Frequently Asked Questions

1. Ordering by phone from The GO! Store: is it safe?
2. Ordering online from The GO! Store: is it safe?
3. What is a scooter?
4. What is the difference between chain-driven and belt-driven transmission?
5. How do scooters differ from motorcycles?
6. How long do the engines last?
7. What are the advantages of scooters?
8. How long do the tires last?
9. What are the disadvantages of scooters?
10. What kind of maintenance do these gas powered scooters require?
11. Why ride an electric scooter?
12. How long does a scooter take to charge and how far does it go?
13. Are electric scooters legal?
14. Does my electric scooter come with a battery charger?
15. Are gas scooters legal?
16. What is a good "beginners" scooter to buy?
17. How fast can scooters go?
18. Which model of scooter is best to buy?
19. Don't the small wheels on scooters make them unsafe?
20. What engine size do I need?
21. What are "two-strokes" and "four-strokes" and how do they differ?
22. What is the minimum engine size needed for highways in the USA?
23. Can I make my scooter go faster?
24. Does the specification reflect exact performance of a product?
25. Can I get parts?
26. How hard is it to assemble my new scooter?
27. SCOOTER MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
28. What is the difference between a gas scooter and a gas powerboard?
29. PROBLEMS AND POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Ordering by phone from The GO! Store; is it safe?
Yes!It is safe to give you our card number to us over the phone. We have security measures in place to prevent any fraudulent use of your card. (See below).

Ordering online from The GO! Store; is it safe?

In a word: Yes.

As a member of the Yahoo! Shopping network, we (and you) are protected by Yahoo's secure server:Yahoo! Shopping uses secure servers to protect your personal information, including your name, address, and credit card information. Yahoo uses the Stronghold secure server, currently the second-best selling secure server software and, in our opinion, the best product technically. It supports industry-standard 128-bit SSL encryption.

When you enter your credit card number into the order form, it is transmitted across the Internet in an encrypted (scrambled) form and not decoded until we receive it. For added security, Yahoo also encrypts the credit card number when it is sent it to the merchant. In our order system, we do not store your credit card information at all (even Yahoo's Stronghold secure system only keeps your information around for thirty days, after which it is deleted.)

Shopping online is considered fairly low-risk. According to CNN, "The prevalent opinion... is that online credit card use is actually no riskier for consumers than traditional 'low-tech' transactions." You should feel as safe as you would using a credit card in a store or restaurant, if not more so.

What is a scooter?
The term "scooter" as commonly used in the newsgroup (NG) refers more properly to a "motorscooter", which are a subclass of motorcycles utilizing a distinctive structural design. These are generally two-wheeled vehicles originally based on motorized versions of children's push scooters, although some three-wheeled scooters are considered to exist. Motorscooters (or simply "scooters") have been around almost as long as motorcycles and the distinction between the two has often been blurred. The most commonly accepted definition of scooters requires two-wheeled vehicles (or two-wheeled vehicles modified to have a rear axle) that have wheels between 8 and 14 inches in diameter (smaller than motorcycles), step-thru frames and typically engines that are low and close to the rear wheel [see The New Encyclopedia Britannica (1997), vol. 8, pg. 367]. However, it should be noted that this definition is not universally accepted, as some have argued (Dregni & Dregni, for example) that scooters need only have 2 out of 3 of these attributes. Scooters also often incorporate full bodywork, including legshields and generally are designed to be easier to operate than standard motorcycles. It should be noted that scooters may be of any engine size, though historically they typically have ranged from 50cc to 250cc. Likewise, there is no limitation to possible top speed inherent in scooter design -- many scooters regularly exceed 100mph. Incidentally, the term "scooter" is also commonly used for "medical scooters", which are typically 3 or 4 wheeled vehicles for people with mobility problems, but are quite unlike "motorscooters". There are also scooters with very small engines (under 40cc) commonly called "go-peds" (a prominent brand), which look like motorized children's push scooters. However, they are not covered by this FAQ because they have their own NG, and since they differ significantly from the larger motorscooters commonly discussed on the "alt.scooter" NG. There is also a popular German techno band named "Scooter" that sometimes leads to confusion as well, especially when using search engines.

How do scooters differ from motorcycles?
By definition, motorcycles are nearly any two-wheeled, motorized vehicle. Therefore, scooters are by definition simply a specific motorcycle design. This is why in most localities, there are no regulations for scooters per se, and thus scooters fall either under moped regulations (assuming they meet the proper requirements to do so) or by default, they are legally treated as motorcycles. There are a few localities that have specific regulations for scooters, but as these are extremely uncommon and follow no real pattern, they are not covered here. The reason that scooters are commonly not treated as equals in motorcycle circles is simply because they generally are slower and not as performance-oriented as their larger cousins. So technically, all scooters are motorcycles, though usually only scooters that more closely resemble what are more commonly called motorcycles will be referred to as such.

What are the advantages of scooters?
Scooters originated very early on in the development of motorcycles generally to address problems that some felt were inherent to common motorcycle design. Foremost was covering of the engine compartment. This was done to avoid inadvertent contact with hot engine parts, which is a common concern for motorcyclists. This concern went further with the covering of the rest of the body, along with a front legshield, meant to protect the rider from mud, water and road debris that might drift up from the road below. The common step-thru design initially was so ladies could wear dresses without compromising their modesty, but it has come to be welcomed because it allows the rider to sit on the seat much like a chair, instead of straddling the vehicle, as is common on motorcycles. This tends to be a more comfortable riding position for the short distances that most scooters were designed to cover.

Further, the smaller wheels give faster turning response (which usually shocks first time riders used to larger wheels) and many scooter designs mount these smaller wheels on one side only, making removal extremely easy (unlike most motorcycle wheels) and making it feasible to carry a spare tire. The smaller tires also allow enough room so that underseat storage is possible for one or more helmets. Scooters by their nature also have far more bodywork available for custom paint schemes, and therefore lend themselves more to personal expression in their customization. Scooters also typically are easier to learn to ride than many motorcycles and scooters often have a more acceptable social image.

What are the advantages of scooters over motorcycles?
As noted elsewhere, scooters are actually just small motorcycles. However, there is still a clear distinction between scooters and the rest of the motorcycle family. Generally speaking, scooters have been designed purposely for those that are intimidated by motorcycles, on whatever level. Scooters are easier to learn to ride and often easier to operate. They also don't tend to carry the "rough" image that motorcycles often convey. Scooters better protect the rider from hot engine parts by use of extensive body panels, which also make it easier to customize the scooter to suit ones personal taste. Those same body panels also typically protect the rider better from road debris and keep passengers away from the rear wheel, which rarely on scooters have spokes anyway. Newer scooters are even easier to operate, as most are now electric start and have automatic transmissions, which furthers the scooter tradition of making an affordable vehicle that is extremely easy to operate.

What are the disadvantages of scooters?
To be fair, there are some disadvantages to scooters, but most are related to them also being motorcycles. This means you are more exposed to the elements like wind and rain, and dangers such as cars and trucks. Most scooters have smaller engines than most motorcycles, and thus you may have problems keeping up with the speed of traffic. This is why it's so critical to have a scooter engine larger than you really need, to give you the power to pull away from trouble. The wheels are also smaller, so there is more of a concern with going over potholes, for example. Scooters also have more bodywork than motorcycles, so you'll have to maintain that. Retail prices of scooters are generally higher than the same size capacity of motorcycle, so that's a factor also. Because scooters tend to be so lightweight, they are often easier to steal than many motorcycles, so that's a concern too.

Why ride an electric scooter?
They're economic. Replacing car trips with an electric bike saves on insurance, purchase price, and related registration fees. Furthermore, on average cars cost about $.10 per mile in fuel and parts. You can substitute an electric bike for a car or reap incredible savings by utilizing one less car. An electric bike can effortlessly travel over 10 miles at nearly 20 mph. Also, you don't need a license to drive an electric scooter.
They reduce pollution. The average car emits one pound of CO2 for every mile traveled. Gas-powered vehicles are the primary source of air pollution in the United States. For every 500 miles an electric bike is used in place of a car, an average of 25 gallons of fuel is saved. They're easy to use. Electric bikes are simple to maintain and repair. You can run errands easier, quicker, and have more fun. In traffic-congested areas, electric bikes are quicker than cars. No more frustrating and stressful traffic jams. Instead you'll be gliding stress free. Electric bike users can ride just as easily on the street as through the park. Cycling allows for a sense of adventure and excitement. Who knows where your journey will lead you.

Are electric scooters legal?
Yes, generally electric scooters are legal. By most standards they will fall under the classification of bicycles. In certain areas they fall under a sub category of motorcycles. But given their speed and power, they in almost all cases do not require a license to drive. If you follow basic bicycle laws of your region, wear a helmet and don¡¯t ride your electric scooter on the sidewalk, and be visible to pedestrian and vehicular traffic during all ride, then you should be okay. However, regional or city legislations may have regulations that specifically apply to motor scooters. If you believe that your area may have such regulations, we suggest that you contact your local law enforcement agency for the most up to date and accurate information.

Are gas scooters legal?
Gas scooters are often classified as Mopeds or Motor Scooters but the laws per state varied greatly (and change often.) Please check your Department of Transportation [DOT] or State vehicle registration authority. IT IS THE CUSTOMER'S RESPONSIBILITY to determine the legality of scooter operation in the customer's city and state. The GO! Store makes no claims about the legality of any item nor can an item be returned due to unsatisfactory legal status or license/registration ability.

How fast can scooters go?
In spite of common myth, scooters are not slow by design, unless they are also speed-restricted mopeds. Many scooters without modification will go over 70mph and speed varies widely depending on various aspects like engine size, exhaust flow, gear ratios, etc.

Don't the small wheels on scooters make them unsafe?
The answer very simply is a loud NO! Contrary to common myth, the smaller wheels on scooters do not make them noticeably less safe and an argument can be made that this very trait makes them *safer* than their larger-wheeled cousins. Smaller wheels result in greater handling responsiveness, which can keep the scooterist out of trouble more readily. Scooters simply manuever more easily than motorcycles generally. While it's true that smaller wheels are more vulnerable to getting caught by large potholes, you should also know that those same smaller wheels result in more lower end torque, which will more readily pull you out of that same pothole. This is why a scooter of the same engine size can often outperform a motorcycle from a dead start.

Likewise, the smaller wheels on scooters help when cornering, as there is not the need to slide the back wheel as on motorcycles and there is less gyroscopic effect. These aspects give scooters an advantage over motorcycles on racetracks and is why they were banned from motorcycle racing [see Dregni & Dregni chapter on the Mustang]. Also, those same smaller wheels allow for a lower center of gravity, which is a definite advantage. Lastly, you'll find smaller wheels noticeably cheaper to replace. All in all, there are advantages to small wheels!

What are "two-strokes" and "four-strokes" and how do they differ?
There is a very important technical distinction between engine designs in the scooter world. "Two-stroke" engines burn the gas and lubricating oil together as part of the combustion process, which results in greater lower end torque, fewer moving parts and greater fuel efficiency. Unfortunately, this also means they pollute more, as unburned oil fumes exit the exhaust system. This is why two-strokes are being banned in many industrialized countries concerned with air quality. Virtually all classic scooters are two-stroke. The oldest models require "pre-mixing", which is simply pouring pre-measured oil into the gas tank when fueling. Newer models have eliminated this by adding oil injection systems that mix the oil and gas automatically.

"Four-stroke" engines are more closely related to car engines, in that they keep the lubrication and fuel systems separate, which keeps emissions down considerably since there is no oil burned in the combustion process, unlike with "two-stroke" engines. Most modern scooters utilize four-stroke engines, though many modern scooters also use two-stroke engines, especially in 50cc models. One major disadvantage of four-stroke engines is that they are prone to overheating when run at maximum speed over several hours, leading to serious internal damage. Two-stroke engines do not have this limitation. Either engine design may be either water or air-cooled, though most two-strokes are air-cooled and most four-strokes are water-cooled.

Can I make my scooter go faster?
>>> A. All scooters can be made to go faster. First, it's critical to know if your scooter has a 2- stroke or 4-stroke engine. By their very nature, 2-stroke engines are much easier to modify for greater power and speed than are 4-stroke engines, though the basic concepts to increasing speed on any scooter are the same. Essentially, you need to improve fuel, air and exhaust flow. Further, many 50cc scooters (speed-restricted mopeds) can be de-restricted fairly easily also, allowing very noticeable increases in speed. It should also be noted here that typically performance kits void manufacturer warranties. They often also make reliable engines less trustworthy, usually in proportion to the extremeness of the modification. And lastly, if the increase is very large (as on 50cc models, for example), there will be serious issues as to whether the brake and suspension systems will still keep the rider safe at these new higher speeds. Note: Modifying your scooter will void all warranties.

How hard is it to assemble my new scooter?
All of our scooters are shipped 94% assembled and with clear instructions to make assembly as easy as possible. Most scooters can be assembled relatively quickly with basic tools. Plus, some of our scooters come with FREE tool kits to make assembly even easier.

What is the difference between a gas scooter and a gas powerboard?
A gas powerboard has a wider deck and a lighter frame than a regular gas scooter in order to be used for racing and trick riding.

What is the difference between chain-driven and belt-driven transmission?
Chain-driven transmission is more rugged than traditional belt-driven transmission, so it can handle all terrain scooter riding.

How long do the engines last?
A well cared-for scooter should be able to go about 25,000 miles before it needs a major rebuild. The 50cc two strokes work harder, they should be overhauled by 15,000 miles.

How long do the tires last?
About 4,000 miles for the rear and doubled for the front.

What kind of maintenance do these gas powered scooters require?
Some basic maintenance is required. If riding regularly, it's a good idea to check all the bolts in the scooter every couple weeks (you can use the wrench provided in the toolkit if adjusting is needed). It's also a good idea to put some chain oil on the chain about once a month. Also, remember to always put the correct amount of 2-stroke oil in with the gas.

How long does a scooter take to charge and how far does it go?
The average scooter with a battery will take about 4-6 hours to charge fully from empty and will travel between 10-18 miles, depending on the scooter, weight of the passenger, and terrain. Read the specifics of each scooter on the detailed product page.

Does my electric scooter come with a battery charger?
Yes! Every electric scooter we sell comes with a complete battery charger. The voltage range for the charger is 100 - 240V. Please Read the specifics of each scooter on the detailed product page.

What is a good "beginners" scooter to buy?
Almost by definition, all scooters are meant for "beginners" in that it's usually very easy to learn how to ride one. Typically, modern scooters are considered the easiest to learn, just because they have electric starters and automatic transmissions. They are essentially twist and go vehicles that take most people about 5-10 minutes to learn. However, even the manual shifting and kickstart of most classic scooters are not difficult to master, given about 30-40 minutes of practice. Of course, smooth shifting will take a day or two to master, but the basics are not difficult. And kickstarting is only a problem if the scooter has not been maintained properly -- it should start by the second or third kick at least, or something is wrong.

Which model of scooter is best to buy?
Of course, this varies widely depending on who you ask. Most of those who already own a particular scooter tend to favor that make and model, just because they've typically fallen in love with it. The better question to ask first is what you want to use the scooter for and what expectations do you have for it. If you want style above all else, a good older classic scooter is likely your best bet. However, if you simply want reliable transportation, a modern scooter may be a better choice, just because they tend to be newer usually. In most cases, larger capacity scooters are usually better than smaller ones.

What engine size do I need?
This depends entirely on what you'll be doing with the scooter. If you plan to do much highway driving, it will be highly desirable to buy the largest engine you can find -- at least 200cc. Around town, the engine may be smaller for most needs. Stock 50cc models really are only best if you will have minimal interaction with automobiles, as they typically have difficulty maintaining speeds much above 35mph, unless they have been modified to go faster. If you will carry passengers, weigh quite a bit or plan to ride up steep hills often, you will also want larger capacity, at least 70cc for around town. All scooter engines typically have a shorter lifespan when they are constantly run full throttle, so you should take this into account also. Lastly, it is always adviseable to have excess engine capacity to accellerate out of trouble and to pass safely.

What is the minimum engine size needed for highways in the USA?
Contrary to popular belief, there is no one single standard that governs all federal interstate highways as to minimum speed. Nearly all speed regulation in the USA is done by individual state authorities, and thus there are 50 different answers to this question. In general, you must have at least a 150cc engine to operate on any major highway in the USA, along with the ability to not impede traffic, no matter how fast a speed that may require. In most cases, it's highly advisible to have at least 200cc for any highway driving at all and preferably more.

Does the specification reflect exact performance of a product?
Specifications published on our web site and advertising come from the manufacturers and/or distributors. In most cases, these specs represent ideal circumstances, like fully charged battery, lightweight rider, level ground, no wind, etc. Please take this into consideration. You might want to choose a vehicle that is rated to go a bit faster/longer than you really want. You can always choose not to run it at full throttle. Also note that most of these products are originally specified in metric units and conversion errors definitely occur.

Can I get parts?
Yes. Parts for scooters are available at any bike - scooter shop or super center. Electric parts can be obtained from a dealer or the manufacturer.

SCOOTER MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

Before operating your electric scooter:

PROBLEMS AND POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

No power/ system won't charge

In this situation we will assume that the battery has been charged or allowed to stand for several hours (a battery will normally self-charge up to a point and make the scooter power up for a fair distance). There are generally two main suspects:
1) First suspect a loose or broken connection. Take the top or deck off to see the wiring and inspect it for any loose or broken connections on the battery, switch, controller, etc.
2) Second suspect the controller box has failed. Since the controller is the heart of the system it can fail in many ways to prevent current from being supplied to the motor.
3) Other less likely suspects can be:
_ A battery that is completely open, supplying no current and possible even testing as having no voltage. It can be very briefly shorted with a wire to see if an arc is produced, revealing current is present. See Below for more advise on batteries.
_ It is also possible to have a bad brake lever or throttle since both have wiring and switches or variable controls. The brake lever has a power cut-off switch. The throttle variably controls the speed of the scooter.
_ The scooter On/Off switch can be defective. Without a good switch the scooter has no power, but the test of this is the power light. Does the power light come on when the switch is activated to the On position?

Power for only short distance use after fully charging.

Suspect the battery charger or the battery as the primary cause of short distance riding after a lengthy or full charge. If your battery charger does not have charging indicator lights then you may not be charging the battery at all if the charger is defective. The battery may be self-charging to about 60% on it's own. If the battery is getting old then it may not be able to hold a full charge and the battery will need replacement. When suspected you can very briefly arc across the battery terminals with an insulated wire to see if it produces a nice arc. It is also possible to test some individual battery 12 volt cells using 12 volt motors or lights that will show you the available current capability. Is the 12 volt light dim on a charged battery? Does the 12 volt motor run slowly when connected to the cell? Similar type tests can be performed using a 24-volt battery cell, too. WARNING! Batteries contain acid that can explode, or the vapors ignite from an arc. Batteries produce current and voltage that can burn you when a shorted circuit occurs. Be absolutely sure you know what you are doing before trying any tests to eliminate a component from consideration of being defective!!!
You can take the battery to a shop capable of testing the battery under a loaded condition. Fully charge the battery and carefully remove it. Let a technician determine the condition of the battery for you.
We absolutely recommend a high quality Battery Charger as sold on our scooter parts page. This 24 volt charger provides an on/off indicator light plus a battery status light - Red for charging and Green for charged (no longer charging). It also prevents over charging with auto shut-off circ

Scooter FAQ