Gasoline prices may be down but they are not forgotten.  The astronomical price for gasoline last year spurred many to look at motorcycles and scooters as cheaper (fun, environmentally friendly, fun) means of transportation.  Sales of scooters and motorcycles skyrocketed in 2008.  Although the trend will probably decelerate you can bet that a relatively high number of motorcycles and scooters will be bought in 2009.

The choice of a motorcycle or scooter is often based on recommendations from friends or family.  Now there is a better way.  Consumer Reports is now testing and reporting on motorcycles and scooters for the first time since 1981.The fuel efficient reviews are reprinted here with links to the full articles.

MOTORCYCLES

The two motorcycles tested by CR, the Honda Rebel and Kawasaki Ninja, have more powerful 250cc engines, making them suitable for highway riding. But their manual transmissions and higher performance require more skill to handle well. They also sacrifice practicality by having no storage. Prices were $3,399 and $3,999, respectively.

SCOOTERS

CR tested six scooters and two similarly priced, entry-level motorcycles and found that their fuel economy is impressive, ranging from 60 to 100 mpg at a steady cruise. The prices are also attractive, ranging from less than $1,000 to $4,400. And the best are fun to ride.

They tested two groups of scooters. One group included three entry-level models (available to subscribers) with small 50cc engines: the Honda Ruckus, the Motorino Allegro from China, and the Vespa LX 50 from Italy. Prices ranged from $995 to $3,299. With limited power, those models are easy to handle and are among the least expensive. And in some states, they don't require licensing.

The other group (available to subscribers) included three models with 125cc to 150cc engines: the Kymco People 150 from Taiwan, the Yamaha Vino 125, and the Vespa LX 150. They have more reserve power and higher top speeds, which benefit them in traffic. Prices ranged from $2,799 to $4,399.

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