Motorized Scooters: What's To Know?
With gas prices seemingly at a steady increase, many people are contemplating alternatives to cars. Even as vehicles like the Prius become more popular and celebrities like Lance Armstrong have popularize bicycles again, motorized scooters have been the adopted solution to many fuel and space issues the world over for many years.
How Do We Define A Scooter?
Motorized scooters, also called just scoots, are distinct from motorcycles in that they have a step-through architecture. Many people find this is more comfortable than the leaned-back straddle of many motorcycles. There are no strict definitions, but a motorized scooter is generally distinguished by the foot stand for the driver and/or passengers. The engine capacity runs to 30 cc's all the way up to 650-you'll probably find that a scooter has more than enough zip for you!
The Advantages Of Motorized Scooters
What if you no longer had to worry about whether you'd be able to find a spot to park? With a motorized scooter, this problem is easily tackled by its small size. For every SUV in a parking spot, you could comfortably fit half a dozen scooters. And while the fuel economical Prius is only now toying with 94 mpg, Italian motorized scooter maker Aprillia released a fuel injected scoot in 2001 that easily runs for 117 mpg.
Style
Being green these days is about as stylish as it gets. And it doesn't hurt that in the U.S. motorized scooters have ties a chic European sophistication. You can make any jaunt through downtown a European holiday by hopping on your motorized scooter. You don't have to be a suave Italian to drive a nice Italian motorized scooter through town-but people might mistake you for one.
Safety
Imagine if you could cross the street without having to worry about any large vehicles. With the nimble motorized scooter, you can stay cool on the road. Of course, wearing a helmet is an essential aspect of using a scooter. While the motorized scooter's lowered speeds make it safer for use on roads, you'll definitely stay smart by wearing a helmet. Luckily, helmets also complement the motorized scooter package quite nicely.
Costs
Scooters are significantly cheaper to maintain and fuel than cars. This has made them hugely popular in many developing countries, where you'll often see them as the most populous form of transportation on the road. They are generally cheaper to buy than cars, too, although you'll find there is a range of options and prices available.