A Beginner's Guide to Scooters

Scooters are attracting considerable attention these days. Just ask any scooterist on the road today how many times they've been approached about their scoot. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation out there. This beginner's guide answers many of the common questions.

How fast will it go?
This really depends on the engine size of the scooter. By design, some scooters do not go over 35 mph. However, scoots with big engines can go well over 80 mph and easily maintain highway speed. This lack of knowledge causes some drivers to behave erratically around scooters. They will do anything to get around you in the mistaken belief that your scooter is incapable of keeping up with cars.

What is the gas mileage?
This depends upon engine size. Scoots with small engines can get well over 100 mpg. Scoots with bigger engines get around 60-80 mpg. This is the big advantage scooters have over motorcycles.

How much does it cost?
The prices of new reliable scooters start around $ 2200.00 and can run up to $ 10,000. Brands to look for are Kymco, Vespa, SYM, Aprilia, Genuine, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Piaggio.

Why are the scooters down the road much cheaper?
Scooters are popular these days. There is a demand for cheap, inexpensive scooters. Most of these scooters are from mainland China. The materials and quality of these scoots are generally not very good. They tend to break down often, parts are not available, and most scooter shops will not service these. These scooters are best for the mechanically inclined set.

What roads is it legal to ride on?
Again this depends upon state laws and your engine size. Scoots 49cc and below are typically illegal on highways but are fine on 35 mph city streets. Scoots with 50cc and up are typically considered motorcycles and are legally allowed to be on any street in the state. Check your states laws on engine size street laws.

Do I need a license?
This depends upon state laws and generally your scoots engine size. Typically 49cc and below only requires a driver's license. Scoots with 50 cc and higher require a driver's license with a motorcycle endorsement.

Do I have to manually shift it?
Most scooters on the market today are automatic scooters. Just start the engine and twist the throttle to go. Pull on the hand brakes to stop.

How much does it take to fill it?
This depends upon the gas tank size and the price of gasoline. A Vespa ET4 currently costs about $ 5.50 to fill up.

Didn't you really want a motorcycle?
While I respect motorcycles and their riders, most people who ride scooters deliberately chose them over a motorcycle. Scooters have a lower center of mass, weigh less, and have a step through frame. They are considerably easier to handle.

If you drop a motorcycle you will need several people to help pick it up. It is very easy for one person to pick up a scooter.

How much is insurance? Do I need insurance?
This will vary by state and company. Generally it is about $100.00/yr for basic insurance. Check with your state laws to find out if you need insurance. Scoots 50cc and over typically require insurance.

Do you have to wear a helmet?
This is a matter of state laws and personal preference. A scooter is not a toy. It is dangerous.

Can two people ride that?
It depends upon scooter design. Ask the dealership if two people can ride it.

How hard is that to drive?
It is very similar to riding a bicycle. If you have not done much bicycling, I would suggest you take a MSF course before purchasing a scooter.

What is the maintenance?
This depends upon the scooter. There is general annual maintenance such as oil and oil filter changes. Parts do need to be inspected annually. Parts that do wear out are the drive belt, rollers, tires, and brake pads.

What's required for winter storage?
This is something many scooterists forget to do and then have a nice repair bill in the spring. Hook up a battery tender to your battery to keep it charged. Use a fuel stabilizer like Seafoam in your gas tank to keep gunk from forming and clogging your jets. Wash your scoot thoroughly before storing for the winter.

You take that on the HIGHWAY?
If it's legal, that's what it's for. I have to get to work.

How do you like your moped?
Most people don't know the difference between a scooter and a moped. A moped has pedals, a scooter does not.

Where can I learn more about modern Vespa's?
Perform a Google search with the term "modern Vespa".

What are other things I can do with my scoot?
Scooter clubs are forming daily. Check to see if one is already in your area. It's a great way to learn more about scootering and it's fun to go on rides together.

Scootering is a fun low-cost way to get around. It's generally easier to find parking too!

More information on Vespa ET maintenance

How to change the engine oil in a Vespa ET4 scooter

How to change the air filter in a Vespa ET4 scooter

How to change the gear box oil in a Vespa ET4 scooter

How to check the engine oil level on a Vespa ET4 scooter

How to replace the fuel tap on a Vespa ET4 scooter

Sources:
http://daysailer1.com/
How to maintain a scooter
How to winterize a scooter
Vespa ET4 150cc Four-Stroke Workshop Manual