BUYING A SCOOTER

Whatever style of scooter you choose, arrange a test ride to make sure you're happy with the controls and riding position. As with buying a car, check out any deals such as free insurance and extended warranties. And don't forget to ask for a discount.

What is a good beginners scooter to buy?
Almost by definition, all scooters are meant for "beginners" in that it's usually very easy to learn how to ride one. Typically, modern scooters are considered the easiest to learn, just because they have electric starters and automatic transmissions. However, even the manual shifting and kickstart of most classic scooters are not difficult to master.

Which model of scooter is best to buy?
Most of those who already own a particular scooter tend to favour that make and model, just because they've typically fallen in love with it. The better question to ask first is what you want to use the scooter for and what expectations do you have for it. If you want style above all else, a good older classic scooter is likely your best bet. However, if you simply want reliable transportation, a modern scooter may be a better choice, just because they tend to be newer usually. In most cases, larger capacity scooters are usually better than smaller ones. The Vespa GS is considered the best classic Vespa, while the PX series has been around for over 20 years now because of its great reliability. The Piaggio Typhoon has also earned a solid reputation. Among Lambrettas, the TV/SX/GP series machines are all considered the best models. Among Honda scooterists, the CH250 and the CN250 have earned strong followings. The Yamaha XC180 and XC200 has developed a solid reputation, as has the Yamaha CW50.

Should I buy a new or used scooter?
Buying new or used usually depends on your budget and what is available in your area. A good used scooter that has been properly maintained in most cases should be almost as good as a new one, though of course you'll usually lose the advantage of any dealer warranties. It is especially critical to carefully examine a used 50cc scooter, as all too often they have been abused the most by straining the engine to the limit much of their life. A good used scooter can have a nearly unlimited life if properly maintained. Mileage alone is not a good indicator of condition. There are common misperceptions about how many miles a scooter engine will require before rebuilding. This is also an issue of how it was maintained and stored.

The downside of buying the latest scooter models out is that to a certain extent you provide the data on whether this model will be reliable. This is why it might be advisable sometimes to wait awhile or at least buy an established scooter model, in which all the "bugs" have been worked out.

Who can offer used motorcycles and scooters?
Absolutely everybody