INTRODUCTION
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This website specializes in modern and the latest 4-stroke motorscooter models in the 50cc, 90cc, 125cc & 150cc range only. I have been made aware of the fact that the 50cc size motorscooter is not really practical for use in most of our modern traffic situations or road conditions. I have been told by dealers that the small 50cc motorscooter is good for use on "secondary roads or streets" only or areas of low or no traffic. I have seen some people using Honda 90cc Motorscooters on city main streets. Freeway use requires by law at least 250cc engine or bigger in California. My main interest is in the size range between 90cc up to about 200cc. Bigger than this it seems better to just buy a motorcycle. Also, i am limiting my content to motorscooter brands that are generally more accessible nationwide and worldwide.
ABOUT 50cc ENGINE MOTORSCOOTERS
Lately i have noticed more people driving motor scooters around town. It seems that these people using 50cc motor scooters are driving them like many people would a bicycle. They all drive on the far right along the curb going with the flow of traffic; meaning they do not assert their right of way in the center of the road or left or right tire track. One couple i know drive all over town this way using those little 50cc Motobecane moped type scooters. When you do this you have to be very careful at intersections especially. Vehicles making a right hand turn could turn right into you if you are not situated properly. So be careful out there. I had forgot that a long time ago in the 1960's me and another guy rode a 50cc Yamaha from San Bernardino California to the beach at Santa Monica and back with both of us on one motorcycle. But life was a little kinder then and the traffic was not as bad as it is nowadays. And there was a non-freeway road clear to the coast then (i think it was called Foothill Drive but not sure).
VESPA SCOOTERS
It seems that Vespa is the standard of the industry. They are priced higher than most motorscooter brands.
- VESPA LX 50 This model has a 50cc engine and comes in a number of different colors.
- VESPA LX 150 This LX model with a 150cc motor has a top speed of about 70 mph someone said. Website says 59 MPH "cruising speed" i guess. "The LX 150 lets you do an impressive highway like 59 mph to get you where you want to go, fast".
- VESPA GRANTURISMO 200 This model is a 4-stroke 4-valve 200cc liquid-cooled engine.
- VESPA GTS 250 This is Vespa's 250cc model.
HONDA SCOOTERS
- METROPOLITAN Click here to view the new 2008 Metropolitan 49cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke motorscooter.
- ELITE 80
Click here to view the new 2008 Elite 80 air-cooled 4-stroke 80cc motorscooter. Honda has excellent quality and a good dealer network.
YAMAHA SCOOTERS
- C3 2008 49cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke motorscooter. Maximum speed at around 35-40 MPH.
- ZUMA 2008 49cc air-cooled 2-stroke motorscooter. Maximum speed at around 35-40 MPH.
- VINO CLASSIC 2008 49cc liquid/air-cooled 4-stroke motorscooter. Maximum speed at around 35-40 MPH.
- VINO 125 2008 124cc air-cooled 4-stroke motorscooter. Maximum speed (as advertised) is approximately 55-60mph.
Good dealer network
SCHWINN SCOOTERS
- CAMPUS
This model...
- HOPE This model...
- COLLEGIATE This model...
- SPORT This model...
- GRADUATE This model...
- GRADUATE 150 This model...
- SPORT LX 150 This model...
APRILIA SCOOTERS
They sell three models here in the US that i can find. This scooter appears to be California legal as they have a network of California distributors. Looks to be well made - quality item.
- SR 50 Most newer scooters use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
- MOJITO 150 Most newer scooters use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
- SPORTCITY 250 Most newer scooters use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
ARGO SCOOTERS
- All Argo scooters are completely compliant with all EPA & CARB emission standards and DOT safety requirements!
TANK SCOOTERS
Tank scooters are manufactured in China and i have read a number of good reports about them.
TANK Motorscooters are street legal in California and all other states.
- Urban Sporty 150cc Motorscooter.
- Classic 150cc Motorscooter max load 330 lbs.
- Tank Scooter This model...
PIAGGIO MOTORSCOOTERS
- FLY50/150 "The Fly now comes in two engine sizes, 50cc and 150cc, offering riders two reliable options that are great for everyday use. Modern, functional, and elegantly crafted, both share superior performance, modern Italian styling, and comfort. Technologically advanced, the Fly inherits Piaggio's tradition of combining safety, reliability, and practicality with an eye-catching design. Light, compact, and agile, the Fly is easy to use, simple to park, and offers excellent power-to-weight ratio for enhanced performance. The 12" wheels and large, tubeless tires also contribute to greater stability and agility in traffic, and the low seat is perfect for riders of all heights. Environmentally-friendly single cylinder, four-stroke engine, Low seat (30.9") suitable for riders of all heights. Low, wide wheels (12") for stability and safety. Automatic transmission and electric start (50cc model also includes emergency kick starter). Underseat storage for full size helmet. Glove and cell phone compartment. Electronic Immobilizer system (Fly 150 only)".
- TYPHOON "The MOTORSCOOTER is an ideal solution for many situations.
MOTORSCOOTER PART SOURCES
- MOTORSPORT SCOOTERS Nice website. Located in San Diego California. A source of Yamaha, Vespa, Honda, Kymco, Derbi, Aprilia, Piaggio, & Bajaj scooter parts.
BAJAJ SCOOTERS
With the ever-increasing number of scooters coming to America, the Bajaj Legend and Chetak scooters hold a unique position; they are the modern scooters available with 4 speed manual shift transmissions. While the rest of the pack is taking the "twist and go" route, we have a scooter that challenges our skills and rewards us with absolute control over shifting and a well-deserved sense of accomplishment.
GENUINE SCOOTER COMPANY
This company has dealers in California. So i guess the scooters meet California standards.
- BLACK CAT The motorscooter of the year.
- BLUR The motorscooter of the year.
- BUDDY SCOOTER Engine 50cc 2-Stroke, Air-Cooled, or 125cc 4-stroke, Air-Cooled.
• Transmission Automatic (CVT)
• Colors Black/Silver, Sunset Orange, Pink and Cream
• Suspension Telescopic Front Fork, Mono Rear
• Tire Size 90/90 - 10 (50cc), 3.5 x 10 (125cc)
• Braking Front Disc, Rear Drum
• Top Speed 30 mph (50cc, restricted), 65+ mph (125cc)
• Warranty 2-Year / Unlimited Mile.
• M.S.R.P. $1,899 (50cc), $2,599 (125cc), $2,699 (125cc Italia).
• MSRP does not reflect destination or other dealer vehicle preparation charges.
- RATTLER 50 The motorscooter of the year.
- STELLA The motorscooter of the year.
KYMCO SCOOTERS
They have lots of California dealers. "Kymco scooters all feature automatic transmissions and are available in a wide range of engine sizes and styles. Kymco scooters average between 70 and 100 miles per gallon and have top speeds ranging from 45mph (50cc) to 75+ mph (250cc). They come with a 2-year warranty and have an excellent build quality".
- KYMCO's Agility 125 is a quality, low-priced scooter that is unmatched in the industry. With its new smooth, quiet 4-stroke 125cc engine, CVT automatic transmission, front disc brake, low seat height and short wheelbase the Agility 125 has universal rider appeal. A suitable big brother to the Agility 50 model, this is a nimble little scooter popular with something to please just about everybody.
• 125cc, 4-Stroke Engine
• Speedometer, Odometer and Fuel Gauge
• Under Seat Storage & Helmet Hook
• Two Year Limited Factory Warranty
SCOOTER TRAILER SOURCES & IDEAS
This section features sources for small utility trailers that can be attached to the rear of your motorscooter and pulled behind. Great for grocery runs and other small light loads.
- SINGLE WHEEL This website was sent to me by a man named "Roger" and i appreciate it because it helps solve a problem most scooter operators have and that is making enough room to haul small amounts of groceries or whatever. This website is a catalog of single-wheeled trailers and has a section for "Scooter and Motorcycle Trailers" on the left side of the page, scroll down to view. There are a lot of ideas on this website that could be used by someone wanting to build their own scooter trailer. Might even be a good business idea.
MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS OFFERING NATIONWIDE SERVICE
This section features motorcycle accident attorneys which hopefully offer cross-over service to our specialty vehicle called a motorscooter.
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ONLINE LAWYER SOURCE
Services offered nationwide. "Find an Attorney by state & Research legal topics".
- RUSS BROWN Services offered nationwide. "Call us at 1-800-4-BIKERS anytime to get your free BAM card"!
- THE MOTORCYCLE LAWYER Services offered nationwide. "1-877-Biker-Law (1-877-245-3752)"
- RICHARD M. LESTER Services offered nationwide. Also has a page for "Aim Attorneys and Motorcycle Laws by State"
- MOTORCYCLE INJURY LAWFIRMS Services offered nationwide.
- GANCEDO & NIEVES Specializing in Motorcycle Accident Cases Nationwide. For a free consultation call now toll free 1800-992-9253.
- THE MOTORCYCLE LAWYER Services offered nationwide.
- LAWCORE Services offered nationwide. Use this site to find a local attorney in your state.
- BUTLER, WOOTEN, & FRYHOFER "Call us toll free at 1.800.242.2962 for a free consultation to discuss your motorcycle accident claim with a nationally recognized lawyer. Our lawyers have handled accident and defective product claims nationwide, including Alabama, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia and Wyoming".
MOTORSCOOTER INSURANCE COMPANIES
All the following Motorcycle Insurance Companies issue insurance on a nationwide (all 50 states) basis or at least that is my intention in listing them here.
- GEICO Nationwide source for motorscooter insurance.
- PROGRESSIVE Popular nationwide source of insurance for motorscooters.
- ESURANCE Nationwide source for motorscooter insurance.
- FOREMOST Nationwide source for motorscooter insurance.
- ALLSTATE Popular nationwide source of insurance for motorscooters.
- NATIONWIDE Popular nationwide source of insurance for motorscooters.
- AARP In the past i have really got some low insurance rate quotes from this organization. I think if you are over 55 years old you qualify to join.
- UNITED MARINE Insurance for motorscooters.
- MARKEL AMERICAN INSURANCE Insurance for motorscooters.
- USAA They sell motorcycle insurance. "USAA General Agency has You Covered. Whether your bike is a cruiser, street bike or a moped, USAA's General Agency can provide insurance coverage for your specific needs, with policy options including: Liability, comprehensive, collision and theft coverage. Custom parts and equipment up to $30,000. Coverage for safety riding apparel, like helmets. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Medical payments. 24-hour claims service and roadside assistance. Transport Trailer Physical Damage Coverage up to $10,000. Insurers with the General Agency are carefully evaluated to meet the USAA level of service and must continually meet our standards. Four Season Pricing: Your policy is priced to reflect the length of the typical riding season in each state, yet you have the twelve full months of coverage each year. Discounts: You may qualify for a Safety Course Discount of 5% if you have passed an approved safety course in the last three years. You can receive additional discounts if you insure multiple motorcycles under the same policy. So if you were born to ride, let us protect your ride. To get a quote call 1-800-531-8444.
- AIS INSURANCE This is a California based company but they claim to service all 50 states. "Our National Personal Lines unit can take care of your insurance needs nationwide. Please call 877-461-2436 for a quote".
- MOTORCYCLE RIDERS ASSOCIATION The MRA (Motorcycle Riders Association) is an organization specializing in insurance, training schools, and events.
- STATE FARM Yes, they sell motorcycle insurance. However, i believe you have to buy the insurance through a local State Farm agent.
- SENTRY INSURANCE They sell motorcycle insurance. Look at drop-down box.
MOTORSCOOTER SPARKPLUG SOURCES
- CLUBPLUG This is a good site for online purchase of spark plugs for your motorscooter.
- NGK You can order spark plugs for your motorscooter here.
- AMAZON.COM You can buy spark plugs on Amazon.com for your motorscooter.
- SPARKPLUGS.COM You can buy spark plugs for your motorscooter here.
- NGK SPARK PLUGS #CR7EIX Yamaha Vino 125 motorscooter.
MOTORSCOOTER SPRAY PAINT
There are at least four large manufacturers of spray paint which can be used on motorscooter bodies. Also possible to buy matching paint from your scooter manufacturer.
- KRYLON PAINT COMPANY
- RUST-OLEUM BRANDS PAINT COMPANY
- PLASTI-KOTE
- ZYNOLYTE
MOTORSCOOTER SEAT UPHOLSTERY
- SCOOTER SEAT COVERS
- MOTORSCOOTER "The motorscooter".
MOTORSCOOTER PUBLICATIONS
- SCOOTERFIX
This neat site is a name change for "GirlBike". - SCOOT MAGAZINE
This magazine specializes in the motorscooter market exclusively.
- GIRLBIKE
- MOTORSCOOTER
"The world of motorscooters".
RECOMMENDATIONS
- Use regular 87 octane gas in your scooter unless manufacturer specifies a higher octane.
MOTORSCOOTER CRANKCASE OIL
Preliminary information about oil
1. A general recommendation for scooters would be 10W-40 or 20W-40 for outside temperature up to about 90 degrees F.
2. When outside temperatures get higher, or if you drive long and hard, you should consider 20W-50 oils.
3. The API SJ designation is a minimum standard that oil must meet and is marked on the container of engine oil.
4. API SJ motor oil suitable for use with turbochargers is well suited for Scooter engines. Buy motor oil marked "turbo" or "turbo formula" for high heat applications.
5. "Energy Conserving" oil or "Aftermarket Oil Additives" should not be used with a wet clutch system.
6. "Aftermarket Oil Additives" should not be mixed with quality oils like Motul oil or other quality oils.
7. Do not use oils designated for use in automobiles or trucks in your motorscooter crankcase. Never use regular motor oil in the crankcase because of the wet clutch systems in most motorscooters. Pay the extra cost for proper oil and you will benefit in the long run.
- MOTUL SCOOTER EXPERT 4T OIL Some people really like this oil for their 4-stroke motor. Motul Scooter Expert 4T 10W40 Engine Oil. "The Technosynthèse® formula of this specialized product protects the engine of 4-stroke scooters that run mostly in urban traffic-jams where their full fairing engine covers and the low speed generate high engine temperatures. They need the protection of an extremely efficient, low-wear and low-friction lubricant both to reduce friction-induced overheat and to improve thermal exchange between moving parts and outer casings".
- ROYAL PURPLE
"Max-Cycle® is specifically formulated to significantly improve motorcycle engine (and transmission) performance. It's recommended for use in both air-cooled and liquid-cooled 4-cycle engines and it's compatible with wet-clutch transmissions. Formulated with select synthetic base oils and Royal Purple's proprietary Synerlec® additive technology, Max-Cycle® provides unparalleled film strength that is up to 400 percent stronger than the leading synthetic and mineral oils. Its shear stability and oxidation resistance promote greater performance and protection. Independent Test Lonview Inspection conducted a test to determine if switching to Royal Purple's Max-Cycle® would reduce motorcycle operating temperatures. Conclusion Switching to Max-Cycle® throughout the motorcycle reduced engine operating temperatures from 24 to 44 degrees F. Synerlec® greatly reduces engine wear - including ring, cylinder and bearing wear. It continuously adheres to metal surfaces, even after shutdown, to provide instant protection at startup until a full fluid film can be established. Max-Cycle® exceeds API / JASO new warranty requirements and is compatible with other mineral and synthetic motor oils. No flushing is necessary prior to use. It's available in 10W30, 10W40 and 20W50 viscosities".
- REDLINE SYNTHETIC MOTORCYCLE OIL "As part of Red Line's all-new Powersports line, these High Peformance Motorcycle Oils are fully-synthetic formulas specifically created for the high demands of the latest high-revving four-strokes motocross bikes and ATVs, Sportbikes, and V-Twins. Available in popular viscosities of 10W40, 20W50, and 20W60, these ester-based products contain the anti-wear chemistry demanded by mechanics and enthusiasts. The levels of zinc and phosphorus blended into these lubricants are among the highest in the industry and combine well with Red Line?s chemistry, designed to seal piston rings for more power, fight fuel dilution, extend drain interval and provide stronger film strength over a range of temperature. This oil also features lower levels of friction modifiers for superior wet clutch operation. Excellent thermal stability, oxidation resistance, cleanliness, and ability to lubricate hot metal make Red Line High Performance Motor Oil a superior lubricant. Recommended for JASO MB, API SJ, SG, & SH". About viscosity grade selection: "The proper viscosity grade to use depends on many factors such as ambient temperature, miles on the engine, bearing and piston clearances, and type of service. A general rule of lubrication is to use the lowest viscosity possible which will provide the proper separation of metal. Anything more than this minimum will increase power loss due to friction and will reduce the pumpability of the oil at all temperatures. However, one must consider synthetics differently when determining viscosity requirements. At high speeds, a petroleum 5W30 can appear to be a 15W in the bearings due to the shear stress, yet Red Line 5W30 will actually be an SAE 30 in the bearings. There is a significant difference in lubricating an engine with a 30 compared to a 15W. Red Line Synthetic oil will provide better viscosity protection than the next higher petroleum viscosity grade.
If clearances are tight and very little lugging occurs, then the 5W30 or 10W30 should be adequate. If ambient temperatures will regularly climb above 100°F, then the 10W40 would provide an additional safety margin. If the engine is air-cooled, or if the engine is older and has greater bearing and ring clearances, the 15W50 and 20W50 will develop a thicker oil film. If very low temperatures occur, the lower viscosity grades, (5W30, 10W30, or 10W40) will flow better and lubricate the engine more quickly after start-up". You can purchase this motor oil on Amazon.com.
- AMSOIL CORPORATE WEBSITE "The original synthetic motor oil". They sell an oil specially formulated for motor scooters: "Formula 4-Stroke® 10W-40 Synthetic Scooter Oil (ASO) formulated specifically to meet the special needs of today's high-tech air- and water-cooled 4-stroke motorized scooters. Offers unsurpassed wear protection and friction reduction for longer equipment life and cooler operating temperatures. Exceptional shear stability ensures consistent viscosity protection and provides additional protection for transmissions and gear boxes. Friction modifier-free formulation ensures wet clutch compatibility and smooth clutch operation. Special anti-corrosion additive package provides long-term protection during periods of inactivity and storage".
- CASTROL They sell a "motorcycle" oil which i suppose can be used in your motorscooter. "CASTROL Act-evo 4-Stroke" "Is suitable for all makes of motorcycle 4-stroke engines running on leaded or unleaded fuel". Maybe this would work with most or all motorscooters: CASTROL R4 SUPERBIKE is suitable for all makes of motorcycle 4-stroke engines, running on leaded or unleaded fuel.
Key Benefits:
Full synthetic.
Ideal for highly tuned sports motorcycles ridden hard for extended periods.
Releases additional horsepower and acceleration.
Exceeds API SG, JASO MA. Or maybe: CASTROL GPS is suitable for all types of high performance modern
Key Benefits
A synthetic based oil.
Allows for faster gear changing.
Creates a tough, heat reactive layer of protection.
Exceeds API SG, JASO MA.
- PENNZOIL MOTORCYCLE OIL An SAE 10W40 oil. "Pennzoil® Motorcycle Motor Oil is a premium quality lubricant specially designed to protect motorcycle engines. Meets or exceeds warranty requirements for all 4-stroke motorcycle engines, including BMW, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha, where JASO MA,or API SG or SH is recommended. Outstanding high-rpm, high-temperature protection. Thick and tough oil film to separate metal parts. Friction-fighting additives help minimize engine wear. Exclusive PennzStar molecule gives outstanding protection against viscosity and thermal breakdown. Meets or exceeds the highest gasoline engine protection requirements: JASO MA and API Service SL, SJ, SH. You can buy this oil on Amazon.com. They carry a full line of Pennzoil products.
- BMW MOTORCYCLE OIL "Recommended for all BMW motorcycles after 1970 High performance synthetic provides high load-carrying characteristics, minimum foaming and exceptional resistance to thermal degradation. Exclusive chemistry reduces internal friction and enhances power output under extreme service conditions. 15W50 Engine Oil in 1 quart containers. Super Synthetic Engine Oil (SSEO) has been proven in the lab, over the road, and on the race course to provide maximum wear protection over all thermal regimes. Formulated with a unique combination of scientifically engineered poly olefin and ester based".
- TORCO 4-CYCLE Has several types of oil.
- SPECTRO GOLDEN SCOOTER Spectro Oils has one crankcase oil type designated specifically for motorscooter use: Scooter 4T Synthetic Blend, 4 cycle engine lubricant, SAE 10w40 in a 1 Liter Plastic Bottle.
- MOBIL 1 MOTORCYCLE OIL "Mobil 1 Racing 4T 10W-40 is designed for sport bikes with four-cycle engines. Most of these bikes have multi-cylinder/multi-valve engines and use a common sump, which means the engine oil lubricates the engine, transmission and wet clutch. So unlike Mobil 1 for cars, Mobil 1 Racing 4T 10W-40 has no friction modifiers, which could lead to clutch slippage. The motorcycle oil also has more phosphorus/zinc for enhanced wear protection at high engine speeds and high loads. In addition, Mobil 1 Racing 4T 10W-40 has a high performance dispersant/detergent technology for better high-temperature performance and engine cleanliness. Mobil 1 Racing 4T 10W-40 is also offered in a different viscosity grade than Mobil 1 for passenger cars".
- VALVOLINE 4-STROKE MOTORCYCLE OIL "Valvoline Motorcycle Oils contain proprietary blends of premium base oils and advanced additive technology to help you achieve peak performance from your machine. Both 20W-50 and 10W-40 available at: Auto Zone, Meijer, Murray's and Blains. Motorcycle Oil 4-Stroke 10W-40 also available at Checker, Schuck's and Kragen".
GENERAL INFORMATION
- CARB Approved = California Air Resources Board.
- EPA Approved = Environmental Protection Agency
- DOT Approved = Department of Transportation
- Most newer scooters use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). 150CC Air Cooled 4 Stroke Engine with Fully Automatic CVT Transmission, Electric and Kick Start. Fuel Efficient - 80 to 120 MPG.
- Most scooter wheel sizes range between 8 and 12 inches (20-28 cm) in diameter.
- MOTORSCOOTER Interesting site for motorscooters.
SCOOTER ACCESSORIES
- SCOOTERWORKS USA A motorscooter accessory site with lots of items. "America's leading mail-order specialists".
- MOTORSCOOTER A motorscooter site.
Contact website owner here: Gary Green
Page Last Updated: November 1, 2008
DISCLAIMER
The posting of businesses, organizations, people, links or the opinions of others on this website does not imply endorsement or agreement on my part and are provided for informational purposes only. It is the responsibility of the visitor of this website to approach any listed business or person with the same prudent caution given to any unknown situation. We make no claims as to the integrity or trustworthyness of any business or person listed on this website.
© 2007 Gary Green. All Rights Reserved. No part of this web site including graphics, content, layouts, HTML structure, meta tags or other design features may be reproduced in any form, electronic or otherwise without express written permission from the owner.
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