20 best scooters

Tired of moving around, constantly sweating and pedaling? No money for a car? Is there constant traffic jams in the city that make it so difficult to get to work? Do you want new driving sensations? If you answered yes to at least one question, then you should think about purchasing a scooter.

What is a scooter? Which ones are produced and how to choose the right one? What are the best scooters available in the market? It's time to stop asking questions and look for answers - this article answers your question.

Main types of scooters by purpose:

Urban

Such solutions are suitable for leisurely driving, within 50-55 km/h, on city streets, including those where the car cannot fit due to its dimensions. For most models, the engine capacity is no more than 50 cm3: this is not enough for fast acceleration. The diameter of the front wheel is 100-120 mm, the rear wheel is 120-130 mm. These scooters have a narrow profile that is not suitable for rough terrain. At the same time, they are equipped with both front and rear brakes, which allows you to avoid the wheel lifting off the ground during a sudden stop.

The main features of such solutions are compactness, light weight and small wheel diameter. Almost all models are distinguished by a comfortable fit (for which they are popularly called “stool”), which does not involve throwing your leg over the frame. At the same time, a city scooter does not have space for storing a large number of things and is inconvenient when riding long distances. If necessary, special cases can be hung on it.

Off-road

The main feature of such a unit is the reinforced suspension and wide wheel profile, which allows it to overcome significant obstacles, including mud and muddy roads. This is an excellent solution for a dacha or village: much better than a bicycle, more economical and cheaper than an ATV, and simpler than a car. The device must have a high-speed engine, which will allow it to move forward without unnecessary problems.

Honda and Yamaha have such models; Benelli stands out among European manufacturers. Traveling through city streets will be quite difficult, given the high engine power and special tires. But if desired, the wheels can be replaced, and this will turn the model into a good alternative to a car.

Sports

This type of scooter is very similar to a motorcycle, although it is less complicated to control. Most models are characterized by manual gear shifting, quick acceleration, and engine location at the front of the vehicle. This scooter obeys the driver well and turns smoothly, but requires certain control skills.

Sports models have an excellent appearance, and most users will not distinguish them from a motorcycle. However, fuel consumption is also high, because the engines demonstrate excellent speed characteristics. This is an ideal option for young people who want to impress others, but do not have enough money and experience for a motorcycle.

Tourist

The key feature of the models is increased seating comfort, additional space for storing and transporting things. The wheels have a large diameter, which helps the mini-bike cover significant distances. This is an excellent solution for traveling in the countries of the European Union, where the road surface allows you to reach significant speeds. At the same time, traveling on tourist scooters in Russia remains dangerous due to the unsuitability of our highways for this type of transport.

Types of scooters

Depending on what purpose and for whom specifically (teenager or elderly person, man or woman) you choose a scooter, you need to pay attention to the following categories of two-wheeled vehicles:

A mini scooter is characterized by small wheels (eight inches in diameter) and low weight (from 50 to 70 kg). Suitable for city travel, not exceeding a speed of 50 km/h. And thanks to its miniature size, it can even be lifted into an apartment in a regular passenger elevator.
The average scooter is the most versatile. It is suitable for movement both around the city and on country roads. Its wheels are 12 inches in diameter and its more powerful engine can reach speeds of up to 90 km/h.
A heavy (maxi) scooter is the most powerful “horse”; it can reach speeds of up to 120 km/h and is perfect for long trips.

Scooter comparison table

Type of scooter	Peculiarities	Advantages	Models
Urban	Models have small wheel diameters and are designed for driving on flat roads	Compact, low fuel consumption, automatic transmission, good cornering control	Yamaha Cygnus, Yamaha WHY 50, SYM Orbit 50, Piaggio Fly 50 4V, Italjet SX1
Off-road	Motor scooters are equipped with wide-profile tires and a reinforced engine, but are not designed for fast driving.	The scooter can easily cross rough terrain and is not afraid of dirt or melted snow.	Hyosung SF 50 Rally, Yamaha TTX 115i Adventure, Hyosung sf 50, Honda Zoomer AF58, Yamaha Zuma 125
Sports	The scooter is designed for quick acceleration and maneuvering; some models have a manual transmission and reinforced suspension	Good handling, cornering control, high engine power	Yamaha AEROX R, Kawasaki Ninja 250R, Gilera Nexus 500, Honda NSC50R, Suzuki Burgman 400, Honda SH 150i Sport
Tourist	The mini-bike is equipped with space for storing things needed on the road, and its shape allows for high comfort on the road	Reliability, large wheel diameter, ability to reach high speeds	Aprilia SR Max, Honda Lead AF48, Honda DIO AF 28 SR, Daelim S2-250

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Specifications

The front fork of a scooter is an important factor when choosing a scooter. It can be of three types - telescopic, pendulum, lever. The telescopic fork can be considered the most modern, but it is also more convenient than others during city trips. However, to travel on country roads and rough terrain, choose a scooter with a pendulum fork, which is not so sensitive to potholes and better absorbs on uneven surfaces.

When choosing a scooter for an elderly person, a novice driver, a teenager or a woman, it is important that the device is low-power (no more than 3 horsepower) so that the person can handle the machine. Moreover, such a scooter can easily carry two people at a speed of 50 km/h. Also, for the above drivers, it is better to opt for a scooter with a lever fork, which provides maximum convenience and safety in driving the scooter.

When choosing a scooter for a teenager, do not forget that a license to drive a vehicle must be purchased when using a 50 cc engine. see. Japanese manufacturers equip their scooters with an engine of this size. European models have larger engines of 75, 125, 150, 180, 250 and even 500 cc. Chinese twenty-five cc engines are exactly what will suit your teenager. In addition, it is very economical. But if you buy a scooter for traveling around the city, remember that this power is negligible for constant city travel.

ADVICE:

A scooter's engine can be two-stroke or four-stroke . The “advantages” of a two-stroke engine undoubtedly include high power density, simplicity and lightness of design. At the same time, it can always be “upgraded” to more cubes. The advantages of a four-stroke engine include smooth traction at low speed, quiet operation, lower gasoline consumption and oil, which is changed only during maintenance, while a two-stroke engine consumes oil constantly.

Power. If a scooter becomes your daily vehicle, then it is better to choose an engine with at least 7 horsepower. You will spend no more than three liters of fuel per hundred kilometers. The power guarantees good maneuverability, which is very convenient in city driving conditions.

The transmission of modern scooters comes in several types:

The most common option is a single-speed transmission, which is easy to use.
The most modern and reliable option is a V-belt variator, the advantages of which are uniform and powerful acceleration and a confident start.
Semi-automatic (semi-automatic transmission) is characterized by gear shifting using a foot lever. And perfect for novice drivers.

Types of scooters by engine size:

Up to 50 cm3. These scooters are very easy to operate, but the maximum speed, as a rule, does not exceed 50 km/h. This problem can be solved by boosting the engine, but this is not an easy task, and even dangerous for the engine. Moreover, it is easier to “pump up” popular models: there are step-by-step recommendations, as well as repair kits that can improve the characteristics of the unit. However, the acceleration speed leaves much to be desired even after boosting the engine.
51-125 cm3. Classic city scooters of this type are good for their maneuverability and affordable price. Such solutions are available from all manufacturers and are highly popular in Russia.
126-250 cm3. Sports scooters will appeal to young fans of speed. They have good driving performance, are easy to maintain and durable.
Over 251 m3. Maxi-scooters can compete with motorcycles and are of interest to fans of racing vehicles. They demonstrate rapid acceleration to the required speed, good handling and stability.

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Analogues - engine 1P39QMB

Chinese developers have created an analogue of the Japanese 139QMB engine - a motor labeled 1P39QMB, which in appearance completely replicates the original. Despite all the similarities, you can still find differences: the valve clearances on the 1P39QMB are not adjustable. The situation is similar with the carburetor: before direct operation it requires thorough cleaning and correct adjustment. Chinese copies of 139QMB engines, of course, cope with their task, but their main purpose was to reduce the final cost of motor vehicles. Budget versions of scooters are equipped with exactly the same versions of engines that are good only for short trips at low speeds.

Before starting operation, be sure to carry out a full run-in of the 1P39QMB engine. The optimal operating mode of the engine begins only after 2 thousand kilometers, but after 10 thousand kilometers all its technical characteristics drop, and it loses dynamics and power.

Two-stroke or four-stroke engine?

Like any other vehicle, the performance of a scooter is more than half determined by its engine. If the engine can withstand significant loads and is easy to maintain, then the scooter can be forgiven for its unsightly appearance and other shortcomings. The most convenient and economical is the two-stroke air-cooled engine. It can be improved, improved, while being fed with the lowest quality fuel.

However, in Europe and Japan, these engines were replaced by four-stroke liquid-cooled engines - more environmentally friendly and sophisticated. They form the main part of the market, which is due to requirements in the field of environmental legislation. At the same time, the two-stroke engine is very good and requires minimal maintenance, so if there is a used or new scooter for sale with such an engine, its purchase will also be justified.

Job resource

The four-stroke engine is a priori a more advanced system, therefore it is considered more reliable, which has been confirmed in practice. This unit has a modern oil supply system by spraying or supplying under pressure, which provides better lubrication when every part is literally “bathed” in it. And the complex design of the engine in this case is also “on hand”, it allows you to more evenly distribute and, accordingly, reduce the load on its individual elements. Ultimately, this helps to increase the service life.

Which fuel system is better?

Most often in the column “fuel system” and “carburetor”. The second option is undoubtedly more suitable for Russian conditions. Engines equipped with such a fuel system respond well to poor fuel, are easy to repair, but are less reliable. The direct injection system is more economical and reduces harmful emissions into the environment.

However, their design is complex, which affects the overall price of the product. In addition, not all gas stations offer gasoline of normal quality: you will have to monitor the condition of the engine and be sensitive to any nuances in its operation. To be fair, it should be said that the vast majority of modern scooters on sale operate on a direct injection system.

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Giants for big guys

Maxi is a scooter size for true connoisseurs. Many models implement a new structure system - a separate movable lever attached to a stationary engine and gearbox. This system gives stability, rigidity and reliability to the scooter.

Once again Honda showed everyone how to make maxi scooters. Honda Silverwing is a huge monster, equipped with a 2-cylinder in-line engine, the displacement of which is as much as 600 cubic meters! Some parts are similar to motorcycle ones. Among other things, we can highlight the presence of ABS:

Scooter Honda Silverwing

The Yamaha T-max stands out among its competitors. Also a strong monster, hiding 500 cubic centimeters. The engine is located in front of the driver, rather than on the rear wheel as usual. From a powerful variator, torque is transmitted to the rear wheel by a chain drive. The tubular frame is connected to the wheels via a rear shock absorber and a front telescopic fork. Thanks to the design (and not only) it is recognized as one of the best maxi scooters!

Yamaha Tmax

And here comes the Piaggio Beverly 500 - a powerful and reliable maxi-scooter of the Gran Turismo class. Belonging to a class indicates its mandatory comfort. This is confirmed not only by soft seats, but also by large wheels, two rear shock absorbers, and Kayaba front forks. The 3-disc disc brake system will ensure soft and timely braking of this large device. The package even includes an immobilizer and a mobile phone charger.

Scooter Piaggio Beverly

There are countless scooter models. And every day more and more new scooters appear that can win the attention and recognition of buyers. This article reviewed only some of the best scooters, the best quality and pricing.

Other useful tips for choosing and operating a scooter:

Please note that to drive a scooter with an engine capacity of up to 50 cm3 in Russia, since November 2013, you need a driver's license of category M, over 50 cm3 - category A1. At the same time, the minimum age at which a driver is allowed to drive is 16 years. Accordingly, the person driving the scooter is subject to all traffic rules, including the need to drive sober.
When choosing a scooter, make sure that it is the right size for you. Some compact models may be inconvenient for riding, because it will be very difficult to adjust the chair to your anatomical parameters.
The volume of the gas tank is very important: scooter drivers often forget to refuel their vehicles, so the tank must be spacious.
Among European manufacturers, the products of such brands as Aprilia (racing models), Piaggio, Gilera, Benelli (good off-road scooters), Peugeot deserve special praise.

What else is important to know when choosing

Price. Buying a model equipped with a 2-stroke engine will a priori cost less than a bike with a 4-stroke engine. And often the money issue is the determining factor in the purchase.
Power. A scooter with a two-stroke engine is approximately 60–70% more powerful than a four-stroke engine. This, again, is due to the fact that in such a system all work processes occur faster.
Service. Two-stroke engines require regular monitoring of the oil level and changing it more often. They also produce more smoke during operation, so you will need to clean the exhaust muffler more often.
Repair. Carrying out repair work on a four-stroke engine will be somewhat more difficult, and it will cost more than repairing and replacing parts on a two-stroke engine.
Noise. Here the scooter with a 4-stroke engine wins an uncompromising “victory”. A scooter with a two-stroke engine is objectively noisier.
Environmental friendliness. Four-stroke engines produce cleaner emissions from an environmental point of view. A timely moment for those who care about the environment.

The catalog of the Sport-Extreme online store includes scooters from Motoland, Racer, Yamaha and other brands. The product comes with a manufacturer's warranty, and there is a delivery service within the Russian Federation.

The specialists of the motorboat center will help you choose the models that suit your goals and expectations.

To get detailed advice on availability, prices and characteristics, just call +7 (4822) 65-65-03.

TheDifference.ru knows how to choose a scooter:

For what purpose is a scooter needed? For most city residents, the traditional version with an engine up to 50 cm3 is suitable: compact, lightweight (up to 60 kg), convenient. If it breaks down on the road, you can call not a tow truck, but a friend in a minibus or even a passenger car in the back of a station wagon. To ride over rough terrain, you need a scooter with reinforced studded tires and a powerful engine. And for travel there are real touring mini-bikes: with a comfortable seat and additional compartments for things. Fans of fast travel will like sports scooters, which in their speed characteristics are not much inferior to motorcycles.
How many people will travel on a scooter? Please note that there are few two-seater models and most scooters are designed for driver only. If you have a passenger traveling with you, a separate seat should be provided for him. Do not forget about the engine power: it should not be subjected to excessive loads.
Do you have skills in servicing motorcycles? Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha are considered the most reliable solutions. European alternatives from popular car brands are distinguished by complex technical “filling”, heavy weight and high price. Chinese scooters are best purchased by those who are familiar with the design of mini-bikes and are able to fix certain breakdowns.
What is the condition of the road surface in the city? Units from European and Japanese manufacturers do not withstand driving over potholes and potholes. In addition, their repair will be very expensive and will make riding a scooter impractical. Chinese and Russian scooters withstand bad roads better, and their maintenance is much cheaper.
What are your riding habits? On a scooter you need to move so as not to interfere with the main flow, so rapid acceleration to 60 km/h can be very useful for lovers of high speeds. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, then engine size does not matter much.
What is your purchasing budget? Of course, it is better to buy new things. But if you don’t have enough money for such a scooter, then you can buy a used scooter. You should not compare the mileage of a mini-bike with a car: a rare two-wheeled friend is capable of traveling 15 thousand kilometers or more without major engine repairs.
Do you need additional body kit? In addition to the windshield, the scooter can be equipped with a case, additional protection, and storage capacity. However, pay attention to these details last: there are no problems in installing additional equipment, lights, mirrors, etc. on one's own. It is very good if the scooter has a heated seat: this will make its use more comfortable in the off-season.

Where can I find the scooter frame number?

First you need to decide why you need the scooter frame number. Usually they look for it in the hope of establishing the year of manufacture of the scooter (if it was not possible to determine the engine number), if there are doubts about its age, and, consequently, mileage.

Naturally, the frame number may be in different places on different scooters. But, as a rule, you should look for the frame number either under the steering wheel on the driver’s side (in this case it can be hidden by a special flap or cover), or on the very bottom of the frame - in the sill (there is a special window there).

If we consider specific brands of scooters, the location of the frame numbers also varies. For example, the frame number of Suzuki scooters is usually marked on the fin, that is, on the very bottom of the scooter frame

However, it is worth paying attention to the fact that the location of the code is different on different models of Suzuki scooters. If we talk about Honda scooters, the frame number on them is usually located in the box under the plastic cover

Another option for marking the frame number on Honda scooters is a special window on the left side of the plastic threshold of the scooter. On Yamaha scooters, the frame number is located on the bottom of the frame itself, that is, to identify it, you need to lay the scooter on its side. Also, the frame number on Yamaha scooters may be located under the ignition switch cell - you just need to remove the small plastic plug to see it.

If we talk about the location of the frame number on European-made scooters, then you can almost always find it under the footrest - you just need to bend the plastic a little. However, it all depends on the specific model.

The location of the frame number on Chinese scooters may be in different places on the scooter, but in general it almost completely repeats the placement on Japanese and European models.

So, no matter what model of scooter you come across, you can find the frame number in several places:

— The lower part of the frame (in the floor, under the step, on the side of the sill) - In the area of the ignition switch cell - On the steering fork

— Under the seat in the luggage compartment

You can also learn how to determine the year of manufacture of a scooter from the corresponding article on our website.

scooterjp.ru

Updated 12/01/2009 17:02