I Guess The Biggest News is That We're STILL Here

JustGottaScoot.com was launched in October of 2005 to share the fun of scootering and to offer cool scooter-related stuff (like apparel, coffee mugs, gifts and such). Check the ABOUT US page to glimpse inside the twisted mind of Dave, the founder of this site (WARNING, common side effects include dementia, confusion and irrational silliness).  

The Most Common Question We Get!

Some information about deciding on which scooter is right for you as well as some opinions on specific models.

    
Not enough pointless, rambling talk about scooters in your life? Click on the upper left image to jump to the JustGottaScoot Podcast page, or the right image to go to the podcast archive. The two most recent episodes are linked on the lower images.

We often hear people talk about fuel savings making their scooter "free" to own. Can it be true? Click on the graphic to open or download a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. Fill in the light blue boxes and the spreadsheet does the rest!

Scooter News

BMW Maxi-Scooters Coming Next Year
November, 2011

Yes, BMW scooters, here, in the USA, soon. At some point early next year, BMW dealers will have two maxi-scooter models available for US buyers. The C650GT and the C600 Sport. Both are powered by a twin cylinder 647cc powerplant with a claimed 60 horses and 49 ft-lbs. of torque. Fuel injection, liquid cooling, stainless steel exhaust, front & rear disc brakes with ABS, 60 liters of storage space, the list goes on and on. No pricing from BMW as of yet, but you can bet they'll be pricey. 

Review of the NEW CFMoto JetMax
October, 2011

Can a decent scooter come out of factory in mainland China? Yes. Marty from GoMoto arranged for us to ride the new CFMoto JetMax 250cc fuel-injected liquid-cooled scooter. A mechanically impressive machine for the price, the JetMax is an in-house design from CFMoto and NOT a clone of anything from Japan. CLICK HERE to read the review.

SYM Wolf Classic 150cc Motorcycle Review
October, 2011

OUT NOW at Twin Cities Rider - a review of the new SYM Wolf Classic 150cc motorcycle. No, it's certainly not a scooter, but it IS small displacement, light weight, damn cute and a bunch of fun to ride. TC Rider is our Minneapolis/St. Paul area website and covers scooters, motorcycles & mopeds. 

SYM's USA Distributor Launches Website
October, 2011

The website for the new SYM USA distributor, Alliance Powersports, is up and running. I've been told by Alliance that the site is still a work in progress (aren't virtually ALL websites a work in progress?), but there is a working dealer locator and info about the currently available models. 

NEW Vectrix VX2 All-Electric Scooter
October, 2011

Vectrix is back under new ownership after their 2009 bankruptcy. The big, highway capable VX1 is back, in two versions, AND Vectrix has introduced a smaller, city-street-speed scooter the VX2. It's this one that we reviewed this time around. CLICK HERE to read the review.

STILL Working on the People GTi300
September, 2011

Our pursuit of the perfect do-everything scooters continues. We added a windshield to our Kymco People GTi300 (which still needs to be cut down a bit) and got some reflective checkerboard on the scooter. Now we just need more storage. A SHAD 48 liter top case was chosen and installed (with some more modification). CLICK HERE for more details. We also installed the very nice optional backrest.  

Yamaha Zuma 125 Review
September, 2011

Maybe it's the impending arrival of another Minnesota winter (grey, cool and rainy early this week), but seem to feel an urgent need to ride and review scooters. Quick, gotta get another review done before.... before.... what? This time it's a first year (2009) Yamaha Zuma 125. Another fuel injected scooter and that's a good thing. CLICK HERE to read the review.

Still Working on the People GTi300
September, 2011

As mentioned in the review of the Kymco People GTi300, I am working to address the minor imperfections of this scooter. One of those is the lack of a windshield. Here we try a Givi with mixed results. Yes, it works and it's mounted on my scooter, but this installation isn't for the faint of heart. CLICK HERE.

Kymco Downtown 300i Review
September, 2011

No sooner did I complete the Kymco People GTi300 review than it's sibling scooter, the Downtown 300i became available. Aside from a potential ergonomic issue, Kymco has another winner here. CLICK HERE to read the review.
 

Kymco People GTi300 Review
September, 2011

For years (about six of them) I have been saying that the Kymco People 250 is the perfect do-everything scooter. Even the release of the 250 'S' wasn't enough to unseat the "old" style. Now there's a new GTi300 People with fuel injection and 299cc of power. Is the King dead? Read the review to find out.

Genuine Buddy 170i Review
August, 2011

Yeah, yeah, we usually are the first ones to have a review out when a new Genuine scooter hits the market. This time, that new scooter was so popular we had trouble getting a review example. Luckily, Cari in Minnesota was kind enough to let us have her new silver Buddy 170i for a few days. CLICK HERE for the review. 

Honda Elite 110 Review
July, 2011

Getting Honda scooters for review is as tough as pulling teeth from a pissed-off shark when your hand is covered in tuna oil without getting chomped (now that's tough) Sometimes we luck out and one falls into our hands from other sources. We ride a 2010 Honda Elite 110, a fuel injected and liquid cooled scooter that is manufactured by Honda in China. How is it? CLICK HERE to find out. 

Kymco People 50 Review
July, 2011

Can it be? We haven't done a 50cc scooter review since the Mio back in May of 2008??? We'll try and make up for that oversight by offering up a review on the Kymco People 50. CLICK HERE or on the image to the left.
 

Larry Crowne Premiere - In Hollywood and Minneapolis
June, 2011

Well, OK, Edina technically. On Monday, June 27th, the new Tom Hanks movie "Larry Crowne" premiered in Hollywood. Mr. Hanks road to the red carpet event on the Yamaha Riva scooter from the movie in the company of such scooter luminaries as Philip McCaleb of Genuine Scooters and Glen Alan Bartels of Route 66 Scooters. On Tuesday, June 28th, the Twin Cities enjoyed a sneak peek at this new movie. A bunch (40 or so) scooterists met at Scooterville and road to the Southdale theatres in Edina. The place was packed - I didn't see a single open seat. The early reviews of "Larry Crowne" have been lukewarm at best, but I enjoyed the movie. It's great, light summer fare and it has SCOOTERS in it!

Larry Crowne Movie
June, 2011

Opening in July, this new Tom Hanks & Julia Roberts movie features Tom Hanks as a 50 year old man who re-invents himself as he enrolls in college and joins a scooter group in Los Angeles. Tom Hanks, Scooters, what's not to like? Admit it. You enjoyed "Splash". Tom Hanks has to be one of the most likeable actors working today. Put him on a scooter, and you have the perfect summer movie. 50 Genuine riders will accompany Tom Hanks on an escorted Scooter convoy through the streets of Hollywood en route to the "Larry Crowne" world premier on June 27th. "We can't wait, we're all riding together and the rumor is that Julia Roberts will be joining us riding in a 'Larry Crowne' taxi - a Genuine Stella scooter with a sidecar!" said McCaleb. "This is a perfect summer for scooters to re-emerge as the growing alternative to people wanting 100 MPG plus with the new reality of high gas prices." 

Kit-Scooters
May, 2011

Thinking about a vintage Vespa as a daily rider? Already have a 2-stroke Stella and looking for something different but equally reliable? Want stay away from the crap that all too often comes out of Asia? Scooterworks in Chicago is offering "Kit-Scooters". For quite a while now, Scooterworks has offered vintage Vespas with modern LML powerplants through select Genuine dealers. I have seen quite a few of these machines and they are really very sweet. Now you get a frame with pre-wired instruments, front suspension and a 10" front wheel/tire starting at $1,600. CLICK HERE to check them out. 

SYM Update
April, 2011

The official notification has come out from Lance Powersports announcing that they (in the form of Alliance Powersports) are now the Western USA importer/distributor for SYM. We have posted the letter from Mike Hickman of Lance on our SYM page. We're VERY glad that current SYM owners now appear to have some warranty and parts support. CLICK HERE to read the announcement.

Genuine Stella 4-Strokes at Dealers
March, 2011

The much anticipated Genuine Stella 4-stroke is arriving at dealers. They've been a long time coming, but probably worth the wait. Glen Bartels at Route 66 Modern Classics in California tricked out a Stella 4T with a bunch of accessories including Harley Davidson stuff?!?! How cool is that! CLICK HERE for a better picture.

SYM of Canada?
March, 2011

It's looking like the eastern US distributor for SYM will be SYM of Canada. Earlier there was talk that it would be Peirspeed, but this was vehemently denied by Bill there. I can't get confirmation about SYM of Canada, but the official announcement is expected in April, so I guess we wait for a while.

Minnesota Man Finds Winter Use For Scooter
February, 2011

Yes, it's been a tough winter and no, we're not serious about this picture. Keith in Minnesota (those who attended Rattle My Bones 4 will remember that Keith and his wife were food service volunteers for the rally) sent in this photo of his Genuine Buddy set up for use as a snow plow. Notice that this fine rig includes a sand/salt dispenser in the rear. I think I'm seeing the newest accessory package for Scooterworks to offer.... Thanks much Keith.

Jordana Reviews a Scorpion Diamond Jacket
January, 2011

I'm not saying I believe this, but according to her review, Jordana rode her scooter while wearing this jacket when it was only 17 degrees out. If this is true, Jordana is really sacrificing herself  to bring you the real scoop on this jacket. I've been riding with Jordana when it was 60 degrees out and she was "freezing to death", so I hope you'll CLICK HERE to enjoy the fruits of her supreme sacrifice.

It Looks Like New SYM Distributors in the US
January, 2011

We are still waiting for official word from SYM, but it looks like there will be two distributors in the US market and neither of them is Carter Brothers. According to communications from Lance Scooters, they will be the "western" US distributor for SYM. Reports had indicated that Pierspeed would be the "eastern" US distributor, but this has been denied by Pierspeed. A confidential (but very reliable source) has passed on that in conversation with Bill Pierce of Pierspeed he said that they were definately NOT the East Coast distributor for SYM. Lance has a history as an importer of Chinese scooters. It's too early to say if this is good move for SYM, but we are glad that current SYM owners may have some parts support in this country. 

Jordana Reviews a Fieldsheer Jacket
December, 2010

By her own admission, Jordana is NOT a cold-weather kind of person. She will be the first to admit that she considers people who ride year-round in Minnesota to have some sort of mental defect. Being one of those riders, I'm pretty sure she's correct. Still, she braved the elements and got on her scooter with a Fieldsheer jacket. Check out here review HERE. 

MRP and United Motors
November, 2010

From the press release by Joel Martin: “I am proud to announce MRP has obtained all the assets of United Motors... We strongly believe that many dealers and end users have become orphan customers without access to many of these parts, it is our duty to consolidate this part of the industry, to help the dealers find UM parts, and to provide our customers with a one-stop location for all their parts." UM manuals are posted on the MRP site, CLICK HERE or on the image to the left to jump to that page.

Bench Seat Conversion on Scout
November, 2010

Even with Fly Scooter shutting down, interest remains on the Scout. CLICK HERE or on the image to the left to see the completed bench seat conversion. 

Fly Scooters Closing Down
October, 2010

After Five years of operation, Fly Scooters in California is closing their doors. Leon and Daniel have seen their business shrink to the point that they can no longer sustain it. Unlike some of the distributors that have gone under, Fly had a good reputation for striving to bring good quality products for the price and strong support to their dealers. CLICK HERE or on the image for more information.
 

Commuter Challenge Report
October, 2010
After several months of riding, the results are in. Scooter vs. Motorcycle - a Kymco People 250 goes head to head with a Kawasaki Ninja 250 to see which machine is the better daily commuter. CLICK HERE or on the image to read the full report.

Scooter Races
October, 2010

On Sunday, October 3rd 2010, There were scooter races at the Stockholm Motorsports Park in Cokato Minnesota (about an hour west of the Twin Cities). Local shop owners Marty (Go Moto) and Bob (Scooterville) participated. There was also a contingent of racers from Minneapolis Mopeds, and Jim from that group took the checkered flag! Yes, Matt from Crafty Planet, an experienced scooter racer, was beat by a 'ped. A good group of spectators made the drive out to cheer the racers on and it a truly great time.

BlueCat Motors Moves
October, 2010

One of our favourite St. Paul shops, BlueCat Motors, has moved to a new location. They didn't move far (just a few blocks) but they are now in a stand-alone building with much better access. The new shop is located at 460 North Prior Avenue in St. Paul Minnesota 55104. The telephone number remains the same: 651-645-1172.

Vespa S 150ie Review
September, 2010

Jordana strikes again! This time, she's been riding the new Vespa S 150ie with fuel injection. Jordana told me she was excited about doing this review because Vespas have always appealed to her. Let's see if this scooter could live up to the image Jordana had in her mind for Vespa...

AMCA Swap Meet via Scout
September, 2010

Marty from Go Moto went from the Twin Cities to Davenport Iowa on a Fly Scout to attend the Antique Motorcycle Club of America Fall National Swap Meet. The Scout performed quite well over 550 miles. Based on a design dating back to 1958, the Fly Scout certainly fit in at the gathering.

Kymco Like 200i Review
August, 2010

Fuel injection for scooters rules! Kymco recently introduced the Like 200i with a 163cc fuel injected engine. It starts easily, runs smoothly and accelerates quickly. Of course here in Minnesota we're thrilled to NOT have to drain a carburetor for winter storage of our scooters... Click on the image or HERE to read the review.

Scooter Racing in Minnesota
August, 2010

I was at Scooterville in Minneapolis the other day and The Scorpion rep said that there was going to be scooter racing at the Stockholm Motorsports Park in Cokato Minnesota. Check out www.supermotomn.com for more information.
 

At Last! Protective Apparel for Women that Looks Good
August, 2010

The intrepid Jordana adds another review to JustGottaScoot. This time it's the Trench Jacket from GoGo Gear. Designed to be both fashionable and protective, GoGo Gear is rapidly gaining a huge following. Jordana tried out the Trench Jacket. 

Jordana Reviews an HCI - 15 Helmet
August, 2010

Am I getting lazy? Do I think you're sick of hearing my opinions? Hmmm, probably a little of both. Jordana has been kind (foolish) enough to continue helping out with product and scooter reviews. She is an excellent writer and her opinions are always interesting. This time she tries out an HCI - 15 copter-style helmet.

Potential Issue with Benelli X50 Scooter Fuel Tanks
August, 2010

Joel Martin at MRP says on his blog: In the recent months, several dealers and consumers have contacted MRP regarding a leaky gas tank on the 2008-2009 Benelli Andretti Pepe models in the USA, also known as the X50 BENELLI X50 OR QUATTRO NOVE. We have received enough questions and phone calls regarding this matter, that we felt it necessary to make this post, as there may be some dealers and consumers unaware that their gas tank is leaking. Therefore, in the interest of safety, we feel it is important for consumers and dealers alike to inspect the X50 models and make sure their tank is not leaking. To our knowledge, this is not an official warranty issue, nor has there been a recall issued by the distributors and/or the manufacturer.

Martin Racing Performance Provides Parts for Daelim Scooters
August, 2010

Sad but true, Daelim is no longer represented in the US marketplace. If you have a Daelim scooter, there is hope for ongoing parts availability. Joel Martin of MRP has added Daelim to their (always growing) list of brands they have parts for. Check out their website by clicking on the image to the left. Ask your servicing dealer if they have an MRP account. If they do, they can get you the parts you need for your Daelim from MRP.
 

Genuine Blur 220i Review
July, 2010

We've finally completed a review of the new Blur 220i from Genuine Scooters. The Blur was first brought to us in 2006 and has been out of Genuine's line-up since 2008. Now it's back with a bigger engine and fuel injection.

SYM Temporary Moratorium
July, 2010

California to Alaska on a 110cc Symba
June, 2010

Small displacement long-distance riding may seem completely odd to most North American riders, but we at JustGottaScoot applaud this sort of thing. Binh Cheung is in the process of riding a Symba from California to the Arctic Circle in Alaska. CLICK HERE to follow Binh Cheung's adventure in his own words.
 

June 17th, 2010 - The much anticipated four-stroke (4T) Stella is here, in Chicago, but still NOT on the way to dealers. The scooters have been tagged by the EPA for "extensive" examination. Genuine Scooter Company has consistently been an industry leader in compliance and has helped bring fuel efficient, low emission vehicles to the USA market. They have always strictly followed the rules so far as certification is concerned UNLIKE the many fly-by-night scooter sellers who import containers of questionable-if-not-outright-illegal product. I'm sure you all join me in hoping that this hurdle is crossed quickly and Genuine is allowed to continue to bring us the high quality scooters they are known for.

The Scout from Fly Scooters is HERE!
June, 2010

It's not on the way, it's not expected soon, it's here. The much anticipated Scout from Fly Scooters is at dealers. Marty from GoMoto just let us know that he has them in stock today.  Of course we have one on order and will be doing a long-term review of this machine.

BMW Scooters in Our Future?
June, 2010

BMW CEO Hendrik Von Kuenheim had this to say during an interview with Jeff Buchanan in American Motorcyclist magazine. "You call it the scooter market, and I call it the urban transportation market. Yes, BMW will enter this, and we will enter that market with more than just one model." The "market" being referred to is the US market. Do you suppose US commuters might start to see the light that has shone on the rest of the world and take to scooters for urban transport?

Review of the GEN-U-BIN Buddy Scooter Storage System - May, 2010

Designed and manufactured in the USA specifically for the Genuine Buddy scooter, the GEN-U-BIN storage system covers the stock open tray and adds a drink holder, flip-top compartment and a slot for a Bell brand drink holder. Installs in minutes (literally).

FINALLY - Safety Apparel That Looks GOOD
May, 2010

GoGo Gear currently offers high-fashion jackets for women that integrate abrasion resistance, impact resistance, water resistance and high visibility reflective material in garments that look like they just stepped off the fashion runway. Check out our podcasts with GoGo Gear founder Alrene Battishill. GoGo Gear jackets will soon be available in the Twin Cities area at Scooterville. 

A Great New Scooter Lifestyle Website
April, 2010

Pete & Suzanne McIntosh have launched a great new website: www.symplifylife.com. They are focusing on scooter & motorcycle lifestyle news and events in the Midsouth United States. They plan to expand the site to include nationwide coverage. Many of you will know Pete from his work with SYM scooters and Carter Brothers. We applaud his efforts to spread the good word about scooters regardless of brand. Take a few minutes and check out his site.

Get a Buddy a Buddy Scooter
March, 2010

Pat Yearick from MPG Motors in Sellersville Pennsylvania has come up with a great idea to help people out during these tough economic times. Click on the image to the left or HERE to read about his "Get a Buddy a Buddy Scooter" program. The Buddy will be awarded this May 29th.

Ride-to-Work Day
March, 2010

This year national Ride To Work Day is on June 21st (usually in July) and we strongly encourage scooterists to take part in this event. You can visit the website at http://ridetowork.org/ for more information about getting your city to participate in this event. We firmly believes that people in the USA need to wake up to the many advantages of scooters as regular transportation and this event is one way to help spread that message.

Genuine Scooters Brings Back the BLUR!
March, 2010

The Blur 150 was one of the best-handling machines on two wheels and may have been the best handling scooter out there.... until now. Genuine has brought the Blur back, this time with a 220cc fuel injected powerplant. They should be in dealers soon and we will be doing a side-by-side review with an "original" Blur 150 for comparison.

Martin Racing Performance is Distributor for Armadillo Scooterwear
February, 2010

New brand Armadillo Scooter Wear have just launched their range of scooter wear for the US market through a joint venture with Martin Racing Performance of Miami, FL. CLICK HERE for more info.

Genuine Stella 4-Stroke
February, 2010

It's official! The new Genuine Scooter Company Stella 4-stroke is going to be at Genuine dealers for the 2010 season. From Genuine: The regulatory folks at CARB passed her with flying colors...she averaged 30% of the available standards for CO, HC and the NOX composite! She's the cleanest scooter out there with a gentle carbon footprint and a really sexy look!

Now I can admit to having ridden one of these fine machines for quite some time this past season. If you are in the Twin Cities area and saw a husky (though remarkably handsome) old guy on a suspiciously quiet orange Stella riding all over town... it was me. Genuine was kind enough to ask me to put some miles on one and I was very pleased with the scooter.

At a time when other scooter importers are crying doom and despair, Genuine is stepping up to the plate to bring out new product to meet the needs (and wants) of scooterists. It goes without saying that I will be doing a review of the four-stroke Stella as soon as Minnesota weather permits.  
 

Martin Racing Performance Adds More Bands For Parts Support
January, 2010

MPG Motors Presentation
November, 2009

MPG Motors in Sellersville Pennsylvania recently held a clinic on operation and maintenance. Pat Yearick, the owner of MPG Motors, put together a very nice slideshow and audio presentation from the event and his it posted on his website. Click on the image to the left to go to the presentation.

MRP Provides Parts for TNG Scooters
October, 2009

MRP and CMSI are pleased to announce to the US dealer base a new parts and aftermarket sales agreement between the two companies. Starting Mid November MRP will be taking over all OEM parts and Aftermarket distribution of parts for CMSI. The agreement allows MRP to expand its dealer base while helping CMSI dealers have a wider range of products and accessories.

Review of the Kymco Yager GT 200i
September, 2009

The perfect urban commuter for the USA market? Featuring a 175cc liquid-cooled and fuel-injected powerplant, the new Kymco Yager GT 200i is certainly a contender for the title of "ultimate commuter." Click on the graphic to read the full review including a side-by-side comparison with the SYM HD200.

Saint Paul Minnesota Parking

The city of Saint Paul in Minnesota has launched a pilot program for motorcycle (and scooter) parking in downtown St. Paul. CLICK HERE or on the image to the left to open an Adobe Acrobat file showing a map of the two pilot locations. Hopefully, this program will continue to grow and become an example to other metropolitan areas. Thanks to Andrew Hine for the map.

Our First Mainland Chinese Scooter Review
July, 2009

Yes, I know, I'm one of those people who have been telling you to stay away from scooters manufactured in mainland China. OK, maybe not. I reviewed the CFMoto Glory which is a liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 150cc scooter made in China and it performed quite well.

"Goodbye" to Vectrix?
July, 2009

It certainly appears that the Vectrix scooter is no more. The company website is down and all but a skeleton staff of employees have been laid off. This is a truly unfortunate situation. The Vectrix was an exceptional zero emissions vehicle, but apparently the buying public was not yet ready to take to these in sufficient numbers to support the company. A smaller USA-based company is continuing to try and bring viable electric scooters to the public at Current Motors.

SYM Symba Review
July, 2009

There has been a great deal of excitement around the SYM Symba. It has been reviewed by other websites, but JustGottaScoot has been waiting for accessories to be available for the Symba. The stock seat configuration was an issue during our review and now we are thrilled to say that a VERY NICE bench seat is available that solves addresses those issues. Get to your local SYM dealer and check out the Symba today!

SYM CityCom 300i Review
July, 2009

The ultimate modern urban commuter? You'll have to read the review to find out.

Sachs MadAss 50cc Review
June, 2009

We have started on a three-part review of the Sachs MadAss 50cc minimalist motorbike. My nephew Avery has purchased one, and we will begin with a review of the stock machine. Next we will follow Avery as he adds considerable performance upgrades to the engine. Then we will re-review the bike with the enhanced engine performance completed.

MRP Acquires CPI Parts Business
June, 2009

Martin Racing Performance is solely dedicated to wholesale parts distribution and will not be handling the scooter sales only the parts sales. Any consumer of CPI scooters can visit their local CPI or MRP dealer and have them contact MRP for their parts needs. They can also visit the MRP website for part numbers, CPI manuals in the repair section, and order online from select MRP dealers.

Visit Our Symba Page
June, 2009

It's HERE! The much anticipated Symba (aka Wowow) is at USA SYM dealers. Based on the design of the classic Honda Cub and adding decades of Taiwanese engineering, the Symba is an outstanding "do-everything" vehicle that has proven itself all over the globe. Click on the image to the left to jump to our dedicated Symba page. We were fortunate enough to have one for several days and a full review will be published here very soon.

Fly Scooters & Rider Rescue
May, 2009

Fly Scooters is excited to announce that they have partnered with Rider Rescue to offer roadside assistance to customers who purchase a 2009 Fly scooter. Fly Scooters recognized that in these turbulent economic times, people are seeking purchases they can be confident about. Offering roadside assistance will help provide peace of mind for purchasers of their products.  

Review of the Genuine Rattler 110 2-Stroke Scooter

We have been trying to get a Genuine Rattler 110 for review for some time now. In a way, this is a combination review because we own a Rattler 50 (modified with 70cc kit and other goodies) and have had a lot of time to find out about the basic Rattler platform. The Rattler 50 is no longer offered by Genuine, having been replaced by the very capable RoughHouse 50. Click on the image to read the review.

Review of the NEW Genuine Buddy BlackJack

This is our first review of the Buddy BlackJack from Genuine Scooters. We will be adding to this review with comments from other riders, reports on accessories, and other items. There will also be regular updates as this is a long-term review. We will be reporting on maintenance and any issues that might crop up over time. 

Scooter-Themed Art in the Twin Cities

Los Vesparados: The Art of the Scooter will premiere on June 13th, 2009 at the Northrup King Building located at 1500 Jackson Street NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413.

Fly Scooters Now Available in the Twin Cities
March 2009

Marty from GoMoto just let me know that he has received his first shipment of Fly Scooters. GoMoto is located in the Northwest Twin Cities area and is locally known as the premiere CF Moto dealer. GoMoto is also the local CPI dealer and expects to have those fine scooters (including the GTR) very soon.

JustGottaScoot Visits Fly/CPI in California
February 2009

Just got back in the office from a week in California that included an extended visit to Daniel, Leon and the gang at Fly in Oakland. I had the opportunity to ride several scooters from Fly as well as the new offerings from CPI of Taiwan. I put well over 100 miles on the CPI GTR180 and have completed a full review (the first review of the 2009 season).

SHAD Adds Genuine & KYMCO Color-matched Options
Michael Schuiten from Binetto Group (SHAD in the USA) just let us know that they have developed more color-matched options for scooterists. These include red, green and blue that match the Genuine Scooter Company Buddy International series as well as red and blue that match KYMCO scooter colors. We applaud SHAD and Binetto for paying attention to the requests of scooter owners and responding with products that are scooter-specific!

Two-Wheels-And-A-Motor Website
Yes, another cool site devoted to scooters, motorcycles, mopeds, just about anything with two wheels and a motor. Several Twin Cities locals have gotten together and started with some podcasts to spread the word: It doesn't matter WHAT you ride as long as you ride.

www.TWAAMShows.com

BIG News from Fly Scooters

Fly Scooters announced that they are partnering with CPI of Taiwan. I consider this a big deal because it brings all four main Taiwanese manufacturers to the USA (Kymco, SYM, PGO/Genuine, and now CPI). You can listen to the podcast announcing the CPI partnership HERE, or visit our Fly Scooter Page.

What's the deal with turn signals?

OK, I was wrong. I have said that the "added on" front turn signals on the Genuine Buddy, SYM Fiddle II, and numerous other scooters were placed there to meet the federal height requirement for front turn signals. Turns out I should have looked it up first as they are there to meet the federal width requirement for front turn signals. And I quote:

(f) Turn signals. Each motorcycle manufactured on or after January 1, 1973 shall be equipped with front and rear turn signal lamps. Front turn signal lamps shall be amber mounted at or near the front of the motorcycle on each side of the vertical center line at the same height and shall have a minimum horizontal separation distance (measured from center of lamps) of 16 inches. Minimum edge to edge separation distance between turn signal lamp and head lamp shall be four inches. Rear turn signals shall be red or amber mounted on each side of the vertical center line at the same height and having a minimum horizontal separation distance (measured from center of lamps) of nine inches. All turn signal lamps shall be mounted at a height from the road surface of not less than 15 inches nor more than 83 inches. Turn signal lamps shall flash at a rate of 60 to 120 flashes per minute. The turn signal lamp activating control shall be positioned so as to be operated without removing the hand from the handlebar and shall properly indicate right and left when so switched. Turn signal lamps shall be visible at a distance of 200 feet under normal daylight conditions. Every motorcycle shall be equipped with a device to permit the front and rear directional signals to flash simultaneously if originally equipped by the manufacturer.

RandMcNally Introduces NEW Map with a Genuine Buddy Contest

Imagine a city map that is tear-proof, wrinkle-proof and water-proof! Just crumble it up, hop on your scooter and go. Rand McNally's new FabMAP is a very cool fabric city map that is ideal for scooterists. They are introducing this new product through a contest to win a Genuine Buddy scooter.

Vectrix Sales Up 156%

Vectrix sold 1,184 scooters during its fiscal year ended September of 2008, a 156% increase compared to the 462 bikes sold during the previous year. For the coming year, Vectrix is introducing an expanded product family. The flagship scooter will be called the Vx1 and will be a refreshed version of the current Vectrix model. A new model, the Vx1e will be introduced in 2009 that uses the same platform as the Vx1, but features a lower price with slightly less acceleration and top speed. For the summer of 2009, the Vx2 will be introduced. The entry-level Vx2 will be smaller and more compact electric scooter.

More Midwestern Scooter Talk

Check out Harvey Binder's blog at: http://midwestscooterenthusiast.blogspot.com/ Harvey lives in the St. Cloud area of Minnesota and calls his blog "Tales of a Midwest Scooter Enthusiast."

Jacket Review

Yes, we're trying to do more than just review scooters. Stephen Heller who writes "Random Scootering" for Minnesota Motorcycle Monthly provided a review of the Vega Nitro jacket. CLICK HERE of on the image above to read his review.

Scooter Quest 2008

With Americans now spending upwards of $5 per gallon for a tank of gas, something has to give. Unfortunately some Americans are choosing to give up their freedom to travel in order to save a few bucks. But it doesn't have to be that way. Enter Scooter Quest 2008.

It's an educational adventure from Minnesota to New York City, entirely on fuel efficient scooters. We'll be burning rubber for a good cause, spreading the news that scooters are a fun and easy way to get where you want to go, without forking out a lot of cash. "By coming together on the road we hope to show the rest of the United States that each of us can make a difference.

CLICK HERE or on the image above to visit the Scooter Quest website.

21,000+ Miles on a Genuine Buddy

Angie (aka Bonegirl) rides a LOT. Click on the image above to read her story.

Two New Scooters From SYM

Pete McIntosh and Robert Belmont of Carter Brothers (the US distributor for SYM) joined us for a podcast and introduced two new scooters. The Fiddle 2 is available in 50cc and 125cc versions and has a retro look. The CityCom 300 is a fuel-injected, big-wheeled scooter. Click on the image above to listen to this podcast, or CLICK HERE to visit our SYM page.

First Accessory Review - SHAD Topcase

One of the most frequently added scooter accessories is additional storage space. The SHAD topcase, made in Europe, is wonderfully practical and of excellent quality. Click on the image above to read the review.

Review of the Kymco People 150

Something a little different - we review a 2006 scooter with over 5000km on it. It's pretty much the same specifications as the 2008 model, but how well do these scooters hold up? Click on the image above to read the review.

SHAD is back in the USA!

SHAD topcases are one of my favourite scooter accessories. They were getting a little scarce here in the USA market, but now Binetto Powersports Accessories has them. Click on the image above to visit the Binetto website. Check with your local dealer - if they don't carry SHAD, ask them to.

Review of the Vectrix ALL-Electric Scooter

Wow! An ALL-ELECTRIC scooter that will do 65 Miles-Per-Hour and costs less than a penny a mile to operate. The new Vectrix is really something, click on the graphic above to read the review

Review of the Genuine Buddy 150

Genuine Scooter Company has another "hit" on their hands with the new Buddy International series in 150 cc. We spent some time with a St. Tropez Buddy and compared it to a first generation Buddy 125. Click on the graphic above to read the review.

Review of the SYM Mio - My New Favourite 4-Stroke 50cc Scooter

I have a new favourite 50cc 4-stroke scooter - the SYM Mio! It's quick (four a 4-stroke 50) a bunch of fun to ride and just do darn cute. Click on the image above to read the full review.

First Review of 2008

The snow has finally melted (for the season.... this time) and that means it's scooter review time here at JustGottaScoot. We begin the season with the SYM RV-250. Click on the image above to read the review.

Malaguti Manuals Available Online

Joel Martin of MRP has (very kindly) made several Malaguti manuals available through the MRP website. Visit our MRP page to have a look.

Check Out Our New "Brand" Pages

Oh yes, if I had my way this entire website interface would be one giant database driven page. You'd just enter in what you were looking for and the appropriate material would pop up. Man.... I am SUCH a dorky engineer. Click on the images above to jump to our Genuine Scooter Company or SYM pages. I will be adding others in the future to organize the presentation our content based on brand.

2008 Dealer Expo in Indianapolis

"The largest business-to-business trade event for the powersports industry in the world" (according to their website) was held February 15th - 18th, 2008, in Indianapolis. I had hoped to attend, but conflicts with my "day job" prevented it. Bob Hedstrom, the owner of Scooterville, did go, and he was kind enough to share his thoughts on the show, as well as some pictures. Click on the image to the upper left to see the slideshow. It's a fairly large Adobe™ file (over 2MB) so it may take a minute to load. Click on the image to the upper right to listen to the podcast report from the Dealer Expo.

More Responses on Yamaha Morphous Windscreens

Just Gotta Scoot's Podcasts in the News

Acknowledged as one of the best regional motorcycle publications in the nation, Minnesota Motorcycle Monthly has mentioned the JustGottaScoot podcasts several times in Stephen Heller's Random Scootering section.

Urban Moto is a West Coast publication and America's number one Guerrilla Moto magazine. In the December 2007 issue, Karryll Nason's Scooter-Phile included the following mention of the JustGottaScoot podcasts:

Even the national press is noticing the podcasts. The December 2007/January 2008 issue of ScooterWorld has a feature article about the podcasts and even a photo (one the cover no less) taken from a live podcast at Scooterville in Minneapolis Minnesota. I am completely shocked (and thrilled) that there is this much interest in the show.

Twin Cities area scooter group featured on Summit Brewery's "The Social Element"

In early November of 2007, the Heck's Angeles scooter group held a ride that was video-taped but Summit Brewery for their "The Social Element" website. The ride was a blast, with about 20 riders expected, it was a thrill to have over 30 show up. The All Mod Cons scooter club graciously offered to block for the ride. As Summit Brewery is a St. Paul company, I was asked to lead the ride through St. Paul.

Click on the image or go to www.thesocialelement.com and play video clip number 43.

How a Variator Works

So how does that CVT automatic transmission in a scooter work? This is a very good explanation of the mechanics of the variator - well worth a read. OK, the animated *.GIF file is pretty cool as well.

Understanding the principles behind the CVT will help when considering changes to this part of your scooter. As a general rule, the roller weights selected by the manufacturer will provide the best balance of acceleration and top speed for the scooter. Changing the size of the roller weights can result in performance improvements, but usually this will happen at the sacrifice of either acceleration or top end (more off-the-line acceleration means less top speed).

Moped Parking in Downtown Saint Paul Minnesota

Marc, a local scooterist, invested a fair amount of time and research in finding LEGAL bike rack parking in St. Paul Minnesota. He contacted the police and verified that it is LEGAL to park your scooter WITH MOPED PLATES in bike racks. He even got a map of bike racks in St. Paul. CLICK HERE or on the image above to open the Adobe Acrobat™ file with the map. A big "Thank You" to Marc for the leg-work.

Send mail to David@HarringtonBusinessGroup.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: October 10, 2011