The Pros and Cons of Getting a Scooter

If you want to read reviews of motorized scooters for adults, take a close look at this guide that we have composed for you. Here, you can find all the pieces of info that you should have in mind before making an investment. Also, we have included reviews of highly-appreciated products, so that you can select the one you like best.

In this short, but very inclusive article, we have decided to provide you with a list of the pros and cons of getting a scooter. So, if you are a novice that wants to learn more about this particular subject, keep on reading!

The price

Purchasing and operating a car is, as you probably know, expensive. As a result, many people turn to using scooters and motorcycles to commute. This happens, because, first of all, scooters are significantly more accessible. Buying a scooter is less pricey than getting a car.

In fact, one can acquire a used model for less than 900 dollars, while brand new scooters tend to cost around 1000 dollars. Of course, there are also units that one has to pay more for.

Another plus that you should be aware of is the gas mileage. On a scooter, one can get around 60 mpg on average. The cost of filling the tank of a product of this kind is less than 10 dollars. One filling can provide you with around 200 miles.  

There are also electric options that get 100+ mpg. Smaller choices have even better gas mileage. Yet, most of them cannot be used on freeways.

Also, when compared to cars and motorcycles, you can get cheap insurance. Each year, a scooter user has to pay around 75 dollars, which is significantly less than what it costs to get insurance for a car. That can cost hundreds of dollars.

Easy to park and ride

Because scooters are small in size, they are easy to park. Most users are happy with the fact that finding parking spaces is effortless. Moreover, one does not have to build a full-sized garage to keep the scooter in.

When compared to motorcycles, most scooters are easier to ride. In fact, if you know how to ride a bike, chances are that you will have no difficulties using a scooter. This happens because these options are automatic. That is, you do not have to learn how to handle a clutch manually.

This is a good thing because you will be able to focus on the road more, as you won’t have to actually worry about the technical part of riding.

Storage space and maintenance

Scooters feature a storage space beneath the seat; this way, you get a place where you can store your belongings easily. As a plus, this storage space can be locked.

When it comes to maintenance, it should be said that the cost of filter replacement and oil changes is low. This way, you won’t have to spend lots of dollars annually. Additionally, given that scooters have a simple design, they are easy to repair, even by those who are not technically inclined.

Easy to tow

If you are using an RV, you should know that towing a scooter is easy. Once you attach the model to the RV, you won’t be able to tell that it is there. On top of that, because towing a ride of this type does not include the installment of an extra axle, you won’t have to pay extra.

E-models are ecological

If you care about the environment, you can always acquire an electric model. These products emit no carbon monoxide and they are sustainable. Most options are run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. To recharge them, you have to plug them into outlets for about 8 hours.

It is fun

Most of those who chose scooters instead of cars are happy with their decision. Riding a scooter can provide you with a feeling of freedom because you can feel the wind and the road better than you would do in a car.

Some also argue that scooters can make one appear more attractive and romantic, which is an argument that many point to.

The drawbacks

As expected, using a scooter also comes with a series of drawbacks that all interested customers should know about before making an investment.

Limitations

Although scooters include storage space, some have remarked that the space itself is limited. Also, there is little one can do to increase the said space. Therefore, you cannot go on a shopping spree when riding a device of this type.

Depending on the model that you decide to get, you might also have to consider using alternative routes to get around. Most units cannot be used on highways because they cannot reach high speeds.

Plus, just like in the case of motorcycles, if your acquisition has over 50cc, you will have to get a license in order to ride it. Of course, this means that you will have to get an instructor and pay for the license to be issued.

Safety and comfort

Studies have shown that scooter riders are in more danger than car drivers are. When riding a scooter, one has to be alert to the movements of all traffic participants in order to avoid accidents.

Furthermore, you have to wear a helmet and safety gear at all times. Investing in quality gear can be expensive, especially if you plan on getting high-quality pieces. It is advisable that you invest in a full faced helmet instead of a ¾ model. Every five years, the helmet has to be replaced for safety reasons.

Riding a scooter in rainy weather is not fun. Apart from having to deal with bad visibility, your body is not shielded against the rain. Consequently, you might get to work completely soaked and this is not a good way to start your day. Of course, you can invest in clothes that are impermeable, but they tend to be expensive and not very comfy.

Comfort is also something that you should have in mind. Sitting on a scooter for more than a few hours is not at all fun. Because of this, long cruises are not necessarily a good idea if you are a scooter rider.

Parking and e-scooters

Although parking spaces are easy to find, there is an issue that many users have to face on a daily basis. Numerous cities in the USA are not scooter-friendly. In fact, many riders have to deal with car drivers that move their vehicles from the parking spaces or knock them over.

As you probably know, e-scooters are very popular among commuters. However, in different states and municipalities, there are numerous laws that regulate the use of such devices. While in some cities, one can ride them on the sidewalk or in the bike lane, others have banned them.

So, before you use a scooter, you have to do your homework and find out what the local legislation stipulates. This way, you can avoid getting fined. The entire process can be rather strenuous as information might not be available online. If this is the case, the best thing that you can do is to ask local police officers for further info.

The bottom line

As we are sure this article has made it clear, there are both advantages and disadvantages that scooter riders have to face. If you are a novice, we recommend that you take the time to consider them before making a big investment.

This way, you won’t end up regretting your decision. If you have friends that own and use scooters on a regular basis, you can also ask them for their opinion on the matter. What is more, you could also go online and visit specialized forums where scooter enthusiasts share their stories.