Your MODERN Vespa uses a thick v-shaped, reinforced, toothed belt to transmit power from the engine to the rear wheel. It takes more than a belt to get your Vespa scooting down the road though. A set of pulleys and several gears are also involved. As the miles accumulate the belt wears and becomes thinner. What is most affected is "top speed". Gradually the top speed becomes lower and lower. In a city environment you may think that losing a few MPH off your top speed is a non-issue, but a worn belt means more than losing a few miles per hour.
New belts are any where from 20.5mm, for the GT200, to 22.5mm for the LX150. Vespa recommends replacing belts after only 1 to 2 millimeters of wear. I know what you're thinking... "replace the belt after 1mm?!!!" Well the good news is, these belts are EXTREMELY hard wearing - in fact these belts are so tough Vespa expects them to take between 7450 and 9000 miles to scrub off 1 to 2mm's, depending on the motor size. In the real world (San Francisco), belts live a tough life; steep hills, stop signs and stop lights all conspire to shorten the life of your drive belt. Riding style also is a factor in belt longevity.
So, how long does the drive belt REALLY last? Well, there is no correct answer, but I highly recommend getting the belt inspected if your Vespa has 5000 miles or more on the ORIGINAL belt. A visual inspection is not enough as the belt should be removed, measured to ensure it is still within wear limits and exhibits no signs of cracking. Worn belts can leave you stranded as they usually disintegrate when they "go" and naturally there is no warning sign... other than the lower top speed.
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