How to Choose Your Motorized Scooter
So you’re ready to jump into the world of motorized scooters? Fantastic. We can guarantee that the journey will not only save you money-it will also be a lot of fun. But buying a motor scooter is a sizable investment, and you want to get it right.
So how do you choose the scooter that’s right for you? How do you locate the ideal model and type? The market can be intimidating at first glance, but have no fear! By answering some simple questions, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the perfect scooter.
First, who will ride the scooter? You (the homeowner, vacationer, urban professional, retiree, student, etc.)-or your kids? Motorized scooters designed for children are intended to bear less weight and travel shorter distances. As a result, they cost substantially less. When you start looking around at scooters, make sure you’re in the right market, kids/adults.
Second, how far do you want to go? Will you use the scooter primarily on a campus? On off-road trails? In a neighborhood? For urban commutes? If you need to ride further than 12-15 miles at a time, you may want to consider a gas powered scooter, because electric scooters above this range become very expensive and somewhat hard to find. A variety of factors affect range ratings for motorized scooters (rider’s weight, inclines, tire pressure)-but typically the manufacturer will list a “range rating” that reflects the scooter’s ability under ideal conditions.
Third, how fast do you want to drive? Seriously. The ability to put the pedal to the metal may seem like a minor consideration–until you’re perched on your scooter, watching foot traffic pass you. Electric scooters typically fall in the 8 mph to 25 mph range. If you want to go significantly faster than that, or drive on highways, you’ll want to consider a gas powered or hybrid model (or prepare yourself to pay the big bucks for a speedy electric scooter). Again, a variety of factors come into play when speed ratings are handed out. But as you would suspect, a manufacturer’s rating will reflect the scooter’s speed under ideal conditions.
Starting to sort your options? If so, you’re making progress in choosing the right scooter. You may also be ready to read 3 More Steps to Choosing the Perfect Motorized Scooter. That’s right, there’s more to think about! But don’t worry; by answering these questions, you’re moving toward a smart buy.
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Why Buy Gas Powered Scooters?
The popularity of motor scooters today is no secret. But if you’re in the market for a scooter, the first decision you’ll have to make is whether to buy an electric or gas powered model.
We reviewed the advantages of electric motorized scooters in already. Now let’s take a look at what gas powered models have to offer. As you read, ask yourself, “How do I visualize using my scooter?” The answer to that question will guide your choice.
Gas powered scooters get points because…
- They can travel further without refueling. Batteries typically need to be charged every couple hours, while a 1-2 gallon gas tank can take you as far as 200 miles.
- Gas scooters get more bang for the buck as far as speed. You can go faster and pay less. Gas powered scooters in the same price category as electric scooters typically go 15-25 mph faster. And if you really want to cruise down the highway, you’ll almost certainly need a gas powered (or hybrid) scooter.
- Gas scooters offer more utility–with greater speed and power, gas models are the workhorses of the scooter world. They can carry more weight, have greater range, and perform better on hills and rough terrain.
- They tend to be more durable, because they’re built to handle higher speeds and are often designed for off-road use.
- Refueling is as fast and easy as filling a tank. With an electric scooter, it’s hard to charge a battery on the fly, and recharging takes four to eight hours.
- Gas powered scooters work well in all temperatures, while battery power is affected by extremes of cold and heat.
Feeling more indecisive than ever? Hopefully not–but if so, take heart. The good news is that both gas and electric motorized scooters are made by very reputable manufacturers, both represent gigantic fuel savings over cars, and both are substantially better for the environment. In addition, hybrid models are being developed that combine the best of both worlds.
Here’s a quick recap. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly investment, an electric motorized scooter may be the right pick. This is especially true if your usage will be primarily urban and short-range. If you want to pack up your scooter like luggage and take it on trips, then choose an electric model.
If you want a scooter that’s capable of long-range or off-road travel, take a good look at gas powered models. You’ll pay less up front for speed-and you’ll have a tougher, more versatile motor scooter. You won’t save as much on fuel as you would with an electric model, but getting at least 50 mpg on gasoline is nothing to sneeze at.
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Why Buy Electric Scooters?
If you’re in the market for a motorized scooter, the first decision you’ll have to make is whether to buy an electric or gas powered model.
Some sites will tell you that one or the other is dramatically better-but you’ll usually notice that the type they endorse is the type they’re selling. We won’t do that, because there are pros and cons to consider either way. Let’s look at electric scooters first.
Electric motorized scooters win points because…
- Electricity costs dramatically less than gasoline-up to 75 percent less. Charging an electric scooter can cost just cents a day. This is probably the most convincing argument in favor of electric motorized scooters.
- Battery technology is gradually improving, and will continue to–while gasoline becomes more problematic all the time.
- Electric motor scooters are environmentally friendly (no exhaust). If your goal is to work for a greener planet, then an electric scooter is the choice for you. Gas scooters give off environmentally harmful emissions. However, they produce less exhaust than a car, so they’re a step in the right direction.
- You can ride electric scooters indoors. Just resist the temptation to jump the stairs.
- You can recharge at home. Plug your scooter in next to your computer, by your bed, wherever.
- You can bring electric scooters on trips, because electric models are allowed in buses, planes, and trains-while gas models are not.
- Maintenance is easier and cheaper. No oil changes, for example, and battery acids are contained. No need to handle fuel.
- Electric scooters are virtually silent (low humming sound) and they start instantly. Gas scooters, on the other hand, can be compared to a motorcycle or lawnmower in terms of noise output.
Electric scooters are especially well-suited for people who foresee predictable, short-range, urban use. For example, riding around a neighborhood or campus. Using an electric model on a regular schedule will give you the time you need to make sure it’s charged up.
After reading this overview, you may be high on electric scooters, and we don’t blame you! But hang on a second–some people have demands that are a better match for gas powered scooters. The fact that the world’s most reputable scooter brands make both gas and electric models is evidence of this. To hear the pro-gasoline powered argument, read part 2 in this series, which focuses on gas scooters.
Filed Under Electric Scooters, Motor Scooters, Motorized Scooters | Leave a Comment
What Are the 3 Best Motor Scooter Brands?
With motorized scooters getting more popular all the time, there are a growing number of good manufacturers in the market. We don’t have space to mention all the brands out there, so this page will highlight a handful that continue to stand out for their style and commitment to quality scooter design. (As opposed to brands renowned for cheap scooters.) It’s true that scooter beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so it may be a little stretch to say these are the “three top brands”-but at any rate, these are three brands that qualify as can’t miss favorites, year in, year out.
The Vespa line by Piaggio
The first motorized scooter craze began in Italy after World War II. A turbulent post-war economy pushed Piaggio, a former military aircraft firm, toward a new market: motorized scooters. The rest, as they say, is history. The early Vespas had innovative features, a concealed engine, and easy-to-change tires-and they sparked a wave of scooter popularity that spread across Europe. Jump to the 21st century, when Piaggio decided to release an American line. Today, Vespa motor scooters are loved for their excellent workmanship and cool vintage style.
Motorized Scooters by Honda
Honda doesn’t really need an introduction. The Japanese company has cemented their reputation as a premiere vehicle manufacturer by consistently producing compact, fuel-efficient cars that are affordable and easy to maintain. Take that same commitment to quality, apply it to motor scooters, and you get the idea. Honda scooters are designed with modern lines and surfaces and continue to push the limits of economical, green scooter use.
Yamaha Motor Scooters
Yamaha’s motorcycles are renowned for their ultra-cool designs. When you see someone crouching on a Yamaha cycle, you just assume he’s one cool dude (even if he’s not). So it makes perfect sense for Yamaha to occupy the top tier of the motorized scooter market as well. Yamaha is a global leader in scooter technology, continuing to pioneer new models that are stronger, faster, more fuel efficient, and yeah-more cool.
If you own a motorized scooter by one of these manufacturers, you’re well aware of its quality. If you’re still investigating the motor scooter market, you can’t go wrong buying a Vespa, Honda, or Yamaha–but there are other good companies out there as well.
Generally, trustworthy manufacturers can be recognized by their solid warranties and established reputations. If you’re shopping for scooters, and unsure whether the brand you’re looking at is legit, search the web for reviews and check around for other distribution centers–service and parts should be readily available. You can also check out How to Buy Your Motor Scooter.
Filed Under Motor Scooters, Motorized Scooters | 2 Comments
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