Thinking of buying a scooter (ride, drivers, motor, hybrid vehicle)

[mdtoaz]

I'm thinking about buying a scooter to save on gas since I'm always driving to the complete opposite end of town (roughly a 45 min - hour drive). I like the Stella scooters and was wondering if anyone has an opinion about them.

Are they hard to drive? How much is insurance? Do they keep up in traffic? As much as I'd love to buy a hybrid vehicle, I don't want to have another car payment right now, so I thought this might be a good alternative.

[Suzet2262]

I know anything about the Stella. My daughter has been researching the Honda and Vespa Scooters. Here are the links;

Vespa Scooters

Honda Scooters - Honda Motor Scooter Info, Specs, Prices

Hopefully these links will help you in your search. Good luck.

[mdtoaz]

Thanks for the links... I think we might stop by a local scooter shop too this weekend. It might sound vain, but the one thing I like about the Stella is the style - the look very retro.

[Wild Style]

^^

make sure you buy proper gear too. Riding shoes, jacket, helmet and pants.

[stock66]

Genuine scooters have a good reputation and a lot of die hard fans.
I believe the Stella's have 150cc engines? That should certainly be fine for city traffic. In California you need to have a 150 for the freeway, not sure of the law where you are. Depending on your size you will probably be able to get up to 60MPH or so. You will have to decide for yourself if you feel that is OK for the area you drive.
Scooters are known for being easy to ride since they tend to be smaller and lighter than motorcycles. Most are also automatics (I don't know about Stellas)
If you haven't ridden before you might want to take the MSF course first to make sure how you feel about 2 wheels. If you don't take it before you buy a scooter take it anyway as the training is very valuable.
Check your DMs for a message.

[mdtoaz]

I don't think I'd want to drive it on the highway - that just seems a little scary. The Stella has a 150cc engine but it is a manual transmission. I think the site said it was a "twist grip" shifter. Doesn't sound like it would be too difficult.

A course might be a good idea too!

[gardener34]

Get something that you will be able to get parts for. there are a number of chinese makers out there now and their stuff is cheap... but what happens when these break eventually. Is there a parts support?
I know honda has parts at least. We have a honda helix, automatic trans. You will love it. Just make sure to wear a helmet and watch out for the cagers! (car drivers)

[tortoise]

Originally Posted by gardener34

there are a number of chinese makers out there now and their stuff is cheap... but what happens when these break eventually. Is there a parts support?

Parts for the 139QMB 49cc and 157QMJ 150cc 4-stroke China scooter engines are available from eBay and numerous other online vendors. PartsForScooters is one resource . . Google the engine designations for others. "New To Scooters" thread. Definitely consider the importance of always wearing proper safety gear . .
video example.

Research the DMV website for your state . . many do not require registration or insurance for under 50cc and not over 30 mph scooters, only a regular drivers license.

Pep Boys Auto Parts sells (but does NOT service) assembled 49cc and 150cc scooters. Scooters ordered from online vendors are often damaged while in-transit.

For those that have the mechanical aptitude, some very good values for "deficient" China scooters can often be found on your regional craigslist > for sale > motorcycles/scooters . . potential issues.

[WASP1200]

Buy One You Can Get Parts For, Such As A Yamaha Or Honda
If Not You Are Screwed If It Breaks Down.
Be Sure To Get A Good Lock!

[airedaly]

How about an electric scooter - no emissions, no gas, just plug it in the socket at night! You can even get a little cart that attaches to the back for all your shopping.
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