CHICAGO (CBS) ― Some drivers are so down and out about the price at the pump, scooter sales are up. CBS 2's Kristyn Hartman reports they're the hot new commodity on the roads. Americans have long had a love affair with their cars, but with spiking gas prices Glen Richardson says his attraction to four wheels is wearing off. He has a new crush on something that can get more than 80 miles to the gallon."I bought it and fell in love with it," Richardson said of his scooter. "I took it to church and it was the talk of the church. People came out and asked how does it work, and is it like a motorcycle? I said no it's totally different bike." Johnny Scheff, owner of Motoworks of Chicago, explains the difference between the two to customers looking to buy. "On a cycle you have a clutch, 5 or 6 gears, significantly heavier, significantly more powerful. Scooters are light weight, very easy to ride," Scheff said.
He sold almost as many scooters in the month of May as he did all of last year. He also says at least a couple of brands nationally have doubled their sales numbers. At ACE Motorcycle and Scooter Co. in the West Loop, interest has been so high, they'll be turning some of their repair room into a showroom. They think the bike will sell because "The initial price, bike insurance and the operating costs are all low," owner Chad McDade said. Entry level models are around $2,000, and some go as fast as 95 miles an hour. Others aren't made for anything over 40. "It's mostly for in the city," McDade said. "It's mostly for the errands. People don't want to take their Hummers to get something small.
That's one reason Richardson is smitten. But he's actually upgrading to a heavier model, though he said he doesn't use his scooter in the winter months. Protective gear is recommended for anyone on a scooter. Many dealers offer test drives, and for some models you don't even need a different class of license.
news source : http://cbs2chicago.com
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