I bought one of these today...

[ikojo]

The bus fares are going up and the service is decreasing so I decided to get a Vespa. I love it!

[GOPisEvil]

1. I should get something like that, too.

I have a really short commute. I just need to come up with the requisite fundage.

[ikojo]

4. I financed it. The monthly payment is just a wee bit more

than what I currently pay for my monthly bus pass. The owner of the dealership said that the finance company will work with you to reduce payments. I will make several payments and then see if they can be further reduced.

I also figure that the freedom I have gained by purchasing this is immeasurable in dollars.

[GOPisEvil]

6. Really? Hmmm...what's the top speed?

Interesting. I'll have to check that out. I can also use that for quick trips to the grocery store.

[ikojo]

8. The one I bought has a 50cc engine and can go up to

between 30 and 40 mph. This one does not require a license nor does it need to be registered.

They do sell units with larger engines that require licensing as well as a motorcycle license. Naturally they are more expensive.

[GOPisEvil]

10. Hmm...I might have to buy the more expensive one.

The major streets here have a speed limit of 45. Maybe I can get a used one.

[ikojo]

11. Both the guy at the store as well as this dealer

advised me against scooters made in China. They said the parts to repair them are not available in the US.

They are having a difficult enough time keeping parts for the Vespas. He said 50% of the people who come into his store are doing so due to high gas prices. I am sure I am the first one who came in due to poor public transit service in St Louis.

[GOPisEvil]

12. Honda makes a scooter I'd like to look at too.

I don't think Honda makes a product that is a piece of crap. I think that when it comes to vehicles, you tend to get what you pay for.

[ikojo]

13. Is that the Rebel? One of my friends said

he'd like that one.

[GOPisEvil]

15. I'm looking at the Elite 80 or Metropolitan.

Both under $2000.

Edit - the Ruckus nice, too. $1999

[Lavender Brown]

2. I've always wanted one!

That's awesome.

[BikeWriter]

3. What sort of gas milage do you expect?

[ikojo]

5. I cornered a guy on one at the store this week and he

said he gets 85 mpg but the dealer told me to expect around 65-70 mpg.

It beats the bus. I have freedom I've not had for 15 years.

If the bus fares were not going up and service declining I may not have bought one at this time but my commute has been increased from one hour to 90 minutes. I already get up way too early to get to work.

[BikeWriter]

7. That's fantastic. Be careful in traffic. I know you'll enjoy it! :-)

[progmom]

9. that fucking rocks!!!

i am so jealous!

[TexasLady]

14. Im jealous

Are they terribly expensive?