But just like cars, scooters aren't one size fits all. A quick look online will show many sizes, styles and prices.
One trend in recent years has been the proliferation of luxury scooters like the Suzuki Burgman line. The Burgman 650 Executive is Suzuki's flagship scooter and the plushest one around.
Freeway speeds are easy, even with two on board. It features anti-lock brakes and even has a power-adjustable windshield. There's plenty of storage under the seat. A rider can even take the two-wheeler on a vacation trip.
It all comes at a price of nearly $10,000. Mileage is also just so-so at 38 miles per gallon.
For something more on the frugal side, check out Honda's new PCX. A smaller scooter with a top speed of about 60 mph, this little scooter is for short trips around town. It still has the usual scooter attributes, like a step-through design and no shifting of gears.
The best part of the PCX is the estimated rating of 110 miles per gallon. Yes, triple digit gas mileage.
Even though scooters are friendly-looking and most people could easily start riding one, you need a motorcycle endorsement on your license to be legal.
To get that, a class approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation is ideal. Many schools now have scooters on hand for instruction so you never have to get on a true motorcycle if you don't want to.
A scooter may feel like a casual go-to-the-beach type ride, but beach attire offers no protection. Even if going slowly, the pavement below is still hard and rough. Some riders don't just wear a helmet. They cover themselves in protective gear from head to toe.
Fun to ride and good on gas, scooters are getting popular and will probably continue to do so for some time.
