I am thinking of buying a scooter/moped. Any advice/opinions/suggestions?

I am graduating college within the next year. I plan on saving up at least $1,000 by that time, but since I am completely financially indepenent, it is difficult to save up much more than that. While I could probably get a really cheap used car, I'd rather save up money for a nicer new car rather than waste money on something that isn't reliable. Therefore, I was thinking of investing in a gas scooter/moped. I am starting to gather research on them now. I have seen the price range from $800-$6,000. Just wanted to get some opinions/advice on the topic (e.g. What are good brands? Do you need to get vehicle insurance? Are you supposed to park them in regular parking spots? Are there some with large storage space? If you have one, do you like it? ... or anything else you can gave me advice/opinions on ...). Thanks!

Oh - and please do not answer if you do not intend on giving a serious answer.

You don't need a motorcycle license/insurance if it's under 50cc. Pepboys sells one for around $799. Honda is around $2000 but definately more reliable and better dealer network.

But the disadvantage is these will not go faster than 35mph.... which means they are safer for residential streets.

There are scooters that can go over 75mph... but they are over $5000 and require a motorcycle license and insurance.
Probably better off buying a reliable used car if you need anything faster than 35mph. Late 80s Honda Accord & Civic are excellent cars and cost around $1000.

http://www.analogstereo.com/ch... Report It

If you don't want to go the car route, I'd go for a motorcycle instead of a scooter. Something with more power, saddlebags, and that you could also use on the highway if needed (at least a 650cc motor).

Take a safety course, and get insurance whether your state requires it or not (in FL, motorcycle operators aren't required to have insurance so I imagine scooters here are the same). If you should run into someone (even on a scooter) the damage done could be well outside your ability to pay for.

There are probably numerous scooters posted for sale on campus bulletin boards, but Craigslist > for sale > motorcycles is another resource. Realistically asses your anticipated speed requirements . . if you need to keep up with 45 mph traffic, don't consider anything less than 150cc.

GirlBike
http://girlbike.com/

Possible employment resource where only private bicycles are permitted . . Kwajalein
http://www.krsjv.com/job_ops_open.html
Hourglass newspaper
http://www.smdc.army.mil/KWAJ/Hourglass/...

Here's a link on ebay Map-It where you can find them in your home town