Over the summer I had to switch from my fuel efficient 4-door sedan to a used pickup. (Partly for work, partly because my sedan had an allergic reaction with the backside of a honda odyssey). Now every time i fill up my gas tank, it reminds me of why I miss my sedan. My friends and I were joking about how I should keep a motor scooter in my truck bed to drive around when i wanted to save on gas. That got me thinking why not actually look into getting on for my light summer driving?
I started doing some google-driven research and found out I have no idea what I'm getting myself into. Here's where you come in. I'm 6'1", 250(ish)lbs. I'm also a 25 year old man. I don't care too much about looking cool, but I also don't want to look ridiculous. I live in the suburbs of Chicago, so there's a lot of 40-50mph driving I have to do. I'm not sure yet if I plan on going on the highway, so I haven't ruled out the possibility. My drives could be as much as 1.5 hours one way, but mostly 40 minute drives
Bear in mind, I'm looking for a CHEAP ALTERNATIVE to driving my pickup everywhere, and possibly pay itself off over time during summertime driving. I want to keep my initial expenses low, but I also don't want to be sending it in for repairs every other week. Gas milage is also huge for me. From what I researched, I don't think it would be practical to get anything less than a 150cc scooter, but I don't think I need more than a 250cc motorcycle.
Could you let me know what I'm getting myself into? I've seen websites like Green Earth Scooters and Superior Power Sports selling brand new scooters for under 0, and other older scooters selling used for over 00. So how cheap is too cheap? And do any of the cheap scooters pay off? Craiglist has got the occasional used Honda Rebel or similar motorcyle for 00, but what am I looking for when buying used? How many miles qualifies "a lot" in the 2-wheel world? Is there anything else that I need to consider?
Your advice is greatly appreciated!