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It's a brand new bike

Scooter vs Motorcycle: Which One is Better for You?

If you are looking to buy a two-wheeler for your daily commute and don’t have preferences, this question has probably crossed your mind - ‘Motorcycle vs scooter - which one is better?’

Back in the 70s and 90s, ‘scooter’ or ‘scooty’ would have been the answer to this question. 

However, since then, the stylish and faster bikes did not take much time to win people’s hearts. A change in scenario occurred again in the late 90s when scooters came back with brand new looks and features.

When you buy a bike or scooter in India, it is crucial to secure it with two-wheeler insurance, as mandated by the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. It provides financial protection against accidents, theft and damage, safeguarding you and your investment. 

Having two-wheeler insurance also saves you from hefty traffic fines, license suspension and even legal trouble.

What are the Differences Between Scooters and Bikes?

Basis

Scooter

Bikes

Usability

Ideal for shorter distances.

Meant for longer distances.

Convenience and Comfort

Smaller structure, gearless feature, ease of manoeuvring and lightweight framework.

Bigger structure, high engine capacity, bigger fuel tanks, shock absorbers, and powerful headlamps.

Price

Generally lower than motorcycles.

Higher than scooters.

Ease of Learning

It is easy to learn for beginners as they usually pack in an automatic transmission system.

Harder to learn because of their manual transmission system.

Fuel Efficiency or Mileage

Scooters usually give you less mileage than bikes.

Motorcycles can produce higher mileage even with the same engine capacity.

Engine Size

The engine displacement of top scooters can be around 80-150cc.

Engine displacement of top bikes available in India can go all the way up to 1000cc.

Wheel Stability

Scooters do not provide enough wheel stability as they have smaller tyres.

Larger tyres and longer wheelbases of motorcycles provide higher stability at high speed as well as on rough surfaces.

Speed and Performance

Scooters have a lower top speed than bikes.

Motorcycles can produce higher top speeds owing to their larger wheels and engines.

Storage Space

Every scooter brings along an adequate storage space under the seat.

Bikes come with little to almost no storage space.

Frequency of Refueling

The smaller fuel tank of scooters holds less fuel, which makes you refuel them frequently.

The larger fuel tank of motorcycles allows you to ride longer distances without worrying about refueling.

Mobility

Its smaller wheelbase allows better turning and manoeuvring.

The longer wheelbase of a motorcycle does not allow preciseness to manoeuvre and turn at a low speed.

Safety

Scooters are safer because of their low top speed.

Bikes are considered less safe due to their much higher top speed.

Maintenance

The simple design and mechanism of a scooter do not need much maintenance.

A motorcycle has a more complex mechanism that costs more to maintain.

When is a Scooter Better Than a Bike?

scooter

A scooter can sometimes be a better choice than a bike. Here is how:

  • Scooters are way lighter than motorcycles and can be managed by any rider.
  • It is easy to learn due to its simpler mechanisms.
  • It provides more mobility and wheel stability at low speeds and is easy to park in a small space.
  • The lower speed range reduces the chances of high-speed accidents.
  • Scooters come with a storage space that increases their utility.
  • The smaller size and simple build make it ideal for a quick and shorter daily commute.
  • Insurance policies for scooters are always more affordable than for bikes.
  • A scooter has a lower maintenance cost.

When is a Bike Better Than a Scooter?

motorcycle

Despite scooters having so many perks, bikes have several reasons to be chosen over them. Below are some of the advantages of motorcycles:

  • While comparing scooters and bikes, bikes give you better fuel efficiency.
  • Bikes usually have more fuel tank capacity and a longer wheelbase, making them ideal for longer rides.
  • With bikes that have bigger fuel tanks, you do not need to worry about frequent refueling.
  • Bikes come with a higher engine displacement that allows them to produce more power and torque.
  • A bike offers better wheel stability at a higher speed, even on rough terrain.
  • A motorcycle provides better acceleration, top speed, and engine refinement.
  • The heavier and sturdier build of a bike makes it more durable than a scooter.
  • When it comes to looks and style, bikes are, without any doubt, ahead of scooters.

Comparing scooters and motorcycles is not easy, as both come with their individual perks. They both serve different purposes according to their features. Therefore, it is not appropriate to say one is better or worse than the other. 

However, now that you have gone through the detailed comparison of bike vs scooter, you can make an informed choice before opting for one.

Also, it is advisable to protect your vehicle with a third party two-wheeler insurance policy, as it is mandated by law. It will cover any damage or losses your vehicle could cause to a third-party person or property in any unforeseen mishap.

FAQs about Scooter vs Bike