[scootnwinn]

Hank the bummer part is the only Aprilia dealer is about 400 miles away...

I think when people think 2 stroke the only reference some have are highly tuned motocross bikes. I can say for certain Hank, based on 3 years in a motorcycle shop, that in the dirtbikes at least, 4 strokes last much longer, kind of. Let me explain. Basically a top end (new piston and a boring) are considered normal maintenance. we all know that refreshing a top end on a 2-stroke is a simple job however. Overall though with care and attention to detail a 2 stroke can be reliable. I'm sure a stock scooter isn't tuned like a dirtbike nor is it generally driven in a similar manner in the same harsh conditions so though a top-end may be needed someday it could be a long way off. Additionally adding water cooling makes a huge difference in longevity... So there you go conjecture-less opinion