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// Scooter FAQs

Are you interested in getting on a scooter? We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you get started!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Do I need a license to ride a scooter?
  2. What safety gear do I need to wear on a scooter?
  3. Can you ride your scooter on the sidewalk?
  4. Where can I park my scooter?
  5. How fast will my scooter go?
  6. Can I take my scooter on the highway?
  7. Do scooters require a lot of maintenance?
  8. Can I take a passenger with me on a scooter?
  9. How much is scooter insurance?
  10. What is a limited speed motorcycle?
  11. How do I know which scooter fits into my lifestyle?
  12. What are scooter clubs and how do I find them in my area?
  13. What does "cc" stand for?
  14. What is a "CVT" transmission?
  15. What is the difference between air cooled and liquid cooled?
  16. What is the difference between 2 and 4 stroke?
  17. Am I reducing my carbon footprint by riding a gas scooter instead of an electric one?
  18. Do I need to "winterize" my scooter, and what exactly does that mean?
  19. Are there training courses specifically for scooters?

  1. Do I need a license to ride a scooter?

    Every province has different licensing requirements with respect to scooter riding. Below you will find an alphabetical list of provincial Ministry of Transport websites that offer a full explanation of license types and required tests.


  2. What safety gear do I need to wear on a scooter?

    Safety should always be a priority - and scootering should always be fun! First, be sure to always wear a DOT approved helmet. The helmet is the most important investment that you can make, so speak to a sales representative that can help you make the right choice. Riding jackets are important because they protect your torso, chest, back and arms. Many jackets have multiple layers and are comfortable to wear in hot or cool conditions. Do not forget to buy a pair of gloves. Your hands should be protected at all times, not only from the elements but also from the road should you slip or fall. Shoes that cover your ankles are also highly recommended. Goggles, rain gear, disk brake locks, wireless brake lights, and plenty of other items are available at dealerships and can make your riding experience safer and more enjoyable.

  3. Can you ride your scooter on the sidewalk?

    Scooters are vehicles intended to be driven on public roads with valid licenses. We do not recommend that you ride it on the sidewalk - leave that space for the pedestrians!

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  4. Where can I park my scooter?

    Parking by-laws differ in cities across Canada. There are many municipalities that allow you to park your scooter on the sidewalk, or offer FREE parking. The city of Toronto has offered free parking for motorcycles and scooters since 2005 with great success (see www.toronto.ca/legdocs/bylaws/2005/law0928.pdf for a copy of the by-law amendment). If your municipality does not offer free parking for two-wheeled vehicles, send a letter to your city councilor!

  5. How fast will my scooter go?

    As fast as you twist the throttle! But seriously, the speed of your scooter depends on its displacement (see "what does 'cc' stand for"). The higher the displacement, the more powerful the engine. For example, the People S 125 (which is 124.6cc) can attain speeds of just over 100km/h. But be sure to abide by all of the posted speed limits!

  6. Can I take my scooter on the highway?

    Some provinces stipulate a minimum displacement to be able to ride on a highway, others simply state that you must be able to keep up with the flow of traffic. Generally, scooters that are above 150cc can reach highway speeds, but 250cc + is recommended. For KYMCO scooters that you can take on the highway, check out the People S 200, the Bet&Win 150/250, the Frost 200i, and the Xciting 500Ri.

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  7. Do scooters require a lot of maintenance?

    Not at all! Be sure to check the maintenance schedule in your Owner's Manual so as not to skip oil changes or other services at their specific intervals. It is recommended that you take your KYMCO scooter to your local authorized KYMCO dealer for the required services. This will ensure that your warranty remains in tact for the full 2 years.

  8. Can I take a passenger with me on a scooter?

    If your scooter is equipped with two-passenger seating then you can ride with a passenger. Always ensure that your passenger is wearing proper safety gear. All KYMCO scooters offer two-passenger seating with designated foot pegs.

  9. How much is scooter insurance?

    Scooter insurance is very affordable especially when compared to car insurance. Rates vary depending on your province, driving record, and age.

  10. What is a limited speed motorcycle?

    Limited speed motorcycle (LSM) is a term used to describe a scooter that is 49cc or less and does not exceed 70 km/h. In the KYMCO Canada line up, the Vitality, Sento, People S 50 and Super 9 AC are all considered LSMs.

  11. How do I know which scooter fits into my lifestyle?

    If you live in a downtown area or plan on using your scooter just to jot down to the corner store, then any of our 50cc models will be sufficient (the Vitality, Sento, People S 50 or Super 9 AC). However, if you plan on travelling on roads with average speeds of 70km/h or more, you should consider a 125cc or higher (People S 125/200, Bet&Win 150/250, Frost 200i). Maxi scooters such as the Xciting 500Ri are specifically designed for longer highway rides. Talk with a sales representative to go over the many features and benefits of each model to find the bike that is right for your lifestyle.

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  12. What are scooter clubs and how do I find them in my area?

    Scooter clubs are usually a group of scooter riders. Many of these clubs have an online presence with forums and organize regular "meet ups". Ask your local dealer about clubs in the area, or jump online and do a quick Google search!

  13. What does "cc" stand for?

    "CC" stands for cubic centimeters. It is a unit that measures the displacement of the bike. The displacement tells you the size of the motor. The higher the cc, the bigger and more powerful the motor. The KYMCO Canada line up offers everything from low-range 49cc scooters to mid-range 125cc to 250cc scooters, and of course the Xciting 500Ri maxi scooter.

  14. What is a "CVT" transmission?

    "CVT" stands for constantly variable transmission. It allows the motor to stay at a constant RPM and seamlessly fluctuate output speeds. This type of transmission eliminates the need to shift gears - on a KYMCO scooter it's as easy as twisting the throttle and riding!

  15. What is the difference between air cooled and liquid cooled?

    Just that! An air cooled motor has a fan which constantly cools the engine, while a liquid cooled motor has coolant flowing through it via radiator and water pump system resulting in the coolant maintaining a constant temperature for optimum performance.

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  16. What is the difference between 2 and 4 stroke?

    The stroke refers to the numbers of cycles of the piston so what a 4-stroke does in 4 cycles, the 2 stroke does in only 2. In a 4 stroke engine, a power stroke occurs in every second revolution of the crank, whereas in a two stroke it occurs in every revolution.

    2 stroke engines require an oil/gas mixture and generally make more power than 4 strokes of the same displacement. They are quite easy to repair and are preferred in the industry for smaller cc motors because they can achieve higher top speeds with smaller displacements.

    4 stroke engines are generally more environmentally friendly because they don't consume any oil. They are also known to have a longer lifespan and are more reliable in larger cc motors.

  17. Am I reducing my carbon footprint by riding a gas scooter instead of an electric one?

    Yes! In all motorized vehicles, the battery is the most toxic part. It contains heavy metals such as mercury, lead, and cadmium, and harmful chemicals such as phosphates and acids. The batteries in electric scooters are much bigger and can wear quicker than those in gas-powered bikes. Many electric scooters are also limited in performance which makes them suitable for short distances only. Gas-powered scooters are much more powerful and versatile, so a scooter can practically replace your need for a car for the entire riding season. When doing your research, ask about the estimated lifespan of the vehicle in question and do your best to choose a low-emission vehicle that will accommodate most of your transportation needs.

  18. Do I need to "winterize" my scooter, and what exactly does that mean?

    Absolutely! "Winterizing" is simply a term used to describe the process of putting your scooter away for the winter season. It is a good idea to add fuel stabilizer to your fuel tank which will keep the fuel from going bad over the course of our long Canadian winters. It is also recommended that the oil be changed, as oils will tend to absorb moisture over time. Be sure to use a battery maintainer to keep it topped up over the winter months OR completely remove the battery from your scooter and store it indoors in a warm, dry place. Do not put your battery on concrete as it will damage the unit. If this is all too much for you, don't worry - your local authorized KYMCO dealer can assist you with all your "winterizing" needs!

  19. Are there training courses specifically for scooters?

    Training courses specifically for scooters are starting to pop up across the country. KYMCO Canada's preferred scooter training course in the GTA is the Humber College Motorcycle Training Institute which offers scooter training on KYMCO's very own Super 9 AC scooters! Check your own local training institutions or colleges for motorcycle or scooter training information.

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