A Buyers Guide to Motor Scooters!

Before the 1920s it was an easy decision, a foot-powered push scooter or none at all. But once Gino Tsai from Shanghai, Taiwan developed the Razor scooter it changed everything. His motor scooters became popular so quickly there were people waiting in line for six months before they could get one.

In the 1950s companies like Vespa in the UK started selling the first of their gas motor scooters. It was a big hit at the 1950 Motorcycle Show and quickly became a big hit in the UK as well. Vespa sold over 125,000 in the UK between the years of 1950 to 1958. Piaggio from Vespa and Lambretta from Innocenti started selling their models in Italy and France too, quickly becoming the vehicles that everyone had to own. By the early 1950s the sale of motor scooters topped 1 million a year in France alone. Because of its popularity other countries such as France and Germany decided to get in on the boom by manufacturing their own models.

Today, after more than 50 years since the first gas scooters appeared, there are many different makes and models. We have electric, gas powered, foldable, mobility and utility motor scooters dotting the globe. There are specialized scooters for just about every task. They have become a worldwide phenomenon because they are cheap to own, economical to operate, are very handy and functional, and most of all they are a lot of fun. But with all of the makes and models which one is right for you?

Let's start with the different types. Gas motor scooters are the fastest around. They will take you longer distances and reach higher speeds than any of the other varieties. There are smaller and lighter models that will be perfect for running errands around town while the larger and heavier touring models will take you on longer trips. Plus, the larger the gas tank the farther you can travel before needing to stop at a service station.

Electric varieties are a little more economical to run, but will usually travel only about 10 or 15 miles before needing a recharge. Their battery capacity has improved dramatically over the years, but they cannot be taken for long trips due to the fact that their batteries will need recharging periodically. However, for short trips around the city they are wonderful little vehicles. Plus, most scooters have a large storage capacity under the seat so they are ideal for trips to the grocery store or for other light shopping sprees.

The elderly or handicapped typically use what is referred to as mobility scooters. These are usually electric models and have 3 or 4 wheels for extra stability. These models give the elderly or disabled the ability to get about in their homes or around the neighborhood more easily. Without mobility scooters many of the disability-impaired would be confined to their beds.

Another very popular type is the foldable scooter. These are very small and are made for short trips around town. They are particularly popular among the younger crowds. The beauty of these models is that they are extremely compact and can be folded for storage in small places. If you work just a few miles from your home you can travel to work on your folding scooter and then fold it up and put it underneath your desk at work. Very handy.

There are also utility scooters which can be used for many different purposes. They can be used as golf carts or for hauling things. Many big businesses use these types for getting around their factories. Schools use them for driving through the parking lot, checking for cars that shouldn't be there. Major league sports stadiums use them to drive people from one place to another. These are wonderful vehicles that can be used for a variety of reasons.

Once you've decided which type is right for your needs the next step is to figure out what options, if any, you would like included on your vehicle. Of course you can choose from many different colors and designs, but there are other options available to you. You can choose from the many varieties of covers, locks (for security), cases or side bags for storage, helmets, seats, handgrips, windshields or windscreens, backrests for touring, chrome kits, rear luggage racks and many more options. The list of accessories can go on for quite some time.

As a rule of thumb first choose the type of scooter you want, whether it be electric, gas, foldable or utility. This is the easy part because the type you purchase will depend upon your needs. Once that decision has been made look at several popular models in your area and decide which one looks and feels right to you. Most have accessories that are manufactured for a specific model so accessories cannot be decided upon until you know which motor scooter you are going to buy. Once you've decided which accessories you want for the model you chose it's a simple matter of driving your scooter out of the dealership. And it's nothing but fun from there on out.

Electric Scooters: Love at First Spin

Gasoline prices skyrocketing? No need to worry – with a motor or electric scooter one gallon of gas will last for weeks.

As people start driving electric scooters, they find more and more reasons to like them. They’re practical, easy to park and get great gas mileage. With gasoline price raising day by day, the popularity of playful, fuel-efficient electric scooters has soared. According to industry experts, last year’s sales have doubled compared to a year ago, and only in 2005 more than 300,000 electric scooters were sold.

The hard-core scooter enthusiast enjoys the feel of scooting which many people compare to skating on land. For those who live downtown, scooters make the everyday commute fun and easy, and most models are compact enough to be taken onto public transport and then stored under a desk for the rest of the working day – and you can recharge the battery. Electric and motor scooters allow you to save money on gas – even Vespa, the grand dame of scooters, easily sips one gallon of gas during 50 miles of city ride.

Some people turn to scooters after losing their driving privileges; some find the scooter more romantic than bike and enjoy so-called scooter dates. Many people in the Far East switched to electric scooters for the fear of SARS, and this summer many scooter enthusiasts proudly looked up at their fellow city dwellers, as they were suffocating in jammed streetcars and buses.

No matter why people choose motor and electric scooters today, the thriving sales have resulted in many new models with exiting features and design.

One of the most popular scooter models is the eGO-2 Cycle, which combines the best features of a bike and an electric scooter. Ego can be used as a bicycle but has all the equipment of a scooter, including headlights, turn signals, brakes and throttle. With aluminum silver-plated chassis, this work of art can easily make up to 25mph climbing hill – and weighing less than 120 lbs! The ego retails for around $1400 depending on a retailer.

Another two-wheeled whiz kid on the block is a Xootr, a cross between a skateboard and an electric scooter. Although Xootr can take you around at the speed of 10 km it has neither suspension nor real brakes but with its extremely light-weight, these disadvantages are easy to live with. And when the batteries run low, you can still propel it with kicking.

Speaking of scooters, it’s impossible to miss out the famous Vespa. These two-wheeled wonders of Italian design have enchanted Europeans since the end of 1940s, when designers Corradino D'Ascanio and Enrico Piaggio created an affordable two-wheeled vehicle for the masses. And Hollywood loves Vespa too, putting Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday and Nicole Kidman in The Interpreter on equally stylish Vespas.

Indeed, women comprise more than 60 per cent of all scooter owners. And with affordable prices – most scooters range from $800 to a $1000, while bigger and faster scooters can cost as much as $10,000 – scooters have quickly carved out their niche on today’s city road.

What Are the Best Motor Scooter Brands?

With motorized scooters selling like crazy, the number of reputable manufacturers in the market is growing all the time. We don't have time to talk about all the brands out there, so this article will mention a handful that continue to stand out for their innovation and commitment to excellent scooter design.

Now, I admit that evaluating scooter beauty is a kind of subjective goal, so it could be a small stretch to call these are the "three best brands"--but just hear me out! Personal preferences aside, these are three scooter brands that qualify as can't miss favorites, year after year.

First up is the Vespa line by Piaggio.

The first motor scooter craze began in Italy after World War II. A stormy post-war economy pushed Piaggio, a military aircraft firm, toward a brand new market: motorized scooters. The rest is history. The early Vespas had ground-breaking features, hidden engines, and easy-to-change tires--and they started a wave of scooter popularity that swept across Europe. Jump to the 21st century, when Piaggio released an American scooter line. Today, Vespa motor scooters continue to get a lot of love for their excellent workmanship and "mod" vintage style.

Second, we'll look at motorized scooters by Honda.

Am I right in thinking that Honda doesn't really need an introduction? This Japanese manufacturer has cemented its reputation as a top tier vehicle manufacturer by creating compact, economical cars that are affordable and easy to maintain. Take that same commitment to quality, apply it to motorized scooters, and you get the idea. Honda scooters are designed with modern surfaces and lines and continue to push the limits of efficient, green fuel usage.

Third, we'll check out Yamaha motor scooters.

Yamaha's motorcycles are renowned for their punchy engines and edgy designs. When you see someone zoom past on a Yamaha cycle, you just assume he's a cool dude (even if he's not). So it is a no-brainer that Yamaha is king of the hill in the motorized scooter market as well. Yamaha is an international leader in scooter technology, continuing to pioneer new models that are stronger, faster, more fuel efficient, and yeah--more cool.

If you drive a scooter by one of these manufacturers, you probably feel the pride of ownership. If you're still exploring the motor scooter market, it's hard to go wrong buying a Vespa, Honda, or Yamaha--but there are other good companies as well.

Generally, trustworthy scooter makers can be recognized by their generous warranties and established reputations. If you're not sure whether the brand you're looking at is legit, look online for reviews and check around for additional distribution centers--service and parts should be readily available. You might also want to get some additional input about the actual buying process.

Gas Moped Scooter - Not Just For Fun

Buying a gas moped scooter is a great way to have fun on the road without emptying your bank account. In the past scooters have mainly been used by teenagers for getting to and from friends houses, school or college. You can often see them admiring each others scooters outside coffee shops etc. The most popular models being the Vespa, Lambretta, piaggio and the smaller Honda models.

This trend is now starting to show signs of change, the main reason is the recent rise in gas prices and heavy city traffic, consequently more and more commuters are looking at the gas moped scooter as a reliable way of getting around town.

The scooter companies are beginning to recognize this and are producing higher spec models to entice the more mature dollar their way. One of the biggest producers is Honda who have a stunning range of higher powered scooters, such as the Silver Wing; this a stunning gas moped scooter which is sleek and stylish it has a smooth liquid cooled twin engine and the acclaimed Honda v-matic transmission. The Silver Wing has a seating capacity for two and tons of storage for that hard to stow brief case and spare motorcycle helmet.

If you want the comfort of the Silver Wing but with a smaller engine the Honda Reflex is a great choice. From city streets to country roads to long stretches of highway, the Reflex gas moped scooter is built for any number of rides. Its smooth 249cc engine, automatic transmission and comfortable seating for two deliver the goods to get you going, wherever the day takes you.

The Piaggio X9 Evolution 500 is an excellent gas moped scooter and satisfies all needs. Agile, easy to handle and the most compact of all maxi scooters. Once out of town, it is able to shift character and open up to wide open spaces with remarkable ease. The X9 has a top speed of 98mph comes with disc brakes and and on board computer.

It is well worth considering using a scooter or small motorcycle for getting around the city or those short trips to the store or football game where you can just park and forget it. You will be amazed how much you will save on insurance premiums and most of all gas. One fill up will probably satisfy the average commuting needs for a month so why not make your next vehicle purchase a gas moped scooter.

Gas Moped Scooter - Not Just For Fun

Buying a gas moped scooter is a great way to have fun on the road without emptying your bank account. In the past scooters have mainly been used by teenagers for getting to and from friends houses, school or college. You can often see them admiring each others scooters outside coffee shops etc. The most popular models being the Vespa, Lambretta, piaggio and the smaller Honda models.

This trend is now starting to show signs of change, the main reason is the recent rise in gas prices and heavy city traffic, consequently more and more commuters are looking at the gas moped scooter as a reliable way of getting around town.

The scooter companies are beginning to recognize this and are producing higher spec models to entice the more mature dollar their way. One of the biggest producers is Honda who have a stunning range of higher powered scooters, such as the Silver Wing; this a stunning gas moped scooter which is sleek and stylish it has a smooth liquid cooled twin engine and the acclaimed Honda v-matic transmission. The Silver Wing has a seating capacity for two and tons of storage for that hard to stow brief case and spare motorcycle helmet.

If you want the comfort of the Silver Wing but with a smaller engine the Honda Reflex is a great choice. From city streets to country roads to long stretches of highway, the Reflex gas moped scooter is built for any number of rides. Its smooth 249cc engine, automatic transmission and comfortable seating for two deliver the goods to get you going, wherever the day takes you.

The Piaggio X9 Evolution 500 is an excellent gas moped scooter and satisfies all needs. Agile, easy to handle and the most compact of all maxi scooters. Once out of town, it is able to shift character and open up to wide open spaces with remarkable ease. The X9 has a top speed of 98mph comes with disc brakes and and on board computer.

It is well worth considering using a scooter or small motorcycle for getting around the city or those short trips to the store or football game where you can just park and forget it. You will be amazed how much you will save on insurance premiums and most of all gas. One fill up will probably satisfy the average commuting needs for a month so why not make your next vehicle purchase a gas moped scooter.

History of Gas Scooters

The first patents for scooters go back as far as 1921. The Razor scooter was later developed by Gino Tsai in Shanghai, Taiwan and became an instant hit with the public. It didn't take long for motor scooter popularity to expand all over the globe.

Even before 1950 there were as many as 110,000 scooters on the road in Italy alone. It has been just a little over 50 years since the Vespa-Douglas Corporation in the UK sold their first gas scooters. The Douglas corporation was on the verge of bankruptcy when they first began selling their gas scooters. It was a big hit at the 1950 Motorcycle Show and saved the company from possible financial ruin.

From 1950 to 1958 Vespa sold over 125,000 of their gas powered scooters in the UK. Why the great success? During this period the European countries didn't have a great deal of money and there was not much gas available to the public. Due to the scarcity of gasoline and the high gas mileage of the gas motor scooter it's popularity quickly escalated.

It didn't take long for the Italian models (the Piaggio from Vespa and the Lambretta from Innocenti) to branch out to other countries. In France they became so popular the French tried to get in on the boom by manufacturing their own. By the early to mid 1950s the sale of gas scooters climbed to about 1 million a year in France alone.

Other countries wanted to profit from the newest craze and tried to climb on the band wagon. While some were successful others were not. Germany began to manufacture larger touring models, but this did not satisfy the public in the way the smaller, cheaper and more fuel-efficient models from Italy and France did. These smaller models were extremely popular in the European market.

Tourist Scooters Manufacturers in Germany built some very strong and powerful versions and were the first to install electric starters. These larger versions were great for traveling, touring and even racing, but were not as popular as the smaller, cheaper, more efficient models used for traveling shorter distances around town.

Vespa began marketing a couple of very popular gas powered scooters from Piaggio, the GS 125cc and the GS 150cc. These were improved versions of the earlier models for several reasons. The biggest reason is probably because the heavy gear mechanism rods were replaced by smaller and lighter cables.

France's Roussey Scooters tried to one-up the Italian competition by coming out with a 175cc model. These were very nice vehicles and included the first water-cooled engines along with other new features, but because it had a pull-start it could not compete with the newer models from Italy that were already offering versions with electric starts.

As these wonderful vehicles have evolved over the years they have become increasingly more popular all over the world. Today they are everywhere. They are cheap to purchase, economical to operate, and are very handy and functional. These are not toys and are genuinely a lot of fun to ride. There are electric, gas powered, foldable, mobility and utility scooters.

The electric types are often used by kids and teens, but are also popular with the elderly and handicapped. Models for the handicapped are usually called mobility scooters. Folding varieties can be folded up and conveniently stored under desks, in closets or in other tiny areas and utility types are used for many different purposes. They are more popular than go karts, mini bikes or go carts. Scooters, sometimes called mopeds or go peds, are very functional, convenient and are here to stay

Stay Safe Riding Your Scooter or Vespa With These Safety Tips

If you are considering a Scooter or a Vespa as your primary means of transportation to save money, there are some things you need to know. Mopeds and Scooters are not the same, Scooters and Vespas have different motor vehicle regulations and safety issues than their larger cousin the Moped. Scooters are inexpensive and they can save you a lot of money on gas and insurance. Scooters are easy to maintain and they depreciate slowly. However, because of their relatively smaller size, scooters are hard to see by drivers of motor vehicles especially in traffic and the most frequent injuries are fractures to arms and legs. The following tips will help you have safe "scootering":

Wear bright or reflective clothing to maximize your visibility at night.

Wear a DOT, ANSI, OR Snell-approved helmet which are designed with hard outer shells and a retention system to protect the head and the brain in a variety of impacts. In 2006, 41% of those killed in crashes were not wearing a helmet.

If your helmet is not equipped with a face shield, wear goggles or glasses with plastic lenses to protect your eyes against insects, wind, dirt, rocks, or other airborne matter.

Wear elbow and knee pads.

Wear slip-resistant shoes and avoid wearing sandals, flip-flops or shoes with laces.

Ride with the flow of traffic.

Obey the speed limits and never travel faster than your skill level or than the conditions allow.

Know how to use hand signals and signal well before you make a turn or lane change.

Use extra caution at intersections, parking lot entrances and exits, and driveways.

Avoid hitting road hazards, such as sharp bumps and holes in the road surface. These hazards can cause loss of control or damage.

Be especially conscious of traffic from behind.

Do not operate your scooter at night. The scooter is not equipped to be operated in the dark or low light conditions. It may not be easily visible to cars, pedestrians or other scooters.

If you ride at night, make sure you have a safety headlight for your scooter.

Ride only on smooth hard surfaces. Motor scooters are not designed to be used in off road conditions. Use caution when rolling over obstacles.

Avoid gravel or uneven roads.

Do not allow the motorized scooter to be used in the rain, nor to be driven through puddles of water. The motor, batteries and controls can be damaged if exposed to water.

The scooter should be used by only one person at a time. Do not carry additional persons or items while riding. Do not put additional loads on the motor scooter by pulling or towing anything.

Scooters must have a seat for highway use.

Park so you do not block sidewalks, handicap and building accesses, or emergency drives

Check all joints, hinges and quick releases to ensure the scooter is properly assembled. Stop using the scooter immediately if any joint, hinge, or quick release becomes loose.

Maintain proper air pressure in the tires. Low air pressure induces extra rolling friction, reduces ground clearance, and wears the tires quicker.

If the brake lever touches the handlebar grip, stop using the scooter until the lever is adjusted.

This checklist is not completely exhaustive. You should check for state specific rules with your local DMV.

The Vespa

The Vespa is Internationally renowned as an icon of Italian design, freedom and style.

The Vespa was designed by D'Ascanio and born in 1946.
In post 2nd World War Italy, Enrico Piaggio decided that Italy needed a vehicle to get the Italians moving again. (The Fiat 500 shares a similar success story). The job of designing this vehicle was given to Corradino D'Ascanio, who was already employed by Piaggio, designing aeronautics.
The Vespa was classy and simple as opposed to being a noisy and awkward motorbike.

In April 1946, the first 15 Vespas were manufactured. Three years later towards the end of 1949, this number had increased to 35, 000, and another 7 years later one million had been made. Around this time in 1956, with the continuing popularity of the Vespa, production then started in Germany, Great Britain, Spain France and Spain. Just a few years later, Vespas then began to be manufactured in India and Indonesia.

The Vespa has had a notable social impact on the Italian lifestyle, resulting with Italy being named 'Vespa Country', and the vehicle appearing in many films, especially around the time of the 'Dolce Vita' period.

Vespa Scooters and Their History

Vespa an italian built scooter manufactured by Piaggio. If you have ever seen any older European movies from the 60's I guarantee that you have seen when of these creations. Over the years Vespa's have evolved from single model scooters to a full line of scooters that will satisfy even the most picky consumer.

Vespa's have been a hit since the first one rolled off the assembly line. But now they are mostly known for the painted, pressed steel unibody that houses the complete engine compartment. The flatboard to keep your feet and a prominent front fairing (mainly used for wind protection).

In the 1940's the Vespa was used primarily for troops in World War II. The United States enjoyed these scooters because they were helpful in getting around Nazi defense tactics of destroying roads and bridges in the Dolomites (a section of the Alps) and the Austrian border areas.

With today´s gas prices it is no wonder why Vespa scooters are so popular after so many years of service. Suburbanites are looking for something different to entertain their weekends and for commuters who are tired of filling their gas guzzling vehicles. Over the years though Vespas started to pass away from american society, but fast forward to this day and time. Outfitted with two new models that are environmentally friendly and fuel efficient the Piaggio built Vespa returned to the United States in the year 2000. The ET2 model replaced the usual mineral oil with synthetic oil which meant they emitted less smoke while driving. This model can reach 40 mph and can get up to 60 miles to the gallon.

The company has also released a version of the Vespa that is a hybrid gas/electric for even for fuel economy. They also introduced a scooter with two wheels in front and one in back which grips the road better. This version of the scooter has taken off and is now being copied by motorcycle makers alike.