With gas prices across much of the country around the $4 mark, many people are looking for ways to save money on their fuel costs.  One way to do this is to purchase a scooter.  Scooters have enjoyed a surge in popularity over the last few years and with gas prices expected to remain high, it seems as though this trend will continue.  There are actually several good scooters on the market to choose from and here are a few of the top models.

Vespa LX 50

The most popular mini scooter built for commuting around the city is the Vespa LX 50.  For a cost of approximately $3,300 this scooter stays below 40 miles per hour as a top speed, but can get close to 100 miles to the gallon.  It comes with a classic style and superb quality making it the best small scooter on the market.  I enjoy the smooth ride along with the fact that a full-face helmet can be stored in the seat.  In many states, you don’t even have to register the scooter or carry insurance and it comes with a very high resale value.  In addition, you probably won’t need a motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license.

Honda Silver Wing

If, however, you need a little more speed and need your scooter to get out on the highway, then the best model is the Honda Silver Wing.  Priced at almost $9,000 this is also one of the most expensive scooters on the market, but it can cruise at up to 90 miles per hour.  It comes with a 582cc four-stroke, liquid cooled, two cylinder engine along with other features such as anti-lock brakes.  However, it is heavy and will only get about 45 miles to the gallon.  It also features a small storage spot that makes it impractical for long trips.  However, if your commute requires freeways and highways, then this is the scooter for you.

Kymco People 150

For those on a budget, one of the best scooters available is the Kymco People 150.  Priced less than $3,000 this scooter can get up to 85 miles to the gallon.  It comes with a 50cc engine and a top speed of 57 miles per hour which is better than the Vespa LX 50.  It does offer a smooth ride and plenty of quality, but the storage space is limited and it isn’t powerful enough to be used on the freeway.  However, that seems to be two of the only drawbacks to this cute scooter.

Vespa GTS 250

Priced at $6,000, the best all around scooter is the Vespa GTS 250.  This scooter is a beauty and exceptionally well made.  It is powerful enough to be taken on the freeway as well as the basic city streets.  It can get up to 75 miles per gallon and comes with a 244cc fuel-injected, four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid cooled engine.  It also has an automatic continuously variable transmission for a smooth ride and quick acceleration.  The only drawback to this scooter is the limited storage space unless you add on the optional top case.