Vespa?

Telford · #1 05-21-2008, 05:34 AM

I can understand why someone that rides a motorbike would poopoo a scooter. I used to ride a motorbike, but was always so paranoid about being flattened i got rid of it. The speed of a motorbike is definetly a rush but honestly i feel much safer on a scooter. For the most part because i'm rarely doing more that 60-70 km/h because i mainly just ride it around town.

For simply getting around town there is nothing better. You can buy one today and ride it today. Don't need to waste time and money getting a motorbike license. You can ride down the shoulders past all the stopped traffic. Can park it on the sidewalk. As far as price is concerned, you can buy a brand new one for $2500. That's pretty cheap in my opinion. They take up no room to park at home if you have a garage. In my case i live in a condo and only have one parking stall so i can still fit the scooter and my FJ cruiser in the same spot.

Just thought i'd stick up for the scooter nerds...

ElGuappo · #2 05-21-2008, 05:50 AM

Im not PooPooing them i used to drive a moped back in the day. just think a heavier person should consider something with a little more power.

muck · #3 05-22-2008, 02:02 PM

I have been thinking about getting one too Drew. Ever since last May's Europe trip where you see them everywhere..

Here is a photo I snapped in Paris on the road directly in front of the Eiffel Tower. Im pretty sure this guy was on his way to work as it was 8:30 in the morning.
Unfortunately you can't see his bright red tie flipped over his left shoulder..

digital-audiophile · #4 05-22-2008, 03:48 PM

I've also thought about getting a scooter for the downtown commute. With gas prices going through the roof it is costing me ~$80 a week commuting back and forth in the SUV.

Der_Iron_Chef · #5 05-22-2008, 05:06 PM

Hah, Ryan that's awesome!

And Telford, you make some good points.

Hmmm....maybe I'll have a look-see over at Blackfoot Motorsports

Der_Iron_Chef · #6 05-22-2008, 05:48 PM

BTW...does anyone know what the criteria are for when you do need a motorcycle license, etc? What cc, etc?

Telford · #7 05-22-2008, 06:15 PM

You don't need a license for a scooter under 50cc. Atleast the registration has to say it's less than 50 cc. You can buy a 50cc scooter and then tweak it up to 70cc or so.

Pan · #8 05-22-2008, 06:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Der_Iron_Chef

BTW...does anyone know what the criteria are for when you do need a motorcycle license, etc? What cc, etc?

http://www.infratrans.gov.ab.ca/844.htm

Brent F · #9 05-22-2008, 07:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Telford

I can understand why someone that rides a motorbike would poopoo a scooter. I used to ride a motorbike, but was always so paranoid about being flattened i got rid of it. The speed of a motorbike is definetly a rush but honestly i feel much safer on a scooter. For the most part because i'm rarely doing more that 60-70 km/h because i mainly just ride it around town.

I've always felt the opposite. I feel far safer with the better power, handling and braking of a motorcycle. I'd hate to be on Deerfoot on a scooter.

Get a Ducati - they are lighter than a scooter, better handling, ...

Quote:

Originally Posted by BMW Rider

Riding a scooter is like doing it with a fat girl. It can be lots of fun until your friends find out.

I've always heard the same thing said about Japaneese bikes

(Former BMW K100RS rider now on a Ducati Monster)

DanG · #10 05-23-2008, 06:06 PM

There's actually been a couple of guys at work lately who have gotten honda ruckus's.
http://www.honda.ca/MCPE/Motorcycle/...8&Model=NPS508

They get 70ish mpg, and it has offroadish tires, so if your roads are anything like the ones we have here, it might be worth a look, plus it doesn't look like a conventional scooter.
Also, when debating a scooter vs a motorcycle, don't forget insurance, which can be quite surprising.