Motor Scooters - The People's Vehicle

In contrast to the electric motor scooter, high-powered motor scooters tend to be more heavily regulated. It is important to be aware of local laws regarding their possession and use. Motor scooter operators must be at least 16 and licensed. In most locations, motor scooters are required to be registered and insured, and riders must wear helmets. Some municipalities require motor scooters to maintain a top speed of 20 mph. Very low powered scooters may be exempt from some requirements, and additional laws may apply to high-powered scooters.

Although electric scooters and motorcycles are both excellent alternatives to cars, motor scooters offer additional advantages. The fuel economy of a motor scooter is significantly higher than that of a motorcycle. Yet since scooters run on fuel, the limitations on range found in electric scooters are eliminated. A motor scooter is much easier to learn to drive than is a motorcycle. Most motor scooters offer lockable storage compartments, which are generally not available on either motorcycles or electric scooters. While electric scooters operate at a maximum speed of 25 mph and often less, some motor scooters can maintain highway speeds.

This type of vehicle has been available for almost as long as motorcycles and the two share a similar history. As with motorcycles, a subculture exists of motor scooter enthusiasts who meet regularly at scooter rallies. Many enthusiasts collect and restore vintage scooters, while others are dedicated to keeping up with new and changing scooter trends.

Enthusiasts for scooters range in age from teens to senior citizens. The low purchase price and insurance costs, coupled with incredible fuel economy, make scooters accessible to all levels of society. However, for a variety of reasons, those who use their scooters for travel or as an alternative to a car tend to be hardy and adventurous souls. Travel during inclement weather is considered more comfortable on a scooter than on a motorcycle, due to the shielding nature of the scooter body and the ability to wear full rain gear. However, bad weather is still something that most people would prefer to avoid when traveling in an open vehicle. If you are not comfortable with riding in all weather, it would be wise to avoid making a scooter your primary vehicle.

Adding fuel to a scooter can be a two-stage process. The small fuel tank is difficult to fill at a gas pump; instead, many scooter owners carry a small gas can or simply siphon fuel from their own car. Finally, the issues of flat tires and mechanical breakdowns must be addressed. Many towing clubs do not cover scooters and locating a scooter mechanic in an unknown location can be difficult. Very few scooters are sold with a spare tire, and scooter tires may be hard to locate. Consequently, many scooter owners learn to do some level of roadside repairs, particularly of flat tires.

Motor scooters have a few minor drawbacks. However, their ease of use, comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and small size make scooters a popular choice for in-town travel. Taking the time to learn about local laws and any concerns you may have will help you to decide if a scooter is the best choice for you.