You articulate your thoughts so well and your ability to weave it into your videos is nothing short of amazing. Every video, you're getting better and better. I really enjoyed this video. Well done, Steve.
Thanks for your kind words Mr. Kraken. Making videos has turned out to be a good creative exercise for me. And even better, I enjoy making them. I'll enjoy it even more when it's not freezing outside while I'm riding.
Good morning Mr. Williams. It's so true how riding down a back road on your scooter can give such a sense of relaxation. It gets you temporarily away from everyday stress. At 65 I have suddenly found myself riding a Vespa GTV 300. Wish I had found it at 25.
I'm with you -- I wish I had found riding at 25 too. I sometimes daydream how might life might be different if I had. Have fun on your GTV while you can. So many roads and places still left to explore!
At 60 I have just discovered the magic and life-affirming joy of riding a Vespa 125. Life just got so much better. With you Steve and Paul wholeheartedly.
Keeping your mind clear of distractions and focused on your surroundings combined with the slight adrenaline rush of danger eased by letting your body enjoy the experience is what makes the ride so enjoyable for me.
Hello Steve, Mike here again. Unlike many I am a new rider at 71 years. I took the Vespa out today because it's the Vespa's turn to get out. I was thinking about this scootering around today over to the lake and then over to the farm. .. my escape to the outside is much more empirically verifiable and phenomenal as my caregiving continuous for the wife,.. that is most of my life is spent inside as required. I was connecting this with riding my bike when I was young and now still with a bicycle in the garage waiting to go out again. So that relates me to much younger age where life was much more carefree and this world was not nearly as complex and broken as we see it is now. And that makes me feel something wonderful even though it is harkening back to a past. The scooter part to me is like a bicycle on steroids sometimes. I find riding the motorcycles a different experience.
Being a new rider at 71 is a different kind of adventure. Many might be thinking about retiring their rides at that point. It's inspiring to find examples like yours. Caregiving. I know what that's like. Seems hard to square that reality with memories of youth and being carefree. Going for a ride on the scooter is especially powerful in such times. Take care to take care of yourself Mike. It's hard to help others when you can't help yourself.
Since I started commuting on a scooter I feel my journeys to and from work have a positive impact on mental health. Not sure why but I love riding on two wheels. Great video.
For all the years I was commuting to work I felt the same benefits as you did when I was making the trip on two wheels. I arrived relaxed. And I was energized when I got home. However it worked I'm glad I experienced riding. Now that I'm retired and don't have the daily commute the effects aren't as frequent. But they're still there.
Steve as my "scooter" for now is a four wheel walker for the near future your story lefts me beyond belief. I thank you for that. Your stories mean so much to so many.
Don't let the four-wheeled walker get you down. It's a necessary tool sometimes. I posted a picture of my wife's walker on the Thelonica thread on the Modern Vespa forum. She now has the Vespa of walkers. A huge distance from those typical "I'm an old, decrepit codger walkers!" Take care of yourself. I'll keep reminding you of your future rides.
Two years ago I bought a used PCX 150 scooter. No regrets. Riding it gives me great joy. I'm currently buried in snow but even the thought of riding sustains me.
I used to love winter and snow. Until I started riding. Then it was something I just had to endure. I hope you get some warm weather soon and you can get out on your scooter. The world awaits!
Coursing through the wind on a scooter, a motorcycle, or atop a horse may offer adventure, but nothing quite compares to feeling the raw power of the elements on your face. The exhilarating sensation of wind whipping through your hair and across your skin is a reminder that you are fully alive, connected to the world around you, and free to revel in the beauty of nature's unbridled force.
Hmmmm, I hadn't considered the feel of the elements on my body. How did I miss that? Aside from tiny windscreens I'm exposed to the elements. Helmet and gear insulate me a bit but it's still there -- the wind, the sun, the rain, whatever I encounter. Since I retired and have let my hair grow I can relate to it being whipped around. It's a scary mess from hanging out of the helmet. Thanks for sharing the reminder of the beauty of nature's unbridled force. It definitely does have a therapeutic effect. Something entirely filtered away riding inside a car.
What a lovely video. You’ve a great attitude. I like to view time as a companion who I get on very well with when we’re doing something we both enjoy. Keep riding your Vespa
I've been riding for a little over four years now. I'm 48. I was very late to finding the joy and peace that riding a bike brings. Makes me wonder how I coped with modern life before I rode. I ride to clear my head and blow away negativity. I have never gone out for a ride and not come home refreshed.
I didn't cope so well before I started to ride when I was 52. I thought I was coping well but it was sort of startling how different I was feeling after rides. Stay safe on the road!
I must admit the most enjoyable time I’ve had with ‘the Flash’ (aka red Vespa) has been on country roads by myself. Cruising along looking at places I don’t get time to look at usually. Going to and from work is fun. For many years I have felt like time is slipping away. I have to remind myself to make the most of every moment. Live every moment, not just glide through. I can do this a lot easier when I’m riding.
Despite a Vespa scooter being thought of as an urban vehicle due to it's post-WWII roots, I think it excels on those quiet country roads. And as you say, while riding a scooter you have a chance to see things you might otherwise miss. It's certainly one of the reasons I find a Vespa so attractive. Have fun with your red Vespa!
Riding to me is pure unadulterated escape from the pressures of life and all it complexities. Riding allows us to step away from the real world and be transported to a time and place where we can just be. No matter what you do, when you ride you have to be present. You notice your surroundings and you have to rely on your skills that are often dull from the mundane tasks that often clog our lives. On a bike you have to let all of that go, even if it is just for a short while, which helps me when the world get over complicated. Love your videos.
For you, ride your Vespa is a therapy, for me is to see your videos and obviously ride our Vespa ;-). Always worth the time I spend watching your videos. Thanks Steve.
I thought about you while reading about an electric Vespa conversion kit made by Retrospective in GB. Apparently they have designed kits that are DIY friendly. Not cheap, but very interesting. I love the look of old scooters, but I value reliability just as much. Keep up the good work. I’m enjoying the rides.
I'm not sure how I feel about electric bikes and scooters. They're certainly coming but I wonder if I'll feel different about riding one. I suppose I'll just need to try one out when the opportunity presents itself.
@@ScooterintheSticks I rode the Harley electric motorcycle several years ago and liked it. I would love to try the BMW electric scooter. An electric Vespa seems like heresy but Europe has to deal with the banning of ICE vehicles being banned from cities. I would miss the flutter of the engine while riding. Retrospective does some beautiful restorations of Vespas and Lambrettas as well as the conversions.
Another "thank you," Steve. I think, at least for me, personally, that riding a Vespa always proved to be more relaxing than riding any of the motorcycles I've owned. Riding the bikes always seemed somehow more "aggressive" -- I had to GET somewhere! The bike was big! And fast! And made me such a "Bobby Badass!" How stupid of me! But the Vespa somehow always made me feel closer to the road, more involved in riding, and gave me more time to ponder things, much like you do. Much appreciated...and I'm looking forward to this fall when it looks like I'll be a Vespa owner once again.
I've had to learn to relax while riding motorcycles. The Vespa is so easy that the experience on a motorcycle can feel like work. And that work seemed to transport me mentally to a place not consistent with relaxing. But with time and practice, and the right motorcycle, I can relax. The BMW K75C wasn't relaxing. The Himalayan is. I can see why being a Bobby Badass would get in the way of relaxation! It's nice to find yourself on a Vespa pondering life and the world...
Yet, ANOTHER brilliant video. The resonance in your content fits me so well. I’ve always said, “If ya know, ya know; if ya don’t, ya won’t.” I believe one truly must ride one of our small frame scooters, in order to begin to understand what we mean when we describe the joy these machines bring to our souls. Keep them coming mate. Ride safe. Cheers!
I'm glad you find some value in the videos I share. And you're right, a lot of riders don't appreciate the magic of a small frame scooter. I have a wealth of happy memories riding my 150 Vespa scooters.
Congratulations on such a nice, wise video. With the humble way you say things and the calm perspective you bring forth you say so much. The world would be a far better place if we all stood back a bit and reflected on things. But this horrid whirlpool of a modern mess we live in has got an iron grip on us and does not let us genuinely enjoy ourselves and ponder life. I have been thinking about buying a Vespa for years. I am middle aged and officially turning into a senior (55) in a week. After seeing your video, I might just pull the trigger on buying a Vespa. If only for taking tranquil, recreational rides. God Bless.
Thank you for your kind and supportive words about the video. It's a challenge to step back and consider the grip of which we may personally be a prisoner. It seems far easier to hold on to our beliefs about ourselves, other people, and the world than to let go long enough to consider any folly or misunderstanding. I suppose it's why my entire life I've struggled with absolute ideas and truths offered up by people. While riding began for me as a recreational activity, then a utilitarian commute, the real value of it has been the way it has freed my mind from that iron grip you suggest. Riding has definitely helped my ability to ponder... Congratulations on 55 but I will say you're still a youngster. At 55 I had no limitations physically yet. I got my first Vespa at 51 and it has been a dream since then. Perhaps the best expenditure of money I have ever made. And considering the emotional and spiritual returns, cheap from every angle. Good luck on your own consideration of a scooter. If you do get one, don't skimp on training. The world on two-wheels is different than driving a car or riding a bicycle.
sure does make life better.. I enjoy driving, some of my great thoughts come from riding. A Vespa ride is simple, always moving forward for me. Thank you for sharing this video with us.
My mind works in two ways depending on the event or roads. On local roads I'm totally absorbed by reading the tach, shifting and counter steering on my motorcycles or counter steering on the scooters to get my best of the curves. On long highway runs I slide into thought of problem solving or a slight daydream state while watching out for hazards at the same time. My beginnings in riding was learning how to dirt race so I guess that has never left me to some extent.
I'm surprised not more people commented as you have. I know riders who are all about the machine and the technique and pay little attention to the world around them. I have no doubt that the demands of dirt racing left an indelible impression. It's one approach to riding but not mine by any stretch. It's cool we can all choose our own path. Thanks for taking the time to comment. I always appreciate reading what you have to say.
Oh sure, I was doing fine with ignoring all that stuff in my head, and then you post this. ;-) "Two wheel therapy" always helps. Nice video, as always.
@@ScooterintheSticks We are currently in the desert, about 1,400 miles away from home. We brought the bikes, but it has been cooler, wetter, and windier than normal here in the Phoenix area. Yes, I know: you ride through all that, but this island boy is a bit of a candy-ass these days. ;-)
@@ScooterintheSticks Houses are going up everywhere in this area at an incredible rate. While Lake Powell and Lake Mead continue to drop. I think it's a valid concern.
Good evening Steve, Thankyou for posting your excellent videos. They are so uplifting and enjoyable! I’m a young late 60’s and find riding and exploring the beautiful the Welsh Valleys such a joy on my scooter. There’s nothing quite like the freedom of experiencing the sounds, vistas, smells and marvellous new horizons that exploring can bring. Hope you get chance to post many more journeys and adventures. Kindest regards Bri
Your experiences parallel my own. They make riding a scooter a joy. I'm working on the next video already though the weather isn't really conducive to what I want to do.
Great video Steve. I am of a similar season of my life, approaching retirement. I have ridden motorcycles for decades but just purchased a Himalayan a few months ago and am anxious to get it out as soon as the weather allows. Riding is truly therapeutic for me just as you describe in this video. I've also played this with my eyes closed, just listening to your voice and message. You have a gift. What is the piano piece playing through this video? Is it yours or from something else. It is beautiful and calming by itself also. Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing it with all of us.
Thanks for the kind words about the video. The weather will soon be warm and allow for a more reliable schedule of therapy on the Himalayan. I'm looking forward to it myself. Regarding the music... Until this video I had been using TH-cam's free audio library. They have some good stuff but there's not a lot that suits me. I enjoy trying to match the mood and feel of a message to music and decided to purchase a subscription to Artlist. So this video is the first to use something from that service. The music is titled "Light Through the Branches" by Ben Winwood. I wish I could play the piano like that. Or any instrument for that matter...
@@ScooterintheSticks Steve, thanks for replying back to me and all the other viewers. It is very thoughtful and intentional and it says much about your personality and what you are conveying to us viewers. Cheers to you and our shared therapeutic pursuits. I will return back to this video often when I need a "recharge". Thank you!
Riding means my car is not getting more miles and I have reserved parking at work and lots less cost for fuel. It’s a personal freedom, and a slice of life just ‘my way’, even if it’s only for a few minutes
Before retirement my Vespa scooter was my near daily ride to work. Like you, my car gathered far fewer miles and I saved a lot on fuel. I suppose that's why my 2011 Honda Fit only has 42K miles on it. And I can definitely understand the idea of a slice of life done my way. That ride to work, and back home again, was amazing in how it could transform my perspective and attitude.
I really like your videos. I am thinking about selling my motorcycle to buy a Vespa. As I am getting older I am finding my motorcycle too cumbersome for me nowadays. My motorcycle is a Honda shadow 750 Aero 2006. My wife and I ride 2 up. I have never driven a Vespa. But I am considering the primavera 150 model. Do you think it will be enough power for us riding 2 up? Thanks Mike
I know people who ride two up on their scooters. Some on Yamaha Vino 125 scooters and others on Vespa GTS300s. I've ridden my wife on the back of my GTS but I don't like riding two up. On anything. It just defeats the feeling of flying I love so much when there's another person on the back. But that's just me. A lot depends on how far you are going to ride and how much weight the two of you are putting onto the Vespa. With a Primavera 150, similar to the Vespa LX150 I had, my wife and I added about 350 pounds to the scooter. We could ride along at 45 mph but don't think it will be anything like riding two up on a 750. It would seem strictly backroad kind of stuff. And then, being older, for pretty short rides. Sorry I can't provide anything more definitive than that. You might want to check ModernVespa.com. It's a very active forum and will have people who can comment on two up riding.
I've ridden my Vespa to appointments like that as well. A ride couldn't fix what I wasn't even aware of. But it does have power to assist me in peering into the mirror...
What ahout a yamaha zuma would ya consider one of those i know there only 125 cc and they have some knobby tires for the fire roads in mid pa there 🤔 or the trails soft gravel just a thought , the honda navi seems like a good twist and go to , but yes deffinly a vespa good choice
I have no doubt that the Yamaha Zuma could navigate the fire roads here in Central Pennsylvania. Personally though, I don't like the appearance of the Zuma. Or the Navi. But each of us has our own tastes for the look of machines. I have mine. And you'll have yours. Whatever we choose, the important part is getting out and riding!
Your video skills are really improving 😊 what a lovely meditation on the Vespa My theory is that we feel good because we get into a flow state (see Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi) 🤓
Thanks for your comments about my video skills. I can find myself in a state of flow while making them. I've not read Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi but have read about flow from other sources. And while riding I definitely find myself in a flow state. Thanks for sharing. I'll take a closer look at Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi.
Whenever I go for a ride on my scooter, even just run an errand I realize that I feel better… not even knowing I needed it.
Exactly. It's why I love running any kind of errand on the scooter. I feel better and get things done!
You articulate your thoughts so well and your ability to weave it into your videos is nothing short of amazing. Every video, you're getting better and better. I really enjoyed this video. Well done, Steve.
Thanks for your kind words Mr. Kraken.
Making videos has turned out to be a good creative exercise for me. And even better, I enjoy making them. I'll enjoy it even more when it's not freezing outside while I'm riding.
Good morning Mr. Williams. It's so true how riding down a back road on your scooter can give such a sense of relaxation. It gets you temporarily away from everyday stress. At 65 I have suddenly found myself riding a Vespa GTV 300. Wish I had found it at 25.
I'm with you -- I wish I had found riding at 25 too. I sometimes daydream how might life might be different if I had.
Have fun on your GTV while you can. So many roads and places still left to explore!
At 60 I have just discovered the magic and life-affirming joy of riding a Vespa 125. Life just got so much better. With you Steve and Paul wholeheartedly.
Keeping your mind clear of distractions and focused on your surroundings combined with the slight adrenaline rush of danger eased by letting your body enjoy the experience is what makes the ride so enjoyable for me.
Yes, I can relate to your experience. I hadn't thought about the adrenaline rush but it's there. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Brilliant mate.
Absolutely brilliant.
Ride safe.
Cheers!
Hello Steve, Mike here again. Unlike many I am a new rider at 71 years. I took the Vespa out today because it's the Vespa's turn to get out. I was thinking about this scootering around today over to the lake and then over to the farm. .. my escape to the outside is much more empirically verifiable and phenomenal as my caregiving continuous for the wife,.. that is most of my life is spent inside as required. I was connecting this with riding my bike when I was young and now still with a bicycle in the garage waiting to go out again. So that relates me to much younger age where life was much more carefree and this world was not nearly as complex and broken as we see it is now. And that makes me feel something wonderful even though it is harkening back to a past. The scooter part to me is like a bicycle on steroids sometimes. I find riding the motorcycles a different experience.
Being a new rider at 71 is a different kind of adventure. Many might be thinking about retiring their rides at that point. It's inspiring to find examples like yours.
Caregiving. I know what that's like. Seems hard to square that reality with memories of youth and being carefree. Going for a ride on the scooter is especially powerful in such times.
Take care to take care of yourself Mike. It's hard to help others when you can't help yourself.
Since I started commuting on a scooter I feel my journeys to and from work have a positive impact on mental health. Not sure why but I love riding on two wheels. Great video.
For all the years I was commuting to work I felt the same benefits as you did when I was making the trip on two wheels. I arrived relaxed. And I was energized when I got home.
However it worked I'm glad I experienced riding. Now that I'm retired and don't have the daily commute the effects aren't as frequent. But they're still there.
Steve as my "scooter" for now is a four wheel walker for the near future your story lefts me beyond belief. I thank you for that. Your stories mean so much to so many.
Don't let the four-wheeled walker get you down. It's a necessary tool sometimes. I posted a picture of my wife's walker on the Thelonica thread on the Modern Vespa forum. She now has the Vespa of walkers. A huge distance from those typical "I'm an old, decrepit codger walkers!"
Take care of yourself. I'll keep reminding you of your future rides.
Two years ago I bought a used PCX 150 scooter. No regrets. Riding it gives me great joy. I'm currently buried in snow but even the thought of riding sustains me.
I used to love winter and snow. Until I started riding. Then it was something I just had to endure.
I hope you get some warm weather soon and you can get out on your scooter. The world awaits!
Coursing through the wind on a scooter, a motorcycle, or atop a horse may offer adventure, but nothing quite compares to feeling the raw power of the elements on your face. The exhilarating sensation of wind whipping through your hair and across your skin is a reminder that you are fully alive, connected to the world around you, and free to revel in the beauty of nature's unbridled force.
Hmmmm, I hadn't considered the feel of the elements on my body. How did I miss that?
Aside from tiny windscreens I'm exposed to the elements. Helmet and gear insulate me a bit but it's still there -- the wind, the sun, the rain, whatever I encounter. Since I retired and have let my hair grow I can relate to it being whipped around. It's a scary mess from hanging out of the helmet.
Thanks for sharing the reminder of the beauty of nature's unbridled force. It definitely does have a therapeutic effect. Something entirely filtered away riding inside a car.
What a lovely video. You’ve a great attitude. I like to view time as a companion who I get on very well with when we’re doing something we both enjoy. Keep riding your Vespa
Time as a companion. I've never thought about it that way. Thanks for the idea.
Sometimes I feel like I'm getting an episode of Sunday with Charles Kuralt.
❤️
That's a high bar. Charles Kuralt was a master storyteller, and story finder. I can only hope for a weak imitation...
I've been riding for a little over four years now. I'm 48. I was very late to finding the joy and peace that riding a bike brings.
Makes me wonder how I coped with modern life before I rode.
I ride to clear my head and blow away negativity.
I have never gone out for a ride and not come home refreshed.
I didn't cope so well before I started to ride when I was 52. I thought I was coping well but it was sort of startling how different I was feeling after rides.
Stay safe on the road!
I must admit the most enjoyable time I’ve had with ‘the Flash’ (aka red Vespa) has been on country roads by myself. Cruising along looking at places I don’t get time to look at usually. Going to and from work is fun. For many years I have felt like time is slipping away. I have to remind myself to make the most of every moment. Live every moment, not just glide through. I can do this a lot easier when I’m riding.
Despite a Vespa scooter being thought of as an urban vehicle due to it's post-WWII roots, I think it excels on those quiet country roads. And as you say, while riding a scooter you have a chance to see things you might otherwise miss. It's certainly one of the reasons I find a Vespa so attractive.
Have fun with your red Vespa!
Riding to me is pure unadulterated escape from the pressures of life and all it complexities. Riding allows us to step away from the real world and be transported to a time and place where we can just be. No matter what you do, when you ride you have to be present. You notice your surroundings and you have to rely on your skills that are often dull from the mundane tasks that often clog our lives. On a bike you have to let all of that go, even if it is just for a short while, which helps me when the world get over complicated. Love your videos.
Well said. You echo my thoughts and beliefs regarding riding. Thanks for sharing.
Riding takes one out of the mess and into the moment. Good to see the ET4 getting some exercise! Thanks for the video, as always.
Thanks for watching! The ET4 is fun to ride.
For you, ride your Vespa is a therapy, for me is to see your videos and obviously ride our Vespa ;-).
Always worth the time I spend watching your videos. Thanks Steve.
I appreciate your kind words about my videos.
Warm weather tomorrow here. That calls for a ride!
I thought about you while reading about an electric Vespa conversion kit made by Retrospective in GB. Apparently they have designed kits that are DIY friendly. Not cheap, but very interesting. I love the look of old scooters, but I value reliability just as much. Keep up the good work. I’m enjoying the rides.
I'm not sure how I feel about electric bikes and scooters. They're certainly coming but I wonder if I'll feel different about riding one. I suppose I'll just need to try one out when the opportunity presents itself.
@@ScooterintheSticks I rode the Harley electric motorcycle several years ago and liked it. I would love to try the BMW electric scooter. An electric Vespa seems like heresy but Europe has to deal with the banning of ICE vehicles being banned from cities. I would miss the flutter of the engine while riding. Retrospective does some beautiful restorations of Vespas and Lambrettas as well as the conversions.
I always enjoy every installment of Scooter in the Sticks. Thanks so much for this one Steve, you allow me a brief vicarious glimpse of relaxation.
Glad you enjoyed it. I need another ride to relax from thinking about the next video!!
Another "thank you," Steve. I think, at least for me, personally, that riding a Vespa always proved to be more relaxing than riding any of the motorcycles I've owned. Riding the bikes always seemed somehow more "aggressive" -- I had to GET somewhere! The bike was big! And fast! And made me such a "Bobby Badass!" How stupid of me! But the Vespa somehow always made me feel closer to the road, more involved in riding, and gave me more time to ponder things, much like you do. Much appreciated...and I'm looking forward to this fall when it looks like I'll be a Vespa owner once again.
I've had to learn to relax while riding motorcycles. The Vespa is so easy that the experience on a motorcycle can feel like work. And that work seemed to transport me mentally to a place not consistent with relaxing. But with time and practice, and the right motorcycle, I can relax. The BMW K75C wasn't relaxing. The Himalayan is.
I can see why being a Bobby Badass would get in the way of relaxation! It's nice to find yourself on a Vespa pondering life and the world...
Yet, ANOTHER brilliant video.
The resonance in your content fits me so well.
I’ve always said, “If ya know, ya know; if ya don’t, ya won’t.”
I believe one truly must ride one of our small frame scooters, in order to begin to understand what we mean when we describe the joy these machines bring to our souls.
Keep them coming mate.
Ride safe.
Cheers!
I'm glad you find some value in the videos I share. And you're right, a lot of riders don't appreciate the magic of a small frame scooter. I have a wealth of happy memories riding my 150 Vespa scooters.
I love everything about this video. I feel the same way about riding and listening to this re-ignites the passion.
For those of us that ride it is a gift to find a passion in our lives.
Congratulations on such a nice, wise video. With the humble way you say things and the calm perspective you bring forth you say so much. The world would be a far better place if we all stood back a bit and reflected on things. But this horrid whirlpool of a modern mess we live in has got an iron grip on us and does not let us genuinely enjoy ourselves and ponder life. I have been thinking about buying a Vespa for years. I am middle aged and officially turning into a senior (55) in a week. After seeing your video, I might just pull the trigger on buying a Vespa. If only for taking tranquil, recreational rides. God Bless.
Thank you for your kind and supportive words about the video.
It's a challenge to step back and consider the grip of which we may personally be a prisoner. It seems far easier to hold on to our beliefs about ourselves, other people, and the world than to let go long enough to consider any folly or misunderstanding. I suppose it's why my entire life I've struggled with absolute ideas and truths offered up by people.
While riding began for me as a recreational activity, then a utilitarian commute, the real value of it has been the way it has freed my mind from that iron grip you suggest. Riding has definitely helped my ability to ponder...
Congratulations on 55 but I will say you're still a youngster. At 55 I had no limitations physically yet. I got my first Vespa at 51 and it has been a dream since then. Perhaps the best expenditure of money I have ever made. And considering the emotional and spiritual returns, cheap from every angle.
Good luck on your own consideration of a scooter. If you do get one, don't skimp on training. The world on two-wheels is different than driving a car or riding a bicycle.
sure does make life better.. I enjoy driving, some of my great thoughts come from riding. A Vespa ride is simple, always moving forward for me. Thank you for sharing this video with us.
Well said!
Well said! A scooter ride makes life richer.
My mind works in two ways depending on the event or roads. On local roads I'm totally absorbed by reading the tach, shifting and counter steering on my motorcycles or counter steering on the scooters to get my best of the curves. On long highway runs I slide into thought of problem solving or a slight daydream state while watching out for hazards at the same time. My beginnings in riding was learning how to dirt race so I guess that has never left me to some extent.
I'm surprised not more people commented as you have. I know riders who are all about the machine and the technique and pay little attention to the world around them. I have no doubt that the demands of dirt racing left an indelible impression. It's one approach to riding but not mine by any stretch.
It's cool we can all choose our own path.
Thanks for taking the time to comment. I always appreciate reading what you have to say.
Oh sure, I was doing fine with ignoring all that stuff in my head, and then you post this. ;-) "Two wheel therapy" always helps. Nice video, as always.
It's amazing what gets in my head. And "two wheel therapy" is almost always the best medicine.
I hope all is going well in your neck of the woods.
@@ScooterintheSticks We are currently in the desert, about 1,400 miles away from home. We brought the bikes, but it has been cooler, wetter, and windier than normal here in the Phoenix area. Yes, I know: you ride through all that, but this island boy is a bit of a candy-ass these days. ;-)
@@captainjim605 Well, at least the Phoenix area is getting some moisture. From what I read, calamity awaits the southwest in regard to water...
@@ScooterintheSticks Houses are going up everywhere in this area at an incredible rate. While Lake Powell and Lake Mead continue to drop. I think it's a valid concern.
Good evening Steve,
Thankyou for posting your excellent videos. They are so uplifting and enjoyable!
I’m a young late 60’s and find riding and exploring the beautiful the Welsh Valleys such a joy on my scooter. There’s nothing quite like the freedom of experiencing the sounds, vistas, smells and marvellous new horizons that exploring can bring.
Hope you get chance to post many more journeys and adventures.
Kindest regards
Bri
Your experiences parallel my own. They make riding a scooter a joy.
I'm working on the next video already though the weather isn't really conducive to what I want to do.
What a beautiful video. Really enjoyed listening to your reflections and thoughts.
Glad you enjoyed it! I'm looking forward to more rides on the ET4. It's a fine machine.
Just what I needed. Thanks, Steve!
Nothing like a ride Andy!
I agree, totally at ease when riding the vespa..
That's how I feel.
Great video Steve. I am of a similar season of my life, approaching retirement. I have ridden motorcycles for decades but just purchased a Himalayan a few months ago and am anxious to get it out as soon as the weather allows. Riding is truly therapeutic for me just as you describe in this video. I've also played this with my eyes closed, just listening to your voice and message. You have a gift. What is the piano piece playing through this video? Is it yours or from something else. It is beautiful and calming by itself also. Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing it with all of us.
Thanks for the kind words about the video.
The weather will soon be warm and allow for a more reliable schedule of therapy on the Himalayan. I'm looking forward to it myself.
Regarding the music... Until this video I had been using TH-cam's free audio library. They have some good stuff but there's not a lot that suits me. I enjoy trying to match the mood and feel of a message to music and decided to purchase a subscription to Artlist. So this video is the first to use something from that service.
The music is titled "Light Through the Branches" by Ben Winwood. I wish I could play the piano like that. Or any instrument for that matter...
@@ScooterintheSticks Steve, thanks for replying back to me and all the other viewers. It is very thoughtful and intentional and it says much about your personality and what you are conveying to us viewers. Cheers to you and our shared therapeutic pursuits. I will return back to this video often when I need a "recharge". Thank you!
Eloquently put there Steve. Glad I caught this one.
Thank you.
You are a true Vespa philosopher!! ...however, what model of Vespa are you riding in this video? It looks amazing but also not a newest one...
Perhaps my fascination with modern Vespa scooters is shining through.
In the video I’m riding a 2005 Vespa ET4, a 150 scooter.
@@ScooterintheSticks Very nice model indeed
Thank you!
You're welcome!
Wow vespa et4, me been riding my one and only ride vespa et4 150 for 20 years now.. cheers😎
The ET4 is an elegant scooter. I'm glad I have one in the garage.
I found your blog Steve, thanks.
I’ve been blogging for a long time. It’s slowed a bit as I’ve started making videos for TH-cam.
@@ScooterintheSticksmight I ask for the directions to your blog? Cheers mate! Thank you for what you provide here. Ride safe.
Well done, very well done...
Thank you for the kind words.
Riding means my car is not getting more miles and I have reserved parking at work and lots less cost for fuel. It’s a personal freedom, and a slice of life just ‘my way’, even if it’s only for a few minutes
Before retirement my Vespa scooter was my near daily ride to work. Like you, my car gathered far fewer miles and I saved a lot on fuel. I suppose that's why my 2011 Honda Fit only has 42K miles on it.
And I can definitely understand the idea of a slice of life done my way. That ride to work, and back home again, was amazing in how it could transform my perspective and attitude.
i'm in Vietnam, i respect your opinion!
Thank you for your kind comment.
I really like your videos. I am thinking about selling my motorcycle to buy a Vespa. As I am getting older I am finding my motorcycle too cumbersome for me nowadays. My motorcycle is a Honda shadow 750 Aero 2006. My wife and I ride 2 up. I have never driven a Vespa. But I am considering the primavera 150 model. Do you think it will be enough power for us riding 2 up? Thanks Mike
I know people who ride two up on their scooters. Some on Yamaha Vino 125 scooters and others on Vespa GTS300s. I've ridden my wife on the back of my GTS but I don't like riding two up. On anything. It just defeats the feeling of flying I love so much when there's another person on the back. But that's just me.
A lot depends on how far you are going to ride and how much weight the two of you are putting onto the Vespa. With a Primavera 150, similar to the Vespa LX150 I had, my wife and I added about 350 pounds to the scooter. We could ride along at 45 mph but don't think it will be anything like riding two up on a 750. It would seem strictly backroad kind of stuff. And then, being older, for pretty short rides.
Sorry I can't provide anything more definitive than that. You might want to check ModernVespa.com. It's a very active forum and will have people who can comment on two up riding.
A scooter is a type of motorcycle like a cruiser, dual sport, dirt bike, ect.
I agree.
I take my bike to my therapist office. Sometimes one needs more than wind therapy to deal with mental issues.
I've ridden my Vespa to appointments like that as well. A ride couldn't fix what I wasn't even aware of. But it does have power to assist me in peering into the mirror...
A reflective video by a likeable fellow. ✌️
Thank you for your kinds words.
What ahout a yamaha zuma would ya consider one of those i know there only 125 cc and they have some knobby tires for the fire roads in mid pa there 🤔 or the trails soft gravel just a thought , the honda navi seems like a good twist and go to , but yes deffinly a vespa good choice
I have no doubt that the Yamaha Zuma could navigate the fire roads here in Central Pennsylvania. Personally though, I don't like the appearance of the Zuma. Or the Navi. But each of us has our own tastes for the look of machines. I have mine. And you'll have yours.
Whatever we choose, the important part is getting out and riding!
@ScooterintheSticks good way to look at it 🤙🤙
Your video skills are really improving 😊 what a lovely meditation on the Vespa
My theory is that we feel good because we get into a flow state (see Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi) 🤓
Thanks for your comments about my video skills. I can find myself in a state of flow while making them. I've not read Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi but have read about flow from other sources. And while riding I definitely find myself in a flow state.
Thanks for sharing. I'll take a closer look at Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi.
I see you own a Vespa and live in the C-PA area; Ever want to go for a Scoot Ride, let me know.
Where are you located?
Yes yes yes it does
It sure does.