When you decide that a scooter is a suitable choice for commuting in the town, the next dilemma is the engine capacity.
If you have a motorcycle driver’s license, your best choice is 125cc. If you don’t have one, go for it. It takes a while, but it’s worth it.
My recommendation for a 50cc scooter is just for the underaged and ones who don’t want to go through the driving license process.
The sound of the engine, the smell of the gasoline, acceleration after that first twist on the throttle… Riding any kind of scooter first time is an unforgettable experience. A small percentage of people will be terrified. That’s because of the power of acceleration they see in their first ride. Driving a motorbike/scooter can be a scary thing.
But with the right guidance and proper instruction, riding one is a practical and fun way for city commuting. You get a great hobby, after all.
50cc vs. 125cc Scooter| Letter A vs. Letter B in motorcycling
50cc | Letter A
50cc Scooter is a basic motored two-wheeler. Keep in mind that those are entry-level ones that are restricted to 30mph max speed. If this is your first driving motorbike experience, you can feel the magic right away. 50cc’s can be an excellent choice for driving around the city.
You have decent storage capacity right out of the box. There is space for the helmet, gloves, torch, phone, etc. Nowadays, scooters are equipped with a USB charging socket for your phone which is super convenient.
50cc scooters are beginner-friendly, easy to maneuver with precise steering. No prior experience is necessary, just like driving a bicycle. Start the engine, twist, and go.
125 cc | Letter B
On the other side, the larger engine capacity of 125cc allows more power and faster speed. Usually, the maximum speed reaches 60 mph. Higher horsepower means the scooter will supporting having another passenger. With a 125cc scooter, you have the opportunity to ride on the highway, which will give you more benefit by driving longer distances.
Riding a 125cc scooter is the next level in your biking story. It may be a transitional stage before buying a larger speed motorcycle. Touring a 125cc scooter will gain confidence in your skills to move on to a bigger motorcycle.
50cc vs. 125cc scooter | Price
Like the numbers of the engine and specs capacity, the 50cc scooter’s price goes the same. It is cheaper than scooters with better technical performances.
Here’s a price list of popular 50’s scooters in 2021:
| VESPA PRIMAVERA 50 | 3.399 £ |
| YAMAHA AEROX 50 | 2.695 £ |
| PEUGEOT SPEEDFIGHT 50cc | 2.699 £ |
| SYM JET 4 50cc | 1.799 £ |
| KYMCO AGILITY 50i | 1.499 £ |
125cc scooters are slightly more expensive than 50cc ones. As I said in my answer paragraph, my recommendation is to go for a 125 cc. In the long run, you’ll see all the benefits of choosing a more powerful scooter.
Besides that, you’ll always have better opportunities in the scooter market.
Here’s a price list of popular 125cc’s scooters in 2021:
| Yamaha X-MAX 125 | 5.050 £ |
| Honda Forza 125 | 4.900 £ |
| Italjet Dragster 125 | 4700 £ |
| Vespa GTS125 | 3,970 £ |
| Honda SH125i | 3.100 £ |
If you are on a budget, follow this guide for buying a used one:
50cc vs. 125cc Scooter| Maintenence
Both the 50cc and 125 cc scooters require a minimal need for maintenance. There are no differences at all. Keep in mind the following chart:
50cc vs. 125 cc Scooter Fuel Consumption | You get a minimum of 100 MPG
There is no significant difference between 50 cc and the 125cc scooters in the fuel economy section. Both of them can get a minimum of 100 mpg. The 125cc ones have slightly better MPG, but it’s insignificant. If you are on a budget, it’s a great way to save some money. Especially if you drive long distances.
If your initial goal is to buy a scooter to save cash, then any of them is the right choice for you. These scooters are popular and for this very reason. Every dollar worth it, and you’ll have some extra in your pocket at the end of the month. The more you drive, the more you get.
50cc vs. 125cc Scooter | An Extra Passenger
A 50 cc scooter does not have enough power for another passenger. Theoretically, yes, but in practice, it is challenging to do so. Maybe if you both weigh about 120-130 kg together, such a thing is possible. With its 3-4 hp, the scooter simply does not have that much power for two passengers.
An extra passenger for the 125cc scooter will be an easy one. There is no problem with accelerating and reaching the top speed. Of course, keep in mind that 50cc and 125cc scooters usually come in a small design. This means that driving with two people is not very comfortable over long distances.
50cc vs. 125cc Scooter | Speed
By the law, 50cc scooters are restricted to 30 mph/ 48 km.
At the other end, there is no restriction in the 125’cc’s. The maximum speed can reach around 60mph/96 kmph.
Final words
Save your time and money and invest in a 125cc scooter. You will see the most benefits possessing a one.
125cc Scoters is the better choice in every aspect. It has more power, excellent acceleration and a multi-purpose vehicle. As a 50 owner, you are stuck in 30mph ( in own risk with the law if you derestrict your scooter, plus losing your warranty). Even then, you cant see a significant result. Just like 50cc, the 125cc has the same fuel economy. Practically that’s the lowest mpg you get from a gas motorized vehicle.
If you don’t have the proper age or don’t want to go through licensing process, follow our 50cc Scooter Ultimate guide.
Drive safe!