Scooters Gain Popularity as Gas Prices Rise

Considering the cost of gas today, many people are considering altering how they drive and what type of vehicle they drive. For this reason, motorcycles and motorized scooters are becoming more popular. A scooter can get up to 80 miles per gallon, and some types can go up to 45 miles per hour, which makes it a highly practical vehicle, especially in summer weather. Scooters are more popular in Europe than in the U.S., although more are being sold in the U.S. now than in the past.

A new scooter can typically be purchased for around $1500-1800 depending on what dealers are located in the area, although some models can cost up to several thousand dollars. Used, however, they may be sold for several hundred. To find one to purchase, you could either look up local dealerships in the phone book or browse the classified ads for a used scooter. Look for stores that specialize in scooter sales and repair, and be aware that many motorcycle shops do not carry scooters as well.

While not quite as powerful as motorcycles, scooters offer less experienced riders the feel of a motorcycle without requiring insurance or special licensing. In fact, in many states, vehicles with motors that are 49 cc's and below do not require riders to have a driver's license at all. There are often age requirements, however, to restrict children from driving. The mechanics of a scooter differ slightly from that of a motorcycle, so that steering is slightly different. For example, it is not as necessary to lean when making a turn.

Scooters have the advantage of being able to go on most roads, as well as sidewalks. They are particularly useful for people who live close to work or on a college campus where parking for cars is often scarce. The feeling of riding a scooter is very different from riding in a car, or even riding a bicycle. As with a motorcycle ride, you become much more aware of your surroundings than you would be in a car.