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Chapter 9: Where to Buy a Moped

If you envision a moped or motor scooter, you are probably thinking of a Vespa. This enormously popular brand has been widely used worldwide for decades. It was greatly popularized in the United States during the 1970s gas shortage. Many people have found that even in times of cheaper and more abundant gasoline, the economics and convenience of riding a Vespa combined with its sleek, stylish appearance make it the perfect vehicle for short distances, especially within the city.

Vespa is owned by Piaggio, perhaps the largest manufacturer of motor scooters in the world. In addition to their traditional two-wheeled models, Piaggio also offers a variety of three-wheeled motor scooters. These models have two front wheels, located very close together, which lend dramatically increased stability, road grip and safety over the two-wheeled models. These models are also much more expensive. As with the two-wheeled models, different maximum speeds also correlate with different traffic restrictions in different states.

The Piaggio and Vespa brand names are the gold standard for motor scooters. The name is synonymous with style and reliability. This reputation has also earned relatively high price tags for Piaggio and Vespa versus comparable models carrying other brand names. For a less expensive alternative, many manufacturers of cars or motorcycles also offer several models of motor scooter that can be just as dependable as the Vespa.

Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki are other well-trusted names when it comes to motor scooters. These models are extremely reliable and can be very inexpensive. Other manufacturers include Road Runner, Peace, Jonway and Moto Bravo.

To shop for a new scooter, it is a good idea to consult your local car and motorcycle dealerships as well as the internet. You may find your scooter or moped of choice at a local motorcycle or motor sports dealership. This option permits the buyer to negotiate price and financing on a one-on-one level in person, to test ride the exact vehicle of choice, and to ride away with it. On the other hand, one can avoid the time and hassle of a dealership by shopping online. There are many online motor scooter and moped dealerships from which one can choose their model, color, features, and accessories, pay online and then wait for the shipment to arrive. While there are no negotiations and haggling involved with this approach, a savvy negotiator may be able to obtain a better deal in person.

When searching online for a scooter, there are three main searches one should do. The first is a local search for motorcycle and motor sports dealerships, such as a Google search for �San Diego motorcycle dealership.� This type of search will lead you to physical locales nearby where you can go and negotiate in person. The second is a general search for �mopeds� or �motor scooters�. This search will lead to a variety of online and in-store dealerships, and you may be able to find a model online at a great discount. Third, consult specific manufacturer�s websites such as Honda or Yamaha. This type of search permits the selection of a model of choice, but prices might be higher than one can find at a discount store online. Be sure to determine exactly what type of warranty comes with your scooter of choice before making any purchase.

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