You've wanted one and now is the time. You need some cheap wheels because you are sick of paying $50 every time you go to the gas station to fill up your car. Well, scooters are a great alternative, especially the 250cc scooter. The great thing about these is that they can pretty much go as fast as a motorcycle, yet they are a lot easier to handle. It takes the intimidation factor away immediately.

Here are some of the most popular 250cc scooters out there:

Honda

Though they are one of the most popular scooter makers, they do not have one in this class. You would have to go with the small SH150i or the much larger 600cc Silver Wing.

Kymco

The GrandVista 250 has a 4 stroke engine and you can expect to pay in the mid $4000 range. The one thing this model does not feature that others do is fuel injection.

Vespa

The GTS 250 is the more affordable version ($6000) and the GVT 250 is the high end model ($7000+) because of its old school looks. Both feature a 4 stroke, liquid cooled engine with electronic fuel injection.

United Motors

At just over $2000, the Expressway 250 comes at the most affordable option in this category. It still has a 4 stroke liquid cooled engine, so if you are on a tight budget make sure you take a long hard look at the Expressway. It has great value and power for the money.

Cheetah

The Cheetah Touring 250 is a very popular model that comes in at around the $3000 mark. Not bad for this size scooter. No fuel injection, but it can still move pretty fast.

Yamaha

Yamaha has a one called the Roketa MC-54-250, not exactly the best name, but a good set of wheels nonetheless. They say it tops out at 85 mph and is priced around $2000.

What else is fun to drive, can go 80 mph, and get 80 mpg? I'll tell you right now that there is no car that can. So if you are in the market for a new vehicle, take a quick look at the 250cc scooter market. They may give you the affordability and efficiency you are looking for.