As gas prices continue to soar, hybrids and electric cars are the go-to option for consumers. The only problem is that these vehicles are relatively expensive and during our current recession, not many people can afford a new car. So what about Scooters? They’re low maintenance, cost-effective and offer great portability. Yes, they may not be the most glamorous of vehicles, but they get the job done.

Although it may seem like all scooters are the same, there’s definitely a hierarchy in terms of sleekness, brand and affordability. Some generalize and say anyone who buys a scooter isn’t worried much about appearance, but there are some options to looking cool in the two-wheeler. Vespa’s really took off in the last couple of years after gas prices sky rocketed.

They brought that 70′s style back with a modern look. The average cost for a Vespa is around $3-$6K and of course more if you really want to pimp it out.

So who’s really buying scooters nowadays? You’ll find that they’re most popular in big cities where driving costs are almost as expensive as rent (i.e. New York City, Los Angeles). Young professionals looking to save money and the earth are often the most apt to buying scooters. At the end of the day it all comes down to preference. If you’d rather be safe, secure and spend a lot of money, you get a car. If you want to be adventurous, cheap and save the world, you get a scooter. What do you choose?