How to choose a 50cc, 125cc or 150cc scooter?

Should I choose a 50cc or 125cc scooter?

Motor Scooters are usually offered by manufactures in three engine sizes: 50cc; 150cc; and 250cc (“cc” stands for “cubic centimeters"). Some scooter manufactures have other engine sizes like 125cc, or more than 250cc (which are sometimes called “Maxi-scoots”). But to keep things simple, by discussing the basic three sizes (50cc, 150cc, and 250cc) we can set a framework to help determine how big of an engine you need. 

The size of the scooter’s engine will determine how fast your scooter can go. So your choice of engine size should be based on how fast you need to drive. 

50cc – 50cc scooters are restricted to 30 miles per hour. This is ideal for short journeys, nipping around town, getting into central London. The minimum age requirement is 16. 50cc scooters typically have a maximum speed of 35 to 40 miles per hour (heavier riders will likely experience a lower top speed). If you will only be using the scooter to drive on roads that are 40 MPH or less, a 50cc scooter will give you the best gas mileage, sometimes more than 100 MPH. A 50cc scooter comes from the factory restricted to 30 mph. If you are 17 or over with a full bike licence, you can have the scooter de-restricted. The restrictors on the scooter are taken out; the scooter is no longer classed as a moped. It will usually go 10 - 20mph faster.

125cc - If you’re an advanced rider or need to go on roads above 30mph and for longer journeys, a 125cc scooter is more suitable. They are not restricted and can reach 60 mph. You need to be 17 to ride one.

150cc scooters typically have a maximum speed of 50 to 60 miles per hour (again heavier rides will likely experience a lower speed). If you may have to get on a highway every now and then, then a 150cc will fit your needs better than a 50cc scooter. But the larger engine will produce less gas mileage, probably around the 70 MPG range. And while a 150cc can handle the occasional highway run, it shouldn’t be used on highways for many miles (especially if the highway experiences uphill climbs), or even short trips on crowded highways. Your presence will likely upset the other drivers who want to go faster, and in vehicles much bigger than yours. But for many people, the 60 MPH top speed is enough and the 70 MPG saves them a lot of money. So a 150cc model provides a lot of bang for the buck.

250cc scooters typically have a maximum speed of 75 miles per hour and sometimes more. This will help you tackle those highway runs. And if you are a heavier rider, this would be the engine you prefer the most. But the big engine will keep gas mileage down below 60 MPG.