Don't get taken for a ride... literally. There are a stack of places that sell scooters that have no intention of matching you with a scooter that meets your needs both in terms of function and budget. It's important to do your scooter homework and know what is important to you. Be sure to make a checklist of the things that are most important to you and prioritize this information in terms of what is most important. This is not to say that you will need to sacrifice or compromise in order to get the best deal but it ensures that you aren't up-sold on what you need.
- What is really important here is to find out the TOTAL COST. Get this pointed out to you and make sure it is CIRCLED. You would be amazed how many crooks out there try to squeeze and extra $100-1000 from you in accessory payments or interest.
- Be aware that if you go for financing from the company you are purchasing your scooter that you will also be in for the interest on the financing which could ranging from 5% to 25%.
- Note that there is often wiggle room for negotiating - be tactful but also be transparent. Ask honestly, is that the best you can do on price and WAIT FOR THE ANSWER. Take your time when you're buying. The person selling is often a lot more motivated to sell than you are to buy.
- Safety is important. Get the facts on your scooter. What is the stability of the machine? Is there a roll coming down curbs or riding along side hills or slanted sidewalks? If you ride in cold climates and there is ice what is the braking like in adverse conditions? Consider the braking on other surfaces as well; what do the wheels grab like on mall floors which can often be slippery when dusty.
- How does it handle? Can you drive it? Had you move it if you can't drive it or if you get stuck. Be sure you are capable of operating the machine or that you have the ability to get good at operating it.
Other things to consider are your weight for scooter power and stability. Heavier people should only consider 4 wheel scooters. You should also give special consideration to the scooter dimensions. Scooters that are too large won't be accommodated on public transportation and it certainly makes for navigation and operation challenges.