It's broken down by state, but some states don't require people to register their scooters if they fall under 50cc; which is why they are offered. They aren't the most efficient engine setup, but they are great urban tool to have in terms of fuel efficiency. However this is on a state-by-state basis, so you'll have to check with your DMV to see where it falls under.
The downside of owning one would be probably top speed; they aren't known for being the fastest thing on the street. Depending on the rider's weight (seriously) you can maybe hit 35 mph, 40 with a windscreen and a good tailwind. It would be a good urban vehicle, but there's no way you're going from Orange County up to Roland Heights on one unless you take a bunch of back streets and take like 3 hours. But if you go to work 15 blocks away via city streets and you don't like walking, it works. I guess the other downside would be if you cared about what other people thought of you on the scooter; you won't get too positive of a response, especially from "proper motorcycle" riders. Just laugh as they lay down their bike at 60mph on the freeway and they didn't wear their gear.
Going to a 250cc will require registration, insurance, riding gear, and probably training classes so you can pass the license test. Not to mention a lot more space to get into trouble. That and fucking retards that like to do handstands / wheelies / stoppies on the freeways are always riding Kawasaki Ninjas and wrecking them, so be weary of used ones.
Vespas are freaking overpriced because they are Vespas. Maybe look into a Honda Metropolitan? Brand new they are only $2,100. |