ok - I will take the bait and post - how about a recommendation

[DrDan]

I have a scooter - a Yamaha C3. But am considering something bigger - something that will keep up with traffic.

So - I like the GREAT gas mileage of the C3 - more than 100 mpg. So I want something that gets around 50+ mpg.

I like the automatic transmission of the C3 - I do not want to make this more complicated than necessary. And my wife may be using it. So I would prefer an automatic transmission.


I do not have a motorcycle license - the C3 does not require it.

So - how do I go about moving up. Should I get the motorcycle license first then try some test rides?
Is there a natural progression?
What are the pitfalls of used bikes?
I would lie to stay in the $5-$7K range.
I have had college acquaintences die on bikes - and several with broken legs from other drivers. So I am a bit reluctant.

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

1. How about a bigger scooter?

I don't know of too many (none in fact) motorcycles with automatic trans.

But a bigger scooter, like Suzuki Burgman 400 or 650 should keep up with traffic just fine. The 650 might be smoother, just because it's got two cylinders.

[DrDan]

4. just checked Craig's list and found a Burgman for

$4800.

Thanks. Need to pursue a motorcycle endorsement first, I guess.

[HamstersFromHell]

2. For a natural step up, you might...

look at the Suzuki Burgman 400 or Yamaha Morphous 250.

Both are fully automatic transmission, and both have more than enough power to keep up with freeway trafficm although a 250 is the very smallest I'd dare to try an Interstate on...the 400 class will handle those speeds much better.

Licensing depends on your state's laws as to size, etc. I'd recommend having a license, as it can't hurt your insurance rates. Taking and passing a MSF course in a lot of cases will give you a sizable discount. (Note than in some states, passing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course grants your license upon completion, or a waiver of the road and written tests.)

The only natural progression is what you are comfortable with yourself. I jumped at 16 from a 90cc Yamaha Enduro to a 650 Triumph and had nary a problem, even with the shifter and brakes being on the "wrong" side from the Yamaha. If you're uncomfortable with the idea of a manual clutch and shifter, nothing's going to allay your dislike of it. The larger scooters will be easier for your wife, as they carry their weight much lower than most motorcycles, so they don't require the physical strength to "prop up" at lights and stop signs if she should find herself a bit off balance.

No more pitfalls on used bikes than on used cars...as always, buyer beware. However, a used scooter is much less likely to be a victim of rider abuse as a motorcycle.

Nothing is going to put your reluctance behind you. But you have possibly more chance of being injured in an accident with a small scooter than a larger one or a motorcycle. Smaller wheels and tires mean road objects and potholes are more of a danger than on something with larger diameter tires. Also, acceleration and braking are susally superior in larger nikes...the chance to *avoid* the accident increases with braking/acceleration/maneuverability.

Motorcycles are not inherently dangerous. They are superior to autos in their ability to avoid accidents...provided the rider is capable of reacting as appropriate to the situation. You also have to ride defensively, and act as if you are invisible to autos. Think ahead, and look down the road.

[DrDan]

3. thanks

I mention safety because with the scooter I try to stay off roads with speed limits of 45 or more. That means the drivers want to go 55 and my C3 will at best hit 40.

The scooter has certainly made me a more aware rider. I ride it frequently to the Y, which being in Florida means LOTS of senior drivers. That parking lot is far far from safe.

I did take a quick look on Craigs list and found a 2007 Burgman for $4800.

So I guess I should get into a class and get that on my license.

Thanks for the tips.

[Robb]

5. +1 on the MSF course

It takes up a weekend, and puts a lot of good info in front of you. I recommend it to anyone, highly.

Good rule of thumb for riding on the road is to put safety equipment high on your budget list. There's good, comfy stuff out there.