#scooterscrooge

[scooterscrooge]

Something Different

Getting a little bored of the conventional 125cc crowd? After something a little different that will both turn heads and put a smile on your dial with every turn of the key? The SYM Symba might be just the commuter for you! 

Yes...you’re right it is a very close relation of the Honda Postie bikes that grace every corner of Australia, but this machine, made in Taiwan by SYM, is actually the staple of the Taiwanese postal service. But this is a positive. Tough, reliable and easy to maintain are all adjectives you can easily associate with the Symba...and that is before you add in its unique and super cool looks!  

But this is not your conventional scooter package...unlike most scoots this machine is a semi-automatic, which means you need to change gears. But never fear, there is an automatic clutch making it a little easier than a conventional motorbike...just ease off the power, flip the foot mounted gear selector and change gears to keep the Symba on the boil! I must confess I like the idea of this old school approach, it adds some extra spice to the commute and sure tests your coordination skills!

Many purists will say this machine has no place on the scooter scene, and yes there is no storage, there is no auto transmission and there is no conventional flat running board for your feet. But with a small engine, protection from the elements and arguably an ultimate cool factor, I think it has some of the core elements that mean it can safely grace the pages of Scooter Scrooge!

This particular machine is in perfect condition and looks like it has just left the showroom. With a full service history and low kilometres it is as close as you will get to a risk free second hand scooter purchase. Parts too will be easy to come by with SYM having one of the best reputations in Australia for keeping a backlog of spares for their machines and also being able to organise speedy delivery. 

Price wise these machines were a little over the $3k mark when new, so if you can secure for between $1 and $1.5K you will be getting a solid deal and let’s face it there is only one way this price will go and that is up, as simple scoots like these only become more rare and desired!

So...get a full mechanical and history check and then watch the heads turn as you zoom by on something nice, different and yep a little unusual!

Check it out on ebay: https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Sym-Symba-Postie-Bike/173524114271?hash=item2866d7db5f:g:M0MAAOSwO95blJl- 

[scooterscrooge]

White-goods on Wheels

The reliable and dependable Toyota Corolla has the reputation as being akin to a fridge on wheels. Reliable, dependable and inoffensive! That pretty much sums up Honda’s Dio on the scooter scene, and what a great way to begin your scooter journey!

Big wheels, a 110cc engine capable of getting you our of trouble, stop/start efficiency and reasonable storage what more could you ask of a scooter! That of course bundled with Honda’s bulletproof reliability makes this the perfect ‘first scooter’ package. 

Whilst the new ride-away price of a little north of $3000 is within most people’s reach, this model with only 7500 kilometres and a complete service history is a bargain at less than half the new price!

It has 3 months registration, bucks the white-goods image with its racy red paintwork and appears in great condition. Do a little negotiating and for less than the cost of a 6 month public transport commute you have your own piece of metropolitan freedom that won’t let you down!

Yep...even though its a Honda make sure you do a complete mechanical and history check to ensure the smile remains on your dial, but then ride away on what has to be the deal of the week! 

Trouble free transport for next to nix...what’s not to like!

Check it out on Bikesales: http://www.bikesales.com.au/bikes/details/2011-Honda-Dio-(NSC110)/SSE-AD-5646827/

[scooterscrooge]

Calculated Risk

Cheap Vespa...oxymoron? Not with this black beauty, but there is reason to tread with caution!

Yes, $2750 is a bargain price for a near new Primavera with a new tyre and oil change, in great condition it even has a roadworthy certificate. But...it is out of registration, and if you are like me gives you a twinge of ‘is everything kosher!’

Before going a step further it is time to ensure it has a clean history with a REVS check to ensure there is no finance owning, it is not a repaired write off or cannot be registered. $2750 is not so cheap with an overhanging debt or for a sculpture that can sit in your living room but not on the road!

Speaking of beauty, the colour combination is one of the best and should hold its value well and be in constant demand. With only 4 years of use there should be no signs of corrosion and even without a regular service record should have the tenacity to survive, but a thorough mechanical check is a must!

As a scooter the Primavera is the premium pick in the mid size commuter category, will put a smile on your dial with every ride and comes with everything you would expect! Digital instrumentation, under-seat storage and shopping hook are just the beginning. A strong and reliable engine with good economy completes the package!

A bargain...maybe, just be sure to remove those nervous feelings with thorough checks to ensure your purchase is one that both makes your heart sing and wallet not sting! 

Check it out on Gumtree: https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/labrador/scooters/2014-vespa-primavera-150-low-km/1193069846?utm_campaign=socialbuttons&utm_content=app_ios&utm_medium=social&utm_source=email

[scooterscrooge]

Going once...Going twice...Sold for....

Yep this Black Beauty, a grand old Vespa GTS 250 is up and open for offers...what would you be willing to pay??

Low kilometres, great condition and yep those are crash bars and there are even heated hand-grips!

Coming from more than one pampered home this machine should provide many years of trouble free running and if you get the price right will not lose you anything in depreciation when it comes time to sell!

Being a Vespa 250 it has power, style and presence and really there is little more to say!

So...what would you offer?? $3500 would be a steal $4500 would be on market...so perhaps $4000 is the perfect offer to ensue both buyer and seller walk away with a smile!

If you’re interested, start by checking the scooter for a clear title and that all is well mechanically,... think ACE Scooters should be able to help with the latter!

Check it our on Gumtree and snap up a bargain before someone else does! https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/victoria-park/scooters/vespa-gts250ie-the-ultimate-city-commuter-or-weekend-fun-machine-/1195880018

[scooterscrooge]

Ultimate Commuter

Does your commute involve a quick stint on the freeway as well as the need to negotiate inner city streets? Navigating potholes, gutters and kerbs just part of your everyday? Big wheel scooters with at least a 150cc engine should be littering your shopping list! 

But which one should you choose? If you budget is less than $3000 you can rule out a new machine, but jump in to the classifieds and you will find heaps of quality machines like this one from SYM! 

This machine is the venerable SYM HD200! Made in Taiwan, equipped with a liquid cooled 171cc engine that propels this machine with vigor, it is one of the best machines on the big wheel scooter scene! Yes underseat storage is at a premium, and the dash and instrumentation is only basic, but take it for a spin and the engine’s meaty growl and secure handling will mean all is forgiven!

This particular unit has a mere 4500 kilometres under its belt and appears in good condition. It is also equipped with a top box to alleviate any storage shortfalls! Now, sit down and take a look at the price! Yep that figure is less than half the new price, in other words a steal! 

So ensure you get a complete mechanical and history check and then start you summer with a piece of kit that has style, performance and presence that will make you the envy of every 125cc machine you leave in your mirrors! 

Check it out on Gumtree: https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/launceston/scooters/sym-hd200-evo-scooter-in-excellent-condition/1199124184

[scooterscrooge]

A great buy is sometimes about more than price!

A Vespa GTS 300 Super for $5950 does not sound like the usual Scooter Scrooge bargain buy! But this machine is a lesson in one of the essential ingredients in a second hand scooter...history!

Take a closer peek at this advertisement, at the description and at the pictures! Yes this is this owners garage! Yep this machine is one of many the owner has and has had a pampered life! Indeed it has lived indoors and even has its own stand mat for protection! 

With low kilometres, a full service history, lots of useful accessories, you can buy this machine with much confidence that you really are getting a near new machine for a bargain second hand price!

Spotting a bargain is not just about the price, especially if a lack of care means extra expenditure is just around the corner. When viewing an add look for other signs and signals that speak of a great deal and a genuine bargain and that smile as you ride out the door will likely hang around for a while!

PS...and what a machine this is!! A beastly 300cc motor, full Vespa metal body, contrasting black and white trim....even from a less than perfect home this would be worth a look!! 

But as always complete a full mechanical and history check and being a coastal scooter a corrosion inspection is a must...then it might just be time to engage with this awesome machine to make the most of the coming summer!

Check it out on Bikesales: http://www.bikesales.com.au/bikes/details/2011-Vespa-GTS-300-Super/SSE-AD-5708196/

[scooterscrooge]

Nope this is not a Misprint...$1500 for a low km Vespa!

Do you troll the classifieds searching for that bargain scooter? Has a Vespa always just been that little bit beyond reach? Not any more!

Yes this is a low kilometre, honest condition 125cc Vespa for less than $1500! Yes it even has registration and is in running order! Is it a misprint...I don’t think so!!

The core scooter ingredients are there...reasonable power from the durable Piaggio 125cc engine, rear rack for extra luggage, loads of under-seat storage, plus all the core Vespa and LX attributes! As a bonus this particular machine is in fade resistant white! 

So...there is not really much more to say...this is a certified Scooter Scrooge bargain! Dial up the bike carrying company (unless you are in Hobart), message the seller and snag yourself what must be the bargain of the week!

Naturally a thorough history and mechanical check are a must to ensure your bargain buy does not tend up costing you a small fortune!

Check out this deal of the week on Gumtree: https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/geilston-bay/scooters/vespa-scooter/1196994816

[scooterscrooge]

Scooter Scrooge tip of the weekend...Speed!

Each and every day there are tens of new scooter ads posted on Gumtree, eBay, Scootersales.com.au and Bikesales.com.au...so how do you go about securing the bargain?

It’s all about monitoring, speed and decisiveness! Take for example this Vespa Primavera 125. Great condition, arguably the most desirable colour combination, low kilometres and half the new price...this is a machine that needs to be snapped up and it was in less than 24 hours (Take a peek at the listed and date edited fields)! This scooter is such great value you could turn around and sell for more tomorrow or use it solidly for a couple of years and only hear a whisper from that nasty term ‘depreciation!’

Once you have decided on the make and model you want head to as many classified sites as you can and complete a search. Narrow it down as much as you can and see what appears! Now it is unlikely you will find your dream machine straight away, but these sites often give you the option to ‘save a search’ or ‘get email notifications.’ This way you will be able to stay on top of the latest listings without going any further than your inbox!

Now...finding a great deal in the classifieds is one thing...making the next step is harder! After a few weeks you will know a good deal when you see one...and when that happens...pounce!!

Ring, text and see that scooter as fast as you can, be flexible on inspection times (make it happen fast)! Know how to complete a history check before you get there, have someone mechanically minded on speed-dial and have your banks App on your phone to be ready to make a deposit or a transfer! On your way don’t forget to pack your helmet for a test ride and do your homework on insurance so you can take out a policy before you ride it home!

Being a great deal the risks there is something hidden or suspicious increase, so make sure your eagle eyes and senses are switched on and don’t be afraid to walk away if it all doesn’t add up or feel right. 

Of course every scooter purchase is not only one for the head but also one for the heart...money and value is most certainly not everything, but it is a little like cream on your scones or sugar in your coffee...makes the deal taste that bit sweeter! 

Happy Summer Scooter Hunting, this long weekend makes the perfect time to get test riding, set up a search and get all other preparation plans ready to snap up a great deal!!

PS Check the deal about out on Gumtree: https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/noosa-heads/scooters/sold-vespa-primavera-125-3vie-2014/1196559464 

[scooterscrooge]

Cut Price Commuter!

Do you need a scooter that can handle a brief stint on the freeway but is nimble enough to provide ease of parking and manouverability around town? Budget a little tight yet you are yearning for something new? Keen to stand out from the crowd?

This might sound like a pipe dream, until you see this Daelim S1 pop up in the classifieds! Made by one of the worlds largest and renouned scooter manufacturers and with a great reputation for logevity this machine might be the bargain you have been looking for to escape this long weekend! 

Complete with top box, heaps of storage as well as standard features that extend to linked brakes, digital dash and charging outlet, this is no poverty pack machine! Now take a seat and look at the kilometres and the price. Yep, less than 1000 kays and that price is right only $1500, more than a 50% saving on the new price! 

Whilst it is no Vespa, in contrasting red and black the S1 is looking at its best and is ready for many more summers of enjoyment as a commuter, escape machine of beach bus buster!

If this is the machine for you make sure you complete all the neccessary mechanical and history checks and also take a peek at the review by the awesome crew at ScooterSales (http://www.scootersales.com.au/news-reviews-4895/daelim-s1-125-review.aspx) and then jump on Gumtree and take home the bargain of the week that ticks almost all the boxes!! https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/cameron-park/scooters/scooter-with-extras-very-very-low-kms/1196427861

[scooterscrooge]

Spoilt for Choice...what are the ingredients to make your Scooter Classified Ad stand out from the crowd?

In search of a near new scooter to supercharge your summer? Odds on Paiggio’s dependable Fly 150 is on your shopping list! It has reasoable power, plenty of storage, long 10,000 kilometre service intervals and certainly has that bit of Italian styling flair!

Taking a look at the classifieds today you will come across the above two machines. Similar in price and with low kilometres which one would you choose??

The white machine has slightly more kilometres, is slightly more expensive but there is also a top box for extra storage! The blue Fly has barely left the showroom and is only going to out a $2000 dent in your wallet, surely the choice is easy??

Well, take a closer look at the ads

White Fly 5600kms $2500 - https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/paddington/scooters/2016-piaggio-fly-150-ie-3v-only-5600km-s-from-new-/1196314147 

Blue Fly 2000kms $2000 - http://www.bikesales.com.au/bikes/details/2016-Piaggio-Fly-150-ie-3V/SSE-AD-5682897/

Do you get the same feeling I do?? The White Fly reeks proud and careful owner that gives you the confidence you need when engaging with the private scooter scene...the extensive description, the honesty and the extensive photo library ensure you are jumping in eyes wide open!

The Blue machine on the other hand with merley “service history” and “never been dropped” sends up red flags...is that all there is??

Now it must be said, the Blue Fly may be the bargain of the day and is on face value the mahcine to buy, but this is hopefully a lesson in how to and how not to advertise your scooter!

So...what are some tips to creating a great classified ad? There is no exact science but the tips below might help!

1. Ensure you include heaps of pictures

2. Make sure your description provides all the info buyers need to stop unneccesary questions and phonecalls and to entice buyers in! Does it have a service history?? Are there any scuff marks?? Honesty can sometimes buy you buyer confidence! 

3. Whilst people are always after a bargain, sometimes a super low price can make buyers skeptical, keep it realistic and then there is always room for negotiation! Avoid the ‘not open to offers’ line...haggling is part of the Australian private automotive landscape...$200 off might just seal the deal...factor this in!!

4. On price...take a look at the market, what are other people asking for a scooter that is similar to yours? Make sure your price is competitive to spark peoples interest and get them dialling your number 

With summer on the way now is the perfect time to sell your scooter with buyers keen to get set for trips to the beach and beyond...so if your machine is sitting gathering dust, now is the time to get out the camera and create that add on Gumtree or Bikesales and free some garage space for your next dream machine!

[scooterscrooge]

Piece of Scootering History?

Can you believe this ET4 Vespa is close to 20 years old? It’s shape is truly timeless! But is it a classic? Is it worth as much as a cheap new commuter scooter? Will it now only appreciate?

With a low 9000 kilometres in what appears honest and, considering its age, pretty good condition, the essential ingredients are there!

In timeless black with the addition of key accessories like a rear rack, it certainly has appeal. A recent service that ensured key brake and transmission elements have been rejuvenated, mean another 10,000 trouble free kilometres are certainly a possibility!

So what would you do?

If you are after a weekend club cruiser that you can tinker, improve and coddle I think this is the machine for you and a bargain at that!

But if you are after a solid and reliable commuter I think a new machine for Kymco or SYM has your name on it! Leaving a classic like this in the centre of one of Australia’s CBDs ripe for bumps and scratches sounds cruel...this is one machine to preserve modern scooter history!

I am betting this machine will be snapped up before the weekend arrives, and there will certainly be one happy new owner, hopefully one that respects this machines place in Scooter history!

Check it out on Gumtree and don’t forget to complete mechanical and history checks if you are considering placing this machine in your driveway!

[scooterscrooge]

Expensive taste, Budget Price

Yep...you eyes are not deceiving you this is a Vespa GTV (not an S) 250ie with low kilometres all the accessories and in great condition for less than $5000!

With a large 250cc engine, in the desirable and limited production GTV body style (notice the headlight mounted on the front fender), complete with one of the best and most sort after cream and tan colour combinations this is a scooter that will continue to be in demand! 

Equipped to tackle both the city streets and highway runs this is a smooth and powerful ride that has the power to make commuting a breeze. With the addition of a top box to complement the glove box and underseat storage weekends away are not out of the question, especially with summer just around the corner. 

This particular machine has just completed its first major service with all key items replaced and refreshed. I reckon it’s all set to put 20,000 kilometres or more under its belt with its new owner!

Being a Vespa and one that everyone wants and desires, it is sure to hold its value and be easy to sell in one or two years time and I think you could confidently ask for the same coin and sell before you can blink!

So, now is the time to get ready for summer, plan the roadtrip and buy the scooter and this may just be the perfect machine for you!

As always make sure you get a complete mechanical and history check and check this machine out on Gumtree! https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/hilton/scooters/2008-vespa-gtv-250ie/1195860941

[scooterscrooge]

Hidden Figures?

Are you dreaming of a Vespa? But your bank balance is looking more like a second hand delivery scooter? 

No more...this Vespa ET2 50cc has low kilometres, appears in great condition with no rust or major scratches, has registration and is priced at only $700!

Yes it is only a 50cc, but being located in WA, this means it can be ridden on a car license! It has a top box to make storage a breeze as well!

Ok...so a closer inspection may yield some wear and tear, but for less than 4 figures (well less with a bit of negotiation), you get a classic full metal Vespa. These machines handled well, have a reputation for longevity and if everything goes sour you still have a beautiful centre-piece for your living room or scootercave! 

So...do all the mechanical and history checks and then ride away on a real Vespa that is sure to put a smile on your dial as you scoot your way in to summer!

Check it out on Gumtree: https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/ashby/scooters/et2-50-vespa-scooter/1195598557

[scooterscrooge]

Door of Depreciation

You have found your dream scooter, paid the balance, picked up the keys and are riding out the dealer’s door! It’s an investment you keep saying to yourself!

Well...this is somewhat correct! Yes it’s an investment in a faster commuter. An investment in putting a smile on your dial and improving your wellbeing. But is it a financial investment? Not always!

Take this Vespa Primavera 50cc. With a list price on road close to $5500 this machine with little more than a ride home on the odometer has lost nearly half its value. It is in perfect condition, arguably the most alluring white and red colour combination and even has a top box and front rack, it is accessorised up!

Being a Vespa it has a tough metal body that will keep it planted on the road and ensure a satisfying riding experience. Being a 50cc means it will not set the world on fire, but should prove reliable and dependable. Located in Western Australia, this machine will remain popular due to the lenient licensing for 50cc machines, demand should stay strong!

Ok...so this machine is a bargain, and if you are in Perth you should be snapping it up now, but it does prove the point that buying second hand if you can has huge financial advantages! This machine if kept in good condition and not running to the moon and back will at most lose $1000 in the next 5 to 10 years. This scooter could almost fit the investment criteria and when compared to the cost of a commute in time and money, actually makes financial sense! 

So the lesson of the day...don’t buy new and buy lightly used if you can! Shop around for a great deal and snap up a scooter that will banish that word ‘depreciation’ that hits as soon as you ride your new machine out of the showroom door! 

Check this awesome Vespa Primavera 50cc out on Gumtree: https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/fremantle/scooters/vespa-primavera-50-cc/1195408661

[scooterscrooge]

Honest Value

Low kilometres, service history, great price and a careful owner...this Vespa is ticking all the Scooter Scrooge boxes!

The GT200 was the first of the really highway capable Vespas. A 200cc liquid cooled engine sits below the saddle, there is loads of storage and those classic Vespa looks complete the package! If you are after a commuter that can tackle city streets and a short freeway run, a GT Vespa should be at the top of your list!

This particular machine comes with arguably one of the signature colour palletes of this series, that mint green accentuating the classic lines and will prove timeless. With matching top box, unblemished leather, it has all the features you should be on the lookout for.

Yes it does have some cosmetic scars, but the bargain price gives you the room to rectify these well within budget, and still ride away with a bargain buy! 

GT series Vespas with similar kilometres and often in worse condition often go for more than double the price, this is a true bargain that will reward you on the road and at resale time!

So...complete all the necessary mechanical and history checks and then get ready to welcome in the summer months with a scooter in the driveway!

Check it out on Gumtree: https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/kalamunda/scooters/vespa-gt200-scooter/1194886147 

[scooterscrooge]

Cheap?

Yep, this is a real Vespa GTS 300! Yep it has registration! Nope it has not traveled to the moon and back! Nope it has not been in a serious accident, and yep the price is right less than $3k! So, what’s the catch?

Well, take a closer look at the pictures and the description and this bike has been in the wars, scratches as the owner acknowledges are a badge of honour on this scoot. Take an even closer look and the beachside location of this machine mean some light surface corrosion appears to be present too. 

But with annual services, mechanical sympathy in the form of premium fuel, mean this touring machine is anything but tired.

Remember this is a top of the range Vespa. It has touring potential, can cope with motorways and freeways with ease and has style, storage and presence of few other scooters...and all this for the price of an entry level plastic fantastic 125cc machine...surely tempting!

So...decision time...is the more than $2k saving on a comparable Vespa enough to either respray as the owner identifies or be compensation enough when you choose to on-sell? 

The counterpoint I believe comes down to what is under the skin! Is the machine actually in good mechanical condition? Is the main frame of the machine free from corrosion? A tick to both of these might just make this Vespa worth the risk!

If so, I think I might choose to go wild with the paint! Add some stickers, a wrap or some unique scooter art to a simple white respray and suddenly what appears a problem now becomes an opportunity!

Now only the question remains, will you or I make it out to secure this deal first! 

As with all machines make sure you do a complete mechanical and history check and with this machine in particular, make sure you also go under the skin and check for corrosion! 

Check it out on Bikesales: http://www.bikesales.com.au/bikes/details/2009-Vespa-GTS-300-Super/SSE-AD-5647627/