Anyone own a moped?

[Amiable]

Thinking of getting a moped/scooter - live and work in North London, but currently easiest way to work is towards centre of town and back out again on the tube - takes nearly an hour for a 4 mile journey. I know it would be half that even in rush hour to drive. I work on a side street where I could park a moped (but not a car) outside the office no problem.

Anyway, anyone own/owned a moped and can give me advice? Should I just go for a 50cc, or something with a bit more power? I'm 44 and a bit past boy racing days! Should I just go for cheap and cheerful (seen new mopeds online for £600), or is that a false economy?

takes nearly an hour for a 4 mile journey

Walk?

Depending on licensing laws now (it's been years since I checked the two-wheeled requirements), you may be able to ride anything under 50cc without L-plates after completing CBT.

50cc will be a 2-stroke motor so will need 2-stroke oil adding to the petrol (if it's pre-mix) or in to a separate reservoir. 4-stroke engines are less hassle, but would be 100cc or 125cc and greater.

Personally I'd go for something with a bit more power, but that's usually my solution for everything.

Scooters are fantastic fun, so I would definitely recommend one. A 50CC can be quite a liability with it's speed limited to 30mph, so I would suggest a 125.

Don't bother with cheapo Chinese tat online. Get something Japanese and reliable e.g. Honda SH. Or Italian and stylish e.g. Vespa.