Should I get a scooter instead of a car?

Question

I'm 16, going to be 17 soon. I found I really do not operating the vehicles my parents own. Both are SUV's. They are too big, and also not environmentally friendly at all. They get about 14 MPG, and my parents don't have the credit to get me a car right now, but they said they'd buy me a scooter. If I borrow their SUV's I'd be spending a fortune on the gas, so I think a scooter is a good idea. I live in New Jersey, outside Philadelphia. We have the worst drivers in the country where I am, so is riding one a suicide mission? I only plan to run errands locally, and ride myself the 4 miles to the animal shelter to volunteer.

Also, I can not get a regular bike because I have joint problems, specifically my knees so I am not able to peddle a bike.

I have my car permit... I guess I need to go apply for a scooter permit?

Just any information would be useful. I was walking around Philadelphia and saw a bunch of people riding them, and they look really neat and useful.

Thanks.

Answer 1

I have the same dilemma as you, except that I'm 74 (don't laugh).  Although I used to ride bulls, motorcycles have alway seemed to dangerous.  I'll be listening for the answers you get.

    thanks for asking,  Jerry

Answer 2

What if it rains?

Answer 3

Scooters require a motorcycle license here in the States. So you will have to get your motorcycle endorsement. The two main things to consider with scooters is how fast will you need to go and what about bad weather. If your roads are all 25 mph then a 50cc engine is fine but if you need to travel up to 55 mph I wouldn't go with anything under 250 cc. This engine size will cost at least 5 grand new, is that cheaper than an okay used sub-compact? The weather is a factor to consider unless you get the new Piaggio MP3, but that's 7 grand brand new. Just some things to think about. I have a scooter (Yamaha vino 125) and love it but I also have a car for really bad days. Let us know what you decide.