Honda Metropolitan 2005

(Image courtesy of relentlesslyoptimistic.com via Creative Commons 2.5 Attribution License)

This retro scooter has been my main mode of transportation for the past 2 years in Lexington, KY. It is a dependable workhorse. At 49cc, the engine requires an oil change every few months, is governed so as to go only 35 mph or less, and travels about 70 - 85 miles per gallon, depending on driving style and load. The styling, as can be seen, is similar to a Vespa scooter, however these beauties are much less expensive (particularly when used), yet just as durable and with a decent resale value due to their long lifetimes. In many states, including KY, no insurance, registration, permit, or license plate is required. In most cities the Honda Metropolitan would be the perfect mode of transportation for getting one person anywhere in a 5 mile range: stick to the 45 mph and under roads (preferably the neighborhood 25 & 30 mph roads where possible). You will be able to load 4 - 7 shopping bags without extreme difficulty, or add a passenger (there is -just- enough room for two fit people on the seat, if they are comfortable hanging tight to each other). Search for one used and start up your own scooter gang =)