Author Topic: 2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????  (Read 3161 times)

flavioguy

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2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????
« on: July 31, 2015, 04:04:34 PM »
Someone local is selling a 2008 grand vista for $2400.  It's the 2nd owner and has 630 miles on it.  I'm concerned that all that sitting around has damaged the carb and more.

What's your take?

Not to muddy the waters.  I was resistant to even consider this scoot because in May 2016 we are planning to RV for awhile and I want to haul a scoot around as 2ndary transportation.  My concern that a carbureted vehicle can have float problems, etc. when it's sitting on the back of the RV.  Am I correct in my concern?
« Last Edit: July 31, 2015, 04:54:36 PM by flavioguy »

ScooterLar

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Re: 2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????
« Reply #1 on: July 31, 2015, 05:04:51 PM »
Rather than speculating about whether the carb could be damaged from sitting, I would start her up cold to see if she starts and whether the choke/bystarter works, see how well she idles and how she runs once warmed up. If everything checks out, then no need to worry about the carb. If the bike doesn't start, idles rough or runs rough when warmed up, then at a minimum, the carb will need to be thoroughly cleaned.

I bought my 2009 GV last year with 87 original miles on her for $1,500. The bike sat for several years and stalled when I would slow to a stop. It needed to have the carb cleaned. I had to clean the carb at least 3 times before all was good. No problems since.

Personally, I don't think it matters if the bike is fuel injected or carbureted if you plan on hauling her around. I haul both types of bikes on trailers and on my Versahaul and I've never had a problem.  The most important thing is to stabilize the gas if you aren't going to use it for more than a few weeks.

I took the liberty of looking up that year GV on KBB and it shows that Dealer Retail is $2,005 and trade-in value is $1,330. IMO, $2,400 is  way too much for this bike. I think $1,500-$1,800 is more than fair for this bike provided there's no body damage and all the mechanicals work as they are supposed to.
« Last Edit: July 31, 2015, 05:35:01 PM by ScooterLar »
2005 Grand Vista
2006 Vespa LX 150
2009 Grand Vista
2006 People 250
2013 Like 200
2013 Like 200 LX
2012 Genuine Buddy 170i
2009 Genuine Buddy 125

flavioguy

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Re: 2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????
« Reply #2 on: August 01, 2015, 04:13:26 AM »
Thanks ScooterLar.

Could you give me your physical dimensions?  I keep reading that this scoot is tight for even average dimensioned people.  I'm 5'8" with a 32 inseam.

ScooterLar

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Re: 2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????
« Reply #3 on: August 01, 2015, 11:48:38 AM »
I'm also 5'8" but with a 30 inch inseam. If you do get the bike, I suggest that you remove the backrest. It'll make it a lot more comfortable for you. Best of luck!
2005 Grand Vista
2006 Vespa LX 150
2009 Grand Vista
2006 People 250
2013 Like 200
2013 Like 200 LX
2012 Genuine Buddy 170i
2009 Genuine Buddy 125

ScooterWolf

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Re: 2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????
« Reply #4 on: August 01, 2015, 01:48:37 PM »
So wanted to get a Grandvista, but couldn't find any for sale in my area. If you can get it for that price, that milage and get to work, I'd say go for it.
I'm kicking the ground, on the outside looking in.

-Wolf

flavioguy

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Re: 2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????
« Reply #5 on: August 01, 2015, 02:43:05 PM »
Thanks ScooterLar and ScooterWolf.  I guess will see if it fits me.....

Also Thanks to ScooterLar, I told her the most I'd pay is $1800.....she agreed.

Stay tuned......

flavioguy

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Re: 2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????
« Reply #6 on: August 04, 2015, 02:22:50 PM »
I decided to pass on the scoot.  I did see it in person recently and found that it had been dropped. 
The left belt case needed to be replaced, there was some cosmetic damage and I found the fuel filler door open (not latched closed).  Just too much neglect (the house didn't fair much better either).

It just felt wrong. 

Thanks all for the input!!

ScooterLar

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Re: 2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????
« Reply #7 on: August 04, 2015, 04:33:53 PM »
You gotta listen to your gut. You were smart to pass on it. Good luck with your search!
2005 Grand Vista
2006 Vespa LX 150
2009 Grand Vista
2006 People 250
2013 Like 200
2013 Like 200 LX
2012 Genuine Buddy 170i
2009 Genuine Buddy 125

Rudolf

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Re: 2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????
« Reply #8 on: August 19, 2015, 08:32:57 AM »
Careful to avoid a head on collision while riding the Grandvista/Grand Dink. The frame of this model is weak, so in a crash, the front-end will fold on your legs, crushing them.
« Last Edit: August 19, 2015, 08:38:11 AM by Rudolf »

RileyTN

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Re: 2008 Grand Vista - should I buy?????
« Reply #9 on: September 11, 2015, 02:48:58 AM »
Flavioguy,
I am in the market for a GV too.  Would you mind telling me the city in which you encountered the 2008 you mentioned?  What color was it?  I have come across one on Craigslist that could be this one, I'm not nearby and have not been able to see it yet. 

Thanks

Dave

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