What kind of scooter should I buy to save money getting to work?

Question

We live in Michigan, so I understand if it's less than 50cc it doesn't need to be insured and requires a $15 registration sticker that lasts 3 years. What else should we know to help us decide on buying one?

Our budget is probably $1,500 or less. If we could find something used that would be even better.

We don't need any fancy features, just something that can get my husband 9 miles to work. I don't know what brands to look for or avoid, but we don't really need the best to last forever.

Our goal is to save the money on car insurance, registration and maintenance, and also to get much better gas mileage.

Answer 1

I don't know anything about scooters, but I know that here in ohio i have seen lots of bicycles with small motors added to them (to aid in going up a hill? when tired?). If your husband is able to ride a bike that could be a much cheaper option. The guy at the bike shop says it can get 150mpg. I'm not sure how much they charge to install them, maybe about $150-300??

Is your husband able to ride along the side of the road on a bike? Is there a back way?? a bike lane? We live near the university and it seems like EVERYONE has a bike.

Answer 2

Something for under $1500 won't reach speeds higher than maybe 40 or so unless you get a used nicer scooter like a Vespa or a Honda. You are not too likely to find a cheap used scooter because sellers have an opportunity to make more money because scooters are in such high demand now. A dirt bike or pocket bike most likely would not be street legal or safe on the road.

Just scourer the classifieds and see if you can find one.