How to Put Money Down on a Motor Scooter

So, you're ready to become a motorized scooter owner? Congrats! My friends who own scooters tend to talk about them like proud parents, so good times are ahead for you. If you're ready to buy, then chances are you can tell the difference between gas powered and electric scooter models.

At this point, you've also asked some clarifying questions about terrain, speed, and types of use. Now you're wondering what best practices to adopt when you're ready to actually put money down on your scooter. Breathe easy: Every year, thousands of people become happy new scooter owners--and with a little foresight, you'll be one of them. Here's some last minute advice to lead you to a happy purchase.

First, calculate your price range.

Since you're shopping for motor scooters, I'm assuming that you've already crunched some numbers and realized that, aside from how much fun they are to ride, investing in a scooter will save you a heck of a lot of money! So in terms of financial dividends, it's hard to argue against buying a scooter. For example, if your scooter gets 50 mpg--and many new models get upwards of 100 mpg--then saving $100 dollars a month is entirely doable.

However, the speed at which you regain your up front investment depends on whether you buy a gas powered, hybrid, or electric model, and how often you use your scooter. Most likely, the better part of your savings will be kick in after six months to a year, as you capitalize on your scooter's fuel economy. Given all this, decide how much cash you want to put out up front.

If you're shopping in the kids' market, motor scooters will go anywhere between $200 and $400 dollars. In the adult market, the price range broadens a great deal, and you can pay from $900 dollars to over $3000. If you're OK with making your money back gradually, you'll feel good about throwing in the extra $100 for that extra acceleration kick.

Buy quality.

With thousands of scooters selling every day, there are dozens of new companies trying to enter the market. On one hand, this is good, because it causes competition and makes scooters more affordable. The negative is that there are a glut of cheaply made, off-brand scooters that are made with low-quality parts. As with most large purchases, buying at rock bottom prices will usually come back to haunt you--in this case, it would be in the form of safety issues, break downs, and expensive repairs.

So, how do you avoid getting ripped off? Be suspicious of prices that seem too good to be true. Unless sales involve recognized brands, be wary about buying. Look for scooters that have positive reviews online and come with a generous warranty--90 days is standard. Purchase from a vendor, whether online or otherwise, who seems above board. Available customer service is a good sign--make sure to ask any questions you have.

Tracking with me? By budgeting carefully and investing in quality, you'll end up with a motor scooter you love. Who knows, maybe you'll even become a walking testimonial, like some of my friends! Here's hoping it happens to you.