The Wheelworks Vesparados had intended to summit Marys Peak in the Coast Range today, but the road was closed. Plan “B” was a stop at The Woodsman in Philomath.

Went on the first Wheelworks scooter club ride (they hope to have them every other Sunday). Bill and Suzy rode a fine red GTS 250. It was a great route to the south of Eugene, winding past a lot of panting bike riders and a few wild turkeys. Everyone smiles when they see a Vespa. I topped the tank off on Monday and recorded an astounding 104.6 mpg. Vespas get great gas mileage. More DavazNet Vespa links | Wheeworks Eugene on Facebook

Contact the insurance company to learn that scooters aren’t covered for towing. Call Ray’s Towing to arrange for the $75 tow downtown to get the tire replaced. Learn that it might be wise to get AAA Premier in case it happens again. Go back downtown to pick it up Pay $112.74 for a new tire with installation.

I’ve always wondered what would happen if I got a flat tire on the scooter. Road repair isn’t simple or convenient. Since Wheelworks is closed on Sunday, I had to wait until Monday to arrange to get the Vespa flat fixed.

Vespa has a flat rear tire. Bummed.

Vespas in Paris, January 2007.