Thinking of buying a 2000 Pegaso 650. Parts/service/reliability?

[brain21]

I am going to be taking the MSF course next month. In the meantime been looking at a lot of bikes w/ advice from a couple of friend riders. I need something used, cheap, etc. for a first bike. I found a 2000 Aprilia Pegaso that I really like, "well maintained" 15k miles for $2000.

My questions are regarding reliability, getting parts (either myself or a service shop), and getting service.

I live just west of Atlanta, Ga. When I looked for Aprilia dealers in Ga. I found 1 scooter store in Atlanta, 1 dealership an hour and a half away, and another dealership about 4 hours away, and thats it.

Would I be able to get engine work done at a BMW motorcycle dealership? What about other components for repair? A Ducati or BMW dealer? If I take it to an independent mechanic, how easy or difficult will it be for him to get parts?

[robg]

Welcome mate. I just had to google MSF course. A bit like our CBT but not compulsory? If you do go for the Peg, I'm sure you'll love it. So easy to ride, and great in almost any situation.
As for parts and service, i'll leave that to some of the guys from your side of the pond to advise you in more detail. As you may have discovered the Rotax engine does share some parts with the Peg, so usually a good independent BMW parts supplier is the way to go, as Aprilia parts can be pricey. As for the work itself, I would guess that a BMW or Aprilia franchise would be the most costly, so a local dealer would be better. But all said and done, it's a little Italian single, so might be time to start getting your hands dirty.

[stisma]

For a cheap/reliable/easy to service/fined parts Pegaso doesn't fit the bill.
Keep in mind that it hasn't been imported in the US since 2000-01.
Number of Aprilia dealers is shrinking.
Parts availability is ..... well you have to wait for it.
Pegaso has issues, culprits and troubles that are and not common to the bike industry.
You have to work on it, troubleshoot and figure out. If this is done by the shop..... think major $$$$$$.
Carbs are horrible to say the best, unless you ride it weekly. (So easy for that "gum" to develop and
clog the carbs) And removing the carbs is a major surgery.

So for the "cheap" and reliable in the category (dual purpose/adventure) bike,
go with SV650 or DR400E or XR650 or DR650..... depends on the intended use.
V-Strom's are...... good, comfy, usable machines. (SV650).

With all said, my garage now parks 2 (two) Pegaso bikes.
Just like most italian bikes, you have to love 'em.

[Yukon]

Own a 1999 model.
Agree with Stisma on all his observations.
For 13 years I have had a absolute ball riding the Peg "So much fun in a country like Australia"
Last 2 years have suffered a number off mechanicals, parts take too long to get.
This bike was ahead of its time in style and spec ."Take a look at the late 2000 model Honda 650cc adventure bike. "pure style copy"
Despite the issues I will continue to own this Italian single Classic.
Love em !

[tommymerle]

I own a 2000 Peg and enjoy the heck out of it. I'm handy with a wrench but no expert. So, with a manual I am doing the work myself with 0 problems. I recommend to buy it, ride it and then sell it if you don't like it. If you find you like motorcycling this won't be your last bike.