Which scooter should I buy?

Which scooter should I buy?

There are several things you should consider when deciding on the right scooter for your needs. Think about factors such as your age, what you need the scooter for, how much you want to spend, and the cost of upkeep. While this seems like a lot of things to consider, the answer to each will usually help you decide on the others. Of course, it's also worth considering what sort of model you would be happy to ride.

Age

If you're 16, the only models available to you are 50cc scooters. These have a maximum speed of 30mph, and most don't have gears. You can ride a 50cc scooter after taking a CBT test, and can de-restrict them or upgrade once you turn 17. However, if you're 17 or over, you have access to 125cc scooter and motorcycles. These have a top speed of 60mph, and make a good choice for out of city rides.

Purpose

If your thinking which scooter should I buy? The use is important. If you just need a cheap-to-run vehicle, mainly for city riding and short journeys, go for a 50cc scooter. The 30mph top speed is fine for city driving, as it's unlikely you will be able to travel above this. 125cc scooters are a better choice for longer journeys, especially on A roads. If you plan to travel out of a city, and need the extra speed for open roads, go for a 125cc.

Cost

50cc scooters are cheaper, and cost somewhere around the £1699 mark. They also have better fuel economy and lower maintenance costs, including significantly lower premiums. 50cc scooters make a good choice for younger riders as they can be run on less money. 125cc scooters and motorbikes cost more, starting at £1699 and going all the way to £2,599. The extra cost gets you a more sophisticated vehicle with a higher top speed and more features. This is because 125s are designed for longer riding, and so will usually have better seats and more on-board storage.

Style

For many people, this will be the most important thing to consider. What sort of scooter do you want to be seen riding? If you like the retro style of scooter, you can choose from either 50cc or 125cc. These are a great choice if you want to look like you've just ridden out of a 50s movie, but aren't for everyone. If you prefer a more modern scooter style, look for sports models. These feature more angular lines, and are what most people see when they think of a scooter. However, if you want to invest in the full look, go for a 125cc motorcycle. These look like "proper" motorbikes, and are available in traditional and motocross styles. They are essentially full motorbikes, just with smaller engines.

It can seem like there's a lot to think about when buying a scooter, but these are questions you'd ask yourself whenever you invest in a big purchase. Consider your needs and budget to help you decide on the most appropriate model for you.