Profile

This sleek showroom is the most successful Vespa dealer in the United States, drawing devoted riders and curious passerby with its eye-catching rows of candy-colored scooters. Opened in 2002, the spacious store attracts collectors, students, and fed-up commuters searching for a stylish, less expensive city ride (clerks claim to spend around $40 a month on gas, trumping the unlimited MetroCard). Two lines of scooters in six gleaming shades form a catwalk-like central aisle, including the LX 150, which reaches 60 to 65 mph and starts at $4,500, and the GTS 250, which starts at $6,200 and can hit 85 mph. Scooter gear hangs on mounted wall racks, like top cases, luggage racks, and chrome kits, while accessories are shelved near the register, featuring Vanson leather jackets; helmets from Z1R, Nolan, and Piaggio; Spy Optic’s polarized sunglasses; and riding gloves ranging from hardcore skeleton designs to hot-pink styles. Fans of the company’s iconic design can browse an assortment of Vespa tees, including mini tot-sized versions for future riders, reading “V is for Vespa” and “L is for Lambretta.” — Lauren Murrow

Vespa offers full-service repairs from its body shop and paint facility in Brooklyn, with vehicle drop-off and pick-up at the Soho location. Call ahead to assess collision damage or request parts.