Don’t Get Burned Buying Used: Your Guide to Purchasing a Scooter or Moped

My first speeding ticket didn’t come in a car. It was when I cruised down a big hill near my home when I was 14.

The police officer at the bottom of the hill clocked me, going 40 mph in a 25 zone. “This might seem unusual,” he said, “but bicycles are vehicles on the road, and you violated the law.”

I’ve always loved the idea of going fast on two wheels. Although a motorcycle is excellent for long-distance riding, there are better options for a quick errand or managing your daily commute.

Scooters and mopeds are an affordable way to get the speed you need while having the safety features you want on the road. Buying used can save you even more, but is it worth going that route?

Are Used Scooters Worth Buying?

The value of a used scooter depends on several factors, such as the brand, model, age, condition, and mileage. Generally, it is a good option if you’re trying to save some money.

Inspecting a used scooter (or moped) and performing due diligence before finalizing a purchase is essential. Look for signs of wear and tear, check the mileage, and ask for maintenance records if available.

It also helps to test-ride the scooter to ensure it operates as expected.

What Should I Look for When Buying a Used Scooter or Moped?

Buying a used scooter or moped can save you money, but it can also cost more than buying a new one if you end up with a model that needs lots of love to stay on the road.

When looking at a second-hand model, there are a few issues to review to ensure the scooter or moped meets your needs. Although every situation differs, these key points typically apply to each transaction.

• History Report. Try to get a vehicle history report to check for repairs or accidents with the scooter or moped you want. This information might include previous owners and maintenance records and is accessible through the VIN.
• Equipment Condition. Inspect the scooter or moped for exterior damage, including dents, scratches, and corrosion. Then check the soft materials and storage areas for signs of wear and tear, like stains, cuts, and gaps.
• Mechanical Inspection. Have the scooter or moped inspected by someone you trust to check for any underlying mechanical issues.

If your state requires you to carry motorcycle insurance for your scooter, you’ll want to review the title and registration to ensure they are clean before handing over any money.

Once you’re satisfied with the condition and state of the scooter or moped, it helps to research the market value of your desired model. This final step ensures you get a fair price for what you want.

What Scooter Is the Best Second-Hand Option?

Although any used scooter or moped has the potential to be an excellent investment to consider, a few models tend to maintain their value better than others.

You might pay more for these options, but it might be worth the assurance that you’re getting something dependable for your money.

• Vespa GTS 300. Vespa scooters are known for their high-quality construction and classic styling, which helps them retain their value over time.
• Piaggio BV 350. This mid-size scooter offers a comfortable riding experience with an excellent fuel economy rating, contributing to its above-average resale value.
• Yamaha Zuma. If you want a scooter known for its versatility and durability, this option is one of the best choices in the used marketplace today.
• Honda Metropolitan. This scooter has a reputation for being reliable and well-built, which contributes to its strong resale value.

The resale value of a scooter or moped can vary on several factors, including local market conditions. Brand reputation, maintenance costs, and parts availability can also influence your second-hand options.

What Odometer Reading is Too High for a Used Scooter?

The mileage considered “too much” for a used scooter depends on several factors, including the equipment’s brand, model, and overall condition.

Anything over 20,000 miles for a modern scooter could be considered high mileage. I’ve found stories online of people going 50,000 or 100,000 miles before needing to rebuild the engine or perform significant maintenance, but those results should be considered outliers.

The maintenance routine for the scooter plays a meaningful role. If someone doesn’t care for their equipment, 10,000 miles might be too much. You might be comfortable with the odometer saying 25,000 miles when everything is pristine and looks showroom fresh.

Where Can I Buy Used Scooters?

Several online and offline options are available when looking for used scooters or mopeds. Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay are popular places to search for them, especially since you can set filters for brands and pricing to locate something that meets your criteria.

Local dealerships often sell used scooters and mopeds. You can also find them for sale through private sellers, with listings on community bulletin boards, or by word-of-mouth advertising.

Some auto auction companies offer used scooters for sale. These often have damage or insurance claims, so carefully review the title or maintenance history before placing a bid.

When you buy a used scooter, you can save money while effectively meeting your transportation needs. If you do your research and shop carefully using the tips I’ve put together in this guide, you’re more likely to feel like this experience was beneficial.