I have driven motorcycles are scooters much different?

Question

I want to buy a vespa GT 200cc and have driven small motorcycles are they that much different if so in what ways

Answer 1

I haven't personally driven a motorcycle or scooter that small. I have a mid-size cruiser (650cc) and a friend of mine has a scooter (400cc). I have ridden both. Motorcycles tend to have more power at take off and more weight to control so if you felt comfortable on a motorcycle then you should do fine on a Vespa. I noticed when I rode my friend's scooter it actually took me a few minutes to get used to how easily they maneuver when you don't have to worry about the weight of a motorcycle.

Answer 2

They're so simple to operate and control compared to a motorcycle, it will put a smile on your face.

With the small diameter wheels and inadequate suspension, you'll get bounced around, but it's fun.

Answer 3

No the one big difference is scooters are CVT transmissions.

Answer 4

no

Answer 5

You DROVE a motorcycle, did you?  How interesting.  The rest of us RIDE ours.

Answer 6

A good question and thus far reasonable answers. I happen to own both a full size motorcycle and a scooter. There are in fact a few differences. They are different machines and have different characteristics. The smaller wheel size and weight of the scooter will far outperform in the handling category when it comes  to the local grocery store parking lot. As mentioned by another answerer, Some motorcycles tend to be top heavy, this also plays into the handling of the machine. I use my motorcycle for longer trips. The scoot for beer runs. I enjoy both machines, but simply put, they have different uses.

Answer 7

Hi Morgan M,

You will find that scooters are very similar in driving to motorcycles.  In fact, I would say they are easier, especially if you are getting ones that have a step through frame like the Vespa GT 200cc.  These tend to make for a little easier drive because you have a slightly lower center of gravity.  One adjustment that you will find though is the different tire size.  Scooters usually have slightly smaller tires.  However, there are a number of scooters you can get that are similar in style and tire size to motorcycles so it depends on what you are looking for.  Other than these two distinctions, the driving is pretty much the same.  I think you will find that scooters are great vehicles and going with a name brand like Vespa, is definitely good place to start for your first scooter.

Best,

Kyle Park

http://www.motorized-scooters.net/Gas-Sc...

Answer 8

The sitting position is sure different, One you straddle and the other is like being in a chair. Keeping your legs and feet together in the scooter position is quite a difference to adjust with.  The scooters I have rode have hand brakes and no foot brakes. I have this stupid need to put my foot down on a scooter first and then realize it only has hand brakes. Other then that it's power and torque differences, and with some shifting, if the scooter is a centrifugal clutch there is no shifting, no clutch....Motorcycles are by far more top heavy as well.  I never tried a Vespa and only a few Honda's and Yamaha's though....