Time for reflection
The run up to Kelso gave Stan the first chance of a decent rideout this year and here’s his update on some GTS products we’ve had on test for a while.
SIP bar end mirrors for modern Vespa
Because I’ve spent most of my life riding classics, bar end mirrors haven’t really been an option so I’ve largely dismissed them as a gimmick. However, as regular readers may recall, I had an off on my GTS last year and one of the casualties was my mirror. Unfortunate as that was, it did coincide with SIP launching its own range of Pordoi bar end mirrors for modern Vespas and when offered a pair to test it would have been rude not to accept.
CNC milled from aluminium the mirrors are available in both anodised and chrome finish. The mirror head is fully adjustable and in the accompanying press release SIP claimed that the solid fastening meant a clearer view due to decreased vibration.
Fitment was easy, one screw at each end of the bar to remove the weight and the same again to fit. Because I’m a neat freak I closed a gap between the LH mirror and the twist grip with an O ring but that’s personal preference. Removing the standard mirrors does leave two unsightly holes in the headset top but there are various remedies for this. Because I’m tight I opted for some bolt-in fillers that came from a well-known Far East discount website.
I have to admit that the difference in visibility is astonishing, in fact it took a little getting used to. I’m well over 6ft tall and the mirrors clear my elbows without any issues at all. I had been concerned that the difference in weight might affect vibration when riding, or worse still bring back some of the low-speed judder felt on early GTS machines. I need not have worried, the weight difference is minimal (Standard weights 291g each side, mirrors 274g) and appears to have no effect on handling or feel through the bars. If you disagree there are bar end weights available from SIP.
The only downside is that I do tend to catch the LH mirror when manoeuvring the scooter off the stand, but resetting it is a small price to pay for the difference in visibility. Even SIP’s claim of a clearer image due to reduced vibration is also released in practice. I just have to avoid dropping the scoot again…
The mirrors come in a variety of finishes with prices ranging from £32.60 to £42.84, and don’t forget the separate mounting kit priced at £5.59 to £8.34 depending on finish.