Italians know scooters are cool. With classic and iconic Italian brands Vespa, Lambretta and Gilera known throughout the world, stylish men and women zip about Rome, Milan and Florence doing their shopping and getting to bars and restaurants. Want to know why scooters are better than cars? What to buy and how to look after your scooter? Mr D reveals all you need to know about scooters and mopeds with his insider tips.

I’ve had a few scooters over the years (Vespas, mainly) and put simply, I love them. They offer freedom, a little stylish luxury and women go crazy for them. If that’s not reason enough to buy one, read on.

Three reasons to buy a scooter

1. Scooters are cheap to own, maintain and run. They pay lower road tax and insurance, parking is often free and they’re usually exempt from any tolls. Some brands can get 130km out of a gallon of petrol. That’s extremely efficient and will save you money you can spend on dates instead.
2. Traffic. Scooters are great in cities and built-up areas. Zipping between traffic is easy and with a quick pick-up from traffic lights, you could cut your commute time to a third of that in a car. Which means more time to indulge yourself.
3. Customise. Scooters are cool. Plain and simple. You can individualise, add mirrors, add chrome, add badges and generally put your stamp on it. Trust me, it gets you noticed.

Italian vs Japanese

'Vespa’ translates as ‘wasp’ in Italian, because of the high-pitched buzzing sound the engine makes. Even the noise is iconic, as is everything about these Italian brands. Increasingly, Japanese brands like Honda and Suzuki offer really good value and are recognised for their excellent reliability. Which is fine. But they’re not sexy. For me, it’s got to be Italian – the effortless cool, the stylish design and retro chic.

So, you’ve taken the plunge. What now? Get kitted out.

Clothing and accessories

1. Keeping cool – avoid the temptation to strip off, you may feel cool in the breeze but sunburn always hurts. Wear breathable clothing instead.
2. Keeping warm – your hands, ankles and neck feel the chill most, so wear boots, a scarf, gloves and a fuller-length parka jacket (I love this from Belstaff).
3. Customise your Vespa with extra luggage racks, a retro helmet and really get the Italian look!

Want to know more?
Talk to other Vespa owners and fans on the Facebook Vespa pages.

Free hugs with every scooter. Because how else is she going to hold on?