini bike. Then my first street bike was a11973 Honda CL 125s. Rode that on and off road. That was the bike I passed my motorcycle test in 1974. Then I got a 1974 Kawasaki 250 Triple, it was a 2 cycle engine like the 500 and 750 versions. It was pretty fast for a 250 but rode rough and got terrible gas mileage. Then I got the 1972 Honda 500 Four. It rode better and got better gas mileage than the Kawasaki.
      That was just the ones I had in the 70’s.

  • @iggyzorro2406
    @iggyzorro2406 Рік тому

    Thanks for the great ride. Glad you're back and well. I have never adjusted pre-load on any bike I owned. Does moving it up make the suspension stiffer? Did the Vespa have any breathing problems over two miles above sea level?

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +1

      This is the best video I found on adjusting preload and explaining how it works. It’s in German, but it has English subtitles.
      ua-cam.com/video/DSYbFiJ-A88/v-deo.html
      It doesn’t make it firmer, adjusts the height and for lack of a better way to put it, “the neutral position” within the range of travel of the shocks. for example, if the preload is set to very low position and a heavy rider sits on the bike, it will compress a lot and the chassis will get closer to the ground. Increasing the preload setting will reduce the amount that the chassis will sink when that heavy rider sits on the bike again, retaining more of the suspension travel for compression from bumps. That’s kind of a simplified explanation, the video will explain it more clearly.
      The Vespa did great at altitude. No issues whatsoever.

  • @Fourwedge
    @Fourwedge Рік тому

    Great video. I'm new to motovlogging on my Vespa. I'm interested to know what mic setup you have in your helmet?

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +1

      Thanks!
      Helmet Cam Setup & Audio Secrets
      ua-cam.com/video/p3JW9ecJ13c/v-deo.html

  • @joseedumont3231
    @joseedumont3231 Рік тому

    you made me laugh when you said...it is propably hard to keep this road paved...this is my reality where I live...it's like that all the time 🤣 (live in Canada)

  • @x2s7
    @x2s7 7 місяців тому

    how do you feel about the stability of this bike going 100kmph or 60+mph? are the 12 inch wheels able to handle it? any speed wobbles?

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  7 місяців тому +1

      No speed wobbles. Stability is good. Better than I expected.

    • @x2s7
      @x2s7 7 місяців тому

      @@flatgrindrides thanks for the feedback!

  • @edwardwojtecki1534
    @edwardwojtecki1534 24 дні тому

    I take it the new Vespa is fuel injected ??? Had a meeting with bikers on Maui pulled over at the 8500 above sea level area. Some were adjusting their carbs for the haul to 1200 or something near that. The others had fuel injected sport bikes. Your Vespa handled that climb with ease. Cheers Ed

  • @scp-09698
    @scp-09698 Рік тому

    What camera do you use?! Absolutely stunning omg

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +1

      Thanks!
      Camera:
      ua-cam.com/video/p3JW9ecJ13c/v-deo.html

    • @scp-09698
      @scp-09698 Рік тому

      you are awesome , love watching your videos@@flatgrindrides

  • @Scootphoria
    @Scootphoria Рік тому +1

    Max preload and still too much sag? You don't look 500lbs!!!! 🤣
    Beautiful scenery.Glad you out riding again. I didn't hear you say anything else, so I'm guessing your back was ok on the ride?
    You do know how to make a return from a hiatus !!!!

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +1

      I'm only about 230. Maybe I should have my assistant measure again?! LOL. My back was a bit sore as it was a nine hour ride when it was all said and done, but I'm OK! 👍

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +2

      Just did another round of sag measurements to confirm.
      S1 = static sag, rear wheel off ground
      S2 = rider sag after rear lifted and allowed to settle with rider in position.
      S3 = rider sag after rear pressed down and allowed to settle with rider in position.
      S1: 139mm
      S2: 90
      S3: 89
      139-89.5 = 49.5
      Rider sag is about 50mm with both rear shocks set to the highest of the four preload settings. This has me very curious. I would like to know what figures others are seeing on their bikes.

  • @vladanpesic5804
    @vladanpesic5804 Рік тому

    Great video. Where the camera is placed?

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому

      It’s a GoPro mounted to the chin bar of my helmet.

  • @adrianmiller7506
    @adrianmiller7506 6 місяців тому

    I saw you were going through boulder

  • @CaryInVictoria
    @CaryInVictoria Рік тому

    I rode that road many years ago and recall feeling queasy from the thinner air near the summit. It didn't affect my riding partner, however.

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому

      I’ve been up there twice, and the first time I could feel the altitude. A little pressure in my head. On this trip I didn’t notice it at all.

  • @BridgeandTunnelScooterClub
    @BridgeandTunnelScooterClub Рік тому

    love the tunnels

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому +1

      No bridges, but I’ve got the tunnels covered! 😉

  • @mzs114
    @mzs114 3 місяці тому

    I hope you get to test the good modern day electric scooters, like we have now in India, Ather, Ola Pro, River Indie. Some of these cross 100kmph.

  • @Gregs_World
    @Gregs_World 6 місяців тому

    Perhaps you have answered this before but I wonder what horsepower loss you appreciated that high-altitude?
    One reason you'd certainly never to ride a 150cc Vespa to the end of that road

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  6 місяців тому +1

      I have no idea how to quantify it. I live at about 5000 feet and the difference was noticeable, but it’s hard for me to estimate it as a percentage or as a measure of actual horsepower. The bike was noticeably less powerful, but not to the point of being an issue.

    • @Gregs_World
      @Gregs_World 6 місяців тому

      @@flatgrindrides That is a perfect reply and I really appreciate it. I'm glad that it didn't make the bike unrideable that that altitude

  • @pilifiksveurg6642
    @pilifiksveurg6642 Рік тому

    Do you have some issue with breaks on a downhill?

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому

      No. None of these descents were particularly steep. In general, I think the brakes are adequate, that the stopping distance is longer than I expect given the weight of the bike. The ABS is strong in that it almost always prevents a skid, even under heavy braking. Sometimes I would like less ABS intervention, but I understand why they’ve engineered it this way.

  • @IceAge20017
    @IceAge20017 Рік тому

    Did you get a bumper sticker that says it survived the climb?

  • @DaBinChe
    @DaBinChe 5 місяців тому

    scenery looks just like Pike's peak but with a more beat up road

  • @juliodiaz4493
    @juliodiaz4493 Рік тому

    I have a vespa gts super 300 this bike is gorgeous motorcycle i seen nothing like it

  • @geraldscott4302
    @geraldscott4302 2 місяці тому

    I have also ridden Harleys from age 16 to 65, and still have a carbureted Sportster 1200. I also have a Vespa GT200. I chose the GT 200 because it is carbureted. I have never owned a computer bike, and have no intention of ever owning one. The GT200 is just as fast as the GTS300, without all the TRASH technology. I have taken 500 mile trips on it with no problems. It only requires half the major maintenance that the new GTS300 HPE models have. I have never had a broken belt on it, the new Vespa HPE models have been breaking belts at under 6000 miles.

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  2 місяці тому

      There’s definitely something to be said for tried and true simplicity. I have a carbureted TW200 with a drum break on the rear. Yes, it’s just a simple farm bike, but it’s dead, reliable and loads of fun. Ride what speaks to you and have a good time. 👍

    • @geraldscott4302
      @geraldscott4302 2 місяці тому

      @@flatgrindrides I had a Yamaha XT225 for almost 20 years. It was bulletproof, and super easy to do maintenance on. But I reached the point where I could no longer get on and off of it without standing on something, and I could no longer fix a flat tube type tire by myself, so I sold it.

  • @arturomolina7136
    @arturomolina7136 Рік тому

    Is this a Vespa 300, looks like you’re driving over 65 mph🤔

  • @bluedolphin5792
    @bluedolphin5792 Рік тому

    What size Vespa?

  • @juliodiaz4493
    @juliodiaz4493 Рік тому

    Don't worry you in a vespa you saved you good a vespa

  • @moderndaybumliving
    @moderndaybumliving 6 місяців тому

    I went thru that route 2020 coming back from Yellowstone

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  6 місяців тому

      😂 Not a great place to run out of gas. Actually, on second thought, maybe not too bad. Lots of fellow travelers who might be willing to help a guy out. 😉

    • @moderndaybumliving
      @moderndaybumliving 5 місяців тому

      Could have been better, could have been worse lol. We were just soooo close to the gas station, smh

  • @juliodiaz4493
    @juliodiaz4493 Рік тому

    What can you say to me lose my key

  • @edicon2392
    @edicon2392 5 місяців тому

    you dont use windshield? lol

  • @markplinsky
    @markplinsky 5 місяців тому

    Is the microphone inside your mouth?

  • @frostydog03
    @frostydog03 Рік тому

    Wow. I haven't been up there in 35 years at least. Forgot how great the view is. I absolutely woulda had to lose that yellow tag flapping on the mirror. Very annoying. It's like your eyes get drawn to it.

    • @flatgrindrides
      @flatgrindrides  Рік тому

      Yeah, in hindsight, I should’ve pulled that darn thing off and just stuck it in my pocket! Stay frosty, dog! 👍😉

  • @mray8519
    @mray8519 Рік тому

    Route 6 at the beginning.

  • @JamesDCornette
    @JamesDCornette 6 місяців тому

    Lucky, if that's rush hour

  • @phat-kid
    @phat-kid 28 днів тому

    18:16 no, you don't need your slingshot right now

  • @F-tt3xv
    @F-tt3xv 6 місяців тому

    The tuff Harley guys dont need helmets. 😂

  • @juliodiaz4493
    @juliodiaz4493 Рік тому

    That the vespa 300

  • @espenbgh2540
    @espenbgh2540 3 місяці тому

    taking the tour twice and not ditching or crasch the Vespa like to be seen in manyother film from other two wheelers as they af so fantastic to do, and giving their stupid excuses!

  • @drdreddmanofmystery9482
    @drdreddmanofmystery9482 Рік тому

    South Park?!? That's a real place? lol

  • @SlackSloth
    @SlackSloth Рік тому

    Do u have a Instagram account?