any scooter owner here? pls give me some advices (or post pics if possible)

I'm really interested in buying a small scooter (something cheap, cute, small displacement) for fun (as a toy)
any experience or recommendation?

 

When you say "scooter", you mean those things that don't have footpegs but instead, you put both feet up on sort of "running boards"? I used to ride scooters when I was a kid. They were a lot of fun but had their inherent inadequacies too. And I'm not talking just about lack of power because today's scooters can be quite powerful.
The problem with scooters is the small size of their wheels/tires. This make them quite twitchy in an emergency situation where you must swerve or turn. Where you live, if you must encounter freeways a lot, you might not do so good if you get a very small displacement one. You won't have the power to keep up with traffic. But if you are going to stay in the inner city of Vancouver, you'll be OK. My preference might be to get a small motorcyle - like maybe a 250 cc if you want to stay small. They are better handling and can keep up with traffic better. Also, where you would just sit on top of a scooter, you would "straddle" a motorcycle and can grip the bike with your legs, giving you a bit more security and control.
But then, I'm not you so if you really want a scooter, then go to the major brands - Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki. They all have a scooter that will fit your needs. Check out all their websites.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by xviper
[B]When you say "scooter", you mean those things that don't have footpegs but instead, you put both feet up on sort of "running boards"?

 

Those 250cc ones can run you $3000.-$4000.00 and up. Like I said, check out some Canadian bike sites like Honda or Yamaha to see exact prices. These should be "dealable" right now. If you're any where near Granville Island, go into that Honda place by the entrance to G.I. They're one of the bigger dealers in your town.
From your description of use, a scooter will be fine unless you plan to take it a bit off-road, then go for a small dual purpose bike.
If you're looking for a classic, then try to find a "Vespa". These were and still are very popular in Europe. They have become quite prized here for collectors and scooter enthusiasts. The Vespa had the clutch and gear change all in the same left handle bar control - kinda neat. (Sorry no pic - do an internet search on the name and I'm sure you'll find some.)

 

wow! that's really cool, i'm sure very exciteing about doing the internet search now! I will try the local dealers next week.
thanks, u know vancouver much better than i do~