Yes, a scooter is considered a motorcycle, both considered a two-wheeled motor vehicle. A scooter is one of the earliest designs for a motorcycle, being made in 1914.
In this article, we will talk about whether a scooter counts as a motorcycle, the differences between the two, and the similarities.
Does a scooter count as a motorcycle?
Yes, a scooter or motor scooter is a motorcycle with a platform for the rider’s feet. Scooters were one of the earliest designs of a motorcycle, and both fall under the category of two-wheeled motor vehicles.
What differentiates a scooter from a motorcycle?
Although scooters are classified as motorcycles, there are some large differences between the two that we see today. The placement and size of the engine and gas tank of a motorcycle are found in the middle, the tires of the scooter are much smaller (16” or less in size). Another key marketing difference is that a scooter is comfortable and fuel-efficient, whereas a motorcycle is fast and sleek.
What are the similarities between a scooter and a motorcycle?
Both are two-wheeled vehicles, the idea beginning during the 1st world war, and both make it very easy to park in any large city. On top of that, their fuel economy is far better than that of a car or truck.
What’s the difference in price between a scooter and a motorcycle?
Scooters are cheaper by far, ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand with luxury scooters costing about 10,000$. Motorcycles range in price. You get them anywhere between 2650.00$-300,000$.
Is the licensing the same for scooters and motorcycles?
Yes, the licensing for scooters and motorcycles is very different. This is mostly because of the fact that motorcycles go very fast, and are considered far more dangerous.
What license do you need for scooters and motorcycles?
The licensing for scooters usually falls under the same licensing for your standard car, meaning your normal everyday license will do. However, for a motorcycle, you’ll need to obtain special licencing to ride.
How long does it take to get your motorcycle license?
It can take anywhere between 6-18 months to get your motorcycle license. You usually need a 70% passing rate to obtain it and you may need to take an eye exam along with a permit.
What is the difference in engine size between a scooter and a motorcycle?
A scooter can have engine sizes ranging from 50cc, 150cc, and even 250cc. Anything that surpasses 250cc, however, is considered to be a motorcycle. Motorcycle engines can reach as large as 1000cc or over, making them far faster than scooters.
What are the most popular scooter and motorcycle makes?
Harley Davidson is by far one of the most popular motorcycles on the market, the brand having whole museums dedicated to their motorcycles. Piaggio and Vespa are two of the most popular scooter brands, Piaggio in the United States, where both are highly used in Europe.
Can you drive a scooter and a motorcycle on a highway?
Motorcycles are definitely permitted on the highway, however, scooters are not considered highway legal in all countries. Be sure to check your countries regulations prior to driving your scooter.