Check a scooter’s weight limit before you buy – it might better suit a ballerina than a Kiwi bloke.
BUYING TIPS
CHOOSE THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU
We’re all different shapes and sizes so it pays to try out different scooters and see how they feel. Check your feet can reach the ground and that you feel comfortable when reaching the controls. Have a think about the sort of trips you want to make and find out which models will suit you best.
BUY THE BEST YOU CAN AFFORD
Talk to a reputable dealer about the options available and check out on-line forums to find out what other riders think of particular models or makes. Generally for scooters that are the same size, a higher
priced one will give better comfort,
reliability, performance and/or handling.
GET IT CHECKED BEFORE BUYING
Don’t assume everything is OK when you’re buying a ‘pre-loved’ scooter and remember some scooters don’t have a mechanical inspection when they come into New Zealand. To avoid buying a lemon, it’s best to organise a pre-sale check with your local mechanic or dealer.
SAFEGUARDS FROM A REPUTABLE DEALER
Buying from a registered Motor Vehicle Trader means you get the benefit of their expertise and the protection of the Consumer Guarantees Act
and after sales service and
parts support. Buying from anyone
else, it’s pretty much buyer beware.
CHECK PARTS AND SERVICE BACKUP
You won’t be able to get parts or service support for some brands when things go wrong. If you’ve got your eye on a particular scooter, ask a few repair places about the availability of parts supply.
CHECK SCOOTER WEIGHT LIMITS
Always check before you buy that the maximum weight the scooter is designed for is enough for you. Beware; the maximum design weight for some scooters is less than the weight of an average New Zealand bloke, let alone with a pillion!
