Which scooter to choose: rating of the most reliable scooters

Scooters and mopeds up to 50cc are a modern, reliable and economical means of transportation. They are often confused with each other. The main difference is that the scooter has a CVT and a battery. The battery powers various indicators, sensors and starts from the starter. The variator is a simplified gearbox that is not found in mopeds. Read a short review and reviews of the best models in this article.

Types of scooters by volume

The first and most important is the engine size of the scooter. Most scooter riders dream of becoming owners of a fast and powerful horse; these characteristics are directly related to the size of the engine. But you should remember that the higher the speed and power, the higher the danger and responsibility and choose wisely.

The engine size of a scooter is an important factor when choosing

Based on engine size, all scooters are divided into 3 categories:

• small cubic capacity - up to 50 cubic meters;
• medium-sized - from 50 to 250 cubic meters;
• maxiscooters - above 250 cc.

Do you need a license for a scooter up to 50cc 2022 - 2022

Any person who gets behind the wheel of a moped or scooter and drives out onto the road automatically becomes a participant in the road traffic. Every driver driving this vehicle must have a license for a scooter up to 50 cc 2022 - 2022

In 2013, traffic rules in the Russian Federation were revised, and scooters officially became a means of transportation. The decision was taken to restrict driving of these two-wheelers by minors.

In most cases, they became the culprits of road accidents, including fatal ones, precisely because of ignorance of the rules. A category M license is required for any vehicle with a volume of up to 50 cubic meters and a speed of no more than 60 km/h.

How much does it cost to ride a moped without a license? From 5 to 15 thousand rubles. If you stop again, the fine increases to 30 thousand rubles. If a car owner already has category A, M, they don’t have to apply for it. You can only get a license to drive a scooter after you reach 16 years of age.

50cc scooters

Let's take a closer look at each type.

50cc scooters are the most popular.

Their positive aspects:

1. Acceptable price.
2. Small size.
3. Maneuverability.
4. Convenient for moving around the city and using in everyday activities.
5. They consume little fuel (2-2.5 liters per 100 km).
6. Unpretentious in repair.
7. Capable of reaching speeds from 50 to 90 km/h. Some models are capable of 100 km/h.

50 cc scooters
There is also the other side of the coin: an average speed of 60-70 km/h is often not enough. Most models are single-seater.

Scooters with a volume of 50 cubic meters are always available on the market in a wide range. The main part consists of Japanese and Chinese models. Japanese scooters are distinguished by excellent 2-stroke engines, which increases their agility and maneuverability. Such scooters can quickly take off from a standstill and accelerate to 60 km/h.

Highlighting Japanese brands, I would like to note:

1. Yamaha - they are not cheap, but they are not inferior in speed.
2. Honda is less playful and fast, but also less expensive.
3. Suzuki - have a reasonable price and good performance. Available in a limited range of models.

Mopeds

Now let's learn more about the advantages of mopeds. It is definitely worth pointing out their shortcomings. After analyzing the following data and comparing all the pros and cons, you can decide whether you need a moped.

Advantages of a moped

• Appearance. A moped similar to motorcycles will delight teenage audiences. Usually young people want to have a big, powerful motorcycle, but they don’t have enough money for it or it’s too big and heavy. In this case, a moped will come in handy - a kind of “mini-motorcycle” with enough power for a teenager.
• Access to details. Due to the absence of decorative plastic, access directly to the engine, transmission, shock absorbers and other parts is easier. This factor makes repairs pleasant, because you don’t have to remove all the interfering plastic every time.
• Low fuel consumption. The amount of fuel consumed per 100 km is about 2 liters. Consumption depends on driving style, engine condition and fuel quality.
• Manual Transmission. The presence of a manual transmission allows the driver to learn how to operate the clutch, which will be useful when changing from a moped to a car. Independent gear selection while driving can significantly reduce fuel consumption, down to 1.5 l/100 km.
• The large wheel diameter and high ground clearance allow the moped to ride confidently on bad roads and off-road. The moped is ideal for the village.
• Load capacity. The strong frame and the absence of plastic allow you to load anything on the moped. This property is also very useful for rural areas or summer residents.
• Acceleration and speed. Compared to a scooter of the same power, a moped will accelerate faster and can maintain a higher speed.
• Price. A moped usually has a lower cost than a scooter. The price may differ by 5-8 thousand rubles with the same characteristics.

Best 50cc scooters from Japan:

1. Honda Zoomer. The moped has acquired cult status in culture. Easily recognizable by its unusual design. The main disadvantage is the drum brakes.
2. Suzuki ZZ. Compact, fast and maneuverable model. Demanding on oil.

User reviews report that with proper care, such scooters can last up to 10 years.

50 cc scooters from China and Japan
The main difference between scooters from China and Japan is the quality and engine parameters. The engines of all Chinese models, even 50 cc ones, are 4-stroke, which makes them slower and more clumsy. Also, Chinese scooters are less durable and break more often. However, they are much cheaper. Among Chinese scooters, the Stels brand is well known.

This model has a stylish appearance and a high-quality engine.

Other well-known manufacturers: Racer, Viper, Yiben, Irbis.

Best Chinese 50cc Scooters:

1. SYM Symphony SR 50 is a reliable Chinese motorcycle scooter with high-quality assembly and tenacious brakes. Easily overcomes curbs, bumps, uneven roads and speed bumps. The main disadvantage is the high price.
2. SYM Jet SportX 50SR – A fast model for those who like to drive. One of the most reliable scooters from Taiwan. Advantages: good optics; torsionally rigid frame; good acceleration dynamics. Disadvantages: uncomfortable saddle.
3. KEEWAY Street 50. Inexpensive, reliable scooter. Looks good, easy to repair and maintain. Loves good butter.

Producing countries

Scooters and mopeds up to 50cc, common on the market in our country, come from two countries: China and Japan. Of course, there are models produced in other countries. But their number in total sales is insignificant.

Chinese models are cheaper. But the Japanese ones are of better quality. Therefore, buyers often have a question of choice. Which is better: new Chinese or used Japanese? In market conditions, these two options cost the same. And it is impossible to give a definitively correct answer. Users recommend not buying used Chinese scooters. If possible, if finances allow, it is better to purchase models from Japan. Everyone chooses for themselves.

A Japanese 50cc scooter is always a high-quality model with excellent technical characteristics. Their engines are two-stroke. Thanks to this, mopeds are faster and more playful. Already from a standing start they start well. Japanese users are always satisfied with their choice. But in the event of a breakdown, as users say, it is quite difficult to find the necessary parts.

Unlike Japanese ones, Chinese scooters are always four-stroke. This significantly impairs maneuverability and speed performance. They benefit from lower costs. According to buyers, these models do not satisfy their quality. They often break down and require repairs. There are frequent cases of engine problems. But, unlike Japanese models, there are a large number of spare parts available for products from China.

Scooters with engine capacity up to 250cc

Medium-sized scooters with a capacity of 50 to 250 cubic meters can accelerate to 90-120 km/h. Such models often have good motorcycle functionality, and a category A driver's license is required to drive. In addition, the scooter requires qualified maintenance.

A driver's license is required for a scooter with an engine capacity of up to 250cc.

The advantages of such scooters:

1. Optimal power for most cases.
2. Optimal gasoline consumption.
3. Ability to travel long distances.
4. Availability of space for transporting passengers.
5. Good brakes.
6. Thoughtful acceleration dynamics.
7. Cruise control system and other motorcycle-specific systems.

Disadvantages: not suitable for driving by persons under 18 years of age, expensive.

The best scooters with engine capacity up to 250cc:

1. Honda Jazz/Forza 250.
2. Suzuki Bergman/Skywave 250.
3. Yamaha NMAX 150.

Scooters with a capacity above 250cc

Maxiscooters are very close to motorcycles in design and advanced technical equipment. They are equipped with many auxiliary mechanisms and can accelerate to 200 km/h.

Scooters with a capacity above 250cc can accelerate to 200 km/h.

Their advantages:

• power;
• good low and high beam;
• mobility;
• possibility of transporting a passenger;
• strong and durable construction.

Disadvantages:

• you need to be good at operating motorcycles, which is not suitable for beginners;
• repair and replacement of parts in case of breakdown will be expensive;
• consume a lot of fuel;
• expensive.

Best maxiscooters:

1. Honda Silver Wing.
2. Yamaha TMAX DX.

Yamaha scooter

Scooter engines

The second characteristic that significantly influences the choice of scooter is the type of engine:

• push-pull;
• four-stroke.

The engine capacity for 2 strokes is almost always 50 cm3. The design of mopeds with such an engine is simple. A two-stroke engine functions much more simply than a four-stroke engine. All work processes take place within one revolution of the crankshaft. Power is exactly what this type of engine attracts; for this type of engine it is 60-70% higher. Such scooters are noticeably easier to control and respond more quickly to the rotation of the gas handle and pick up speed. And this is not the last advantage - such models weigh less and require lower repair costs.

Let's talk about four-stroke engines. Such models attract those who pay attention to savings. They are large in size and have good controllability, making less noise.

Moped price

The price of a scooter can vary from 35,000 rubles to 400,000 rubles. Models with larger cubic capacity are always more expensive. Also, models from Chinese manufacturers are usually cheaper.

The price of a moped depends on the capacity and manufacturer

Appearance

Externally, scooters are very similar to motorcycles, especially maxiscooters. They are small and nimble. They can be presented in any color scheme and, not surprisingly, are often tuned.

When choosing a suitable model, you must also focus on its intended use.

Criteria for choosing an inexpensive but good scooter

If you want to purchase quality transport for yourself, then you should pay attention to some important criteria:

• engine size and type;
• engine power;
• fuel consumption;
• Battery capacity;
• tire size;
• carburetor;
• reliability of the braking system;
• manufacturer.

Naturally, the greatest attention should be paid to the engine. Most models have four strokes. But this technique is not suitable for all purposes. Naturally, this is economical; in operation, scooters are not too noisy, but at the same time maneuverable. Their prices are quite high.

Two-stroke scooters are much easier to use, they quickly develop the speed desired by the user and respond adequately to movement of the accelerator handle. Their design is much more compact. The disadvantages include high fuel and oil consumption, loud operation and the need for frequent cleaning of the muffler.

It is also important to pay attention to the carburetor - whether it has protection from moisture and various negative influences. The characteristics of the battery and brakes are also important.

As for manufacturers, experts recommend purchasing scooters from Japanese brands - Honda, Suzuki or Yamaha. They offer drivers high-quality equipment that is reliable, and the prices for such scooters are quite reasonable.

Chinese companies are also good, but their equipment is not as high quality.

Of course, you should also know the pros and cons of this type of technology. First, let's list the advantages :

1. Scooters easily avoid traffic jams and congested areas on the road.
2. The equipment is not at all capricious and does not require repair; many spare parts are found without problems.
3. Scooters are light in weight, making them easy to ride.
4. The fuel consumption of the equipment is usually low, therefore the driver saves money.
5. High speed of movement, reaching 75 kilometers per hour.

The disadvantages are the following:

1. The maximum speed is still not for everyone.
2. Many scooters only offer one seat for the driver; you won't be able to take a passenger.
3. Transport is not suitable for extreme recreation
4. The modest dimensions of the scooter make it invisible, and this leads to dangerous situations on the road.
5. Such a vehicle is much easier to steal.

Scooters for beginners

People who are riding a scooter for the first time are not recommended to take a model with an engine capacity of more than 50 cc. The most important thing is the ease of operation and safety of the scooter.

Among the European brands the following stand out:

1. Aprilia (the racing engine for these models is assembled in Austria and made wisely. Capable of accelerating to 100 km/h).
2. Piaggio (excellent motorcycles with excellent driving characteristics).
3. The most reliable Japanese scooter is Honda. Such mopeds do not participate in races, but they will confidently take you to your destination.
4. Suzuki lags behind it, but not at all critically.

Ease of use and safety of a scooter are the most important things for a beginner.
When choosing, beginners should also pay attention to the following parameters:

• wheels over 10 inches;
• tank 5 l;
• large trunk;
• double seat.

Features of small-capacity scooters

A scooter is a type of motorcycle. Features a simplified design. It is smaller in size and easy to operate. Scooters and mopeds up to 50cc have all the main controls on the steering wheel. The steering handles are equipped with gas and brake. Moreover, two brakes are adjusted at once: front and rear. To get going, just turn on the ignition and slightly turn the throttle.

Small-capacity scooters are suitable for buyers of various ages, starting from 16 years old. You can easily and freely move around the city, holiday village and other areas. For “every day” trips, the “Alpha” 50 cc moped is suitable.

Scooters for villages and cottages

For off-road use, you need to choose models with a lever front fork and larger wheels. Such features will allow you to smoothly and gently overcome uneven dirt roads.

In addition, it is important to check the location of the air filter - if its intake is too low, the filter will have to be changed frequently.

Premium scooter
Popular:

1. Honda Lead. Provides maximum comfort and reliability. It has an elongated saddle, therefore it is comfortable and suitable for riding together.
2. Honda Super Cub. The workhorse, convenient in rural areas, has been produced since 1958 in editions without significant changes, but does not lose popularity.

Scooters and mopeds up to 50cc: what to look for when choosing

When choosing a scooter, you should first determine the specific purpose of purchasing a two-wheeled vehicle. Let's look at the main characteristics and differences. Most models are equipped with 2 or 4 stroke engines.

• low noise;
• economical;
• easy to maintain;
• have smaller dimensions and weight, which means they are more maneuverable and suitable for city roads and traffic jams;
• playful and react instantly to squeezing the throttle.

• expensive;
• increased gasoline consumption;
• the need to pour oil directly into the gas tank.

If you love tuning, dynamics and speed, feel free to choose a scooter with this engine. 4-stroke – for people who prefer a quiet riding style.

You should pay attention to the fork installed on the scooter. For trips outside the city and traveling over rough terrain, the optimal and comfortable option is a pendulum fork, and for city trips - a telescopic fork.

The location of the air filter is also important; it quickly becomes dirty when driving on country roads, where there is a lot of dust and will have to be cleaned or replaced frequently.

The choice of any product often depends on the price/quality ratio. What to choose - cheap Chinese, but new, or used Japanese? The decision is yours. If funds allow and you plan to drive constantly, the best option is to buy a model of the Japanese brands Honda, Yamaha or Suzuki.

Premium models

People who are not constrained by finances have the opportunity to buy a scooter for their own pleasure and entertainment.

Premium scooters include:

1. BMW C 600 SPORT. Speeds up to 170 km/h. Owners note the model’s sportiness, high maneuverability and road stability. Perhaps this is the most reliable scooter in the world. The model behaves well in the city and has a stylish design. The only thing that can scare off potential buyers is the price - 750,000 rubles.
2. YAMAHA TMAX ABS. A powerful and beautiful moped with a purely sporty style. Very reliable and lightweight. You can’t say anything about the ease of the price - it is 849,000 rubles.
3. SUZUKI BURGMAN 400 ABS. The scooter provides the driver with the maximum level of comfort possible. Other pluses include a spacious trunk and ample lighting. Does not demonstrate the best acceleration dynamics. The price of this pleasure is 499,900 rubles.

Is there a difference between a scooter, moped and scooter?

There really is a difference between the listed vehicles. You should know about it before purchasing equipment. For example, a moped is compact and economical; it does not reach speeds above 50 kilometers per hour . It does not have a gearbox, so the speed is controlled through the right handlebar, and the brake is also built in there. A moped allows you to move short distances quickly and without problems, but it is not suitable for long distances. It is often used even by persons under the age of majority.

A scooter is a variation of a motorcycle, but it has small wheel diameters and low weight. In addition, it has a gearbox. Some models are capable of reaching speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour. The main feature is that control is carried out using your hands. The feet are on a special platform.

A scooter is another name for a scooter. Therefore, there are no differences between these two types of technology.