If you're a beach town resident with little patience for traffic and carbon conscious mind, then a scooter might serve as a good alternative for surf transportation. This used '03 Honda Metropolitan works for me and it was worth every penny of the $900 investment.
I frequently get asked the same questions during surf check pit stops so I thought I'd contribute them to the blog.
How does it ride and how fast can it go?
It rides smooth and quietly just like the pod. Take extra caution while riding over bumps to eliminate bounce and asphalt dings. This hog tops just under 40 MPH with one or two people (I don't recommend riding it with your bros).
Gas mileage/$avings?
It's 1.2 gallon tank will carry you about 90 miles. This is six times what my old Ford F-150 did before I gave it back to US Bank. If I spend 25% of my time driving to and from surf this saves me $50 a month, or a new surfboard per year!
How do the racks work?
It's secure and easy. The brand is Carver and comes packaged with everything you need to make it stable. You may need to get creative to increase more tension with the bungy cords, but nonetheless my 5'6 Merrick Pod fits nice and snug. I always position the nose inward to reduce drag. Otherwise it will create the infamous arm (airplane wing) out the car window effect.
Do you need a motorcycle license?
Unfortunately, Yes. Anything 50 CC and over will require a Motocycle license in CA. The written test is easier than the manual driving test, so I've heard.
How much is Insurance?
Geico charges $70 a year. 21st Century was about the same.
How much storage?
You have enough for the essentials. I use a backpack to zip up my helmet, clothes, and other personal items which barely fits in the seat storage with the right jamming technique. Less important items such as towels and sandals are left on the floorboard. If someone wants them that bad, then so be it.
Other options besides the Metropolitan?
The Honda brought back the Elite 110 this year. It hits 45+ MPH and has double the seat space. This is key for surf sessions, especially in the winter when you need to store more clothing like a jacket and a pair of pants. The Yamaha Vino and Zuma are the closest rivals, both are great options. I'm not a motor head so I'll leave the details for the store rep or you can google the forums.
Other recommendations?
1. Don't drive down Del Mar bike lanes during summer time traffic jams with a 6 pack of beer in your seat storage. 2. Spend good money on a lock.
~Fab