|
Page 2 of 2 The Vespas are considered the elite in this class of vehicle, having a broad range of styles to choose from, modern, vintage and retro-modern. They have also introduced a more powerful, touring series of vehicles that compete with the Honda touring models, though the largest engine displacement is 200/250cc as opposed to 600cc+ models that Honda offers; Piaggio, the parent company offers a 480cc maxi-scooter for a little less than $6,300 US. The Vespas represent the epitome of style, and the Piaggio models available have more of a modern look. The prices range in the Vespa line from $3,000 at 49cc to $6,000 at 200cc. The Piaggio line begins more modestly at just over $1,000 for the 49cc model ranging up to $6,500 for the deluxe touring model, the X9. These are the most sought after motor scooters, and it's for a good reason. They look great, perform wonderfully and they are well-made. The Honda line of the Metropolitan has become somewhat popular in recent years, and the introduction of the Ruckus model, a slightly heavier duty bike, rounds out a solid middle platform between the 49cc Metropolitan and their touring series, the Reflex and Silver Wing models. They also have an 80cc 4-stroke model, the Elite 80. Honda has a reputation for reliability, and their scooters are arguably better looking than the plethora of cheaply made Chinese bikes. They aren't known for their power, and they are a far cry from the Vespas. They are, however, similarly priced, ranging from $1,900 up to $8,500 for the 582cc liquid-cooled ABS model of the Silver Wing. There is one other manufacturer worth mentioning, Bajaj. For a time Bajaj made scooters for Vespa/Piaggio in the USA. The Indian auto and motorcycle manufacturer came into being in 1946, so they've been around and they have 40 years of scooter manufacturing experience. The point best made- if Vespa trusted them to make their bikes, then that says something pretty good about the company. The Bajaj Chetak 150cc gas scooter has the highest tested mpg of any 150cc scooter at 110 mpg,independently tested, which is a huge plus. Also, their scooters have a 2 year warranty as opposed to Vespa's 1 year limited warranty. The Chetak model comes with a full spare that is either attached to the back or stored under the wheel well on the opposite side of the bike from the engine. 2006 was the last production year for this scooter for US distribution. The Argo 150 is their new release, which is manufactured in part by other companies. It is an automatic as opposed to the manual transmission of the Chetak. MPG ratings are not currently listed for the Argo 150 on the bajajusa.com site. The Chetak is priced at around $3,000, and the Argo 150 is slightly cheaper at $2,500. If you want to compare it to the Vespas, the most similar bike is the PX 150, which is priced at $4,200-$4,800(limited edition). Research your scooters thoroughly before buying, and it's always best to sit and, if possible, to test drive your potential bike before shelling out the dough. An important note is that you do not need a motorcycle license for 50cc moped/scooters in most states, but states vary for bikes over 80-150cc. Search terms: gas scooter, Vespa, Piaggio, Honda Scooter, Bajaj scooter, Argo USA Happy hunting!
<< Start < Prev 1 2 Next > End >>
|
