For riders who want something stylish, unique, and budget-friendly, the stretched out scooter has become an exciting choice. Its low-profile design, long wheelbase, and eye-catching stance make it stand out in traffic. Many riders compare the look to a custom chopper motorcycle, but with the ease of use and fuel efficiency of a scooter. If you’re a beginner considering this type of scooter, there are a few key things you should know before making the purchase.
Whether you are looking for a daily commuter, a fun weekend ride, or even comparing it with a cheap new chopper, this guide breaks down the essentials to help you make the right decision.
What Is a Stretched Out Scooter?
A stretched out scooter is essentially a scooter designed with an elongated frame, giving it a low and stretched appearance. It’s often inspired by the Honda Ruckus style but with modifications that make it longer and more custom-looking. Many stretched scooters also come with larger tires, unique body kits, and options for upgrades.
They combine the comfort of scooters with the aggressive styling of motorcycles, making them a favorite among riders who want something practical yet stylish.
Why Beginners Are Interested in Stretched Out Scooters
For new riders, a stretched out scooter has some clear advantages:
- Easy to Ride – Unlike a motorcycle that requires learning clutch control, most stretched scooters are automatic, which makes them beginner-friendly.
- Stylish Look – Beginners often want something that feels exciting and cool. The stretched stance gives off a mini chopper vibe.
- Affordable Price – Compared to buying a motorcycle, or even a cheap new chopper, stretched scooters are often much more budget-friendly.
- Custom Potential – Many stretched scooters allow you to add personal touches like LED lights, bigger tires, or performance exhausts.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Stretched Out Scooter
Before you head out and grab a stretched scooter, here are the most important points beginners should keep in mind:
1. Engine Size
Stretched scooters come in different engine sizes, usually 50cc, 125cc, and 150cc.
- 50cc – Best for short city rides, low speeds, and fuel efficiency. Great for beginners who don’t need highway power.
- 125cc–150cc – Offers more speed and power. These are better if you want a balance between city commuting and longer rides.
If you’re comparing with a cheap new chopper, note that choppers usually start at higher engine sizes, making scooters the better entry-level choice.
2. Comfort and Riding Position
The stretched design lowers the seat and extends the foot area. Beginners should test how comfortable they feel sitting in that position. Some riders love the laid-back feel, while others prefer a more upright scooter stance.
3. Speed and Legal Use
- In many places, 50cc scooters don’t require a motorcycle license, which makes them appealing to beginners.
- If you go with a 150cc stretched scooter, check local laws because you may need a motorcycle license or endorsement.
This is important for beginners so you don’t end up with a scooter you can’t legally ride.
4. Maintenance and Parts
One reason stretched scooters are popular is that they are easy to maintain. Parts are affordable and widely available. Unlike a cheap new chopper, which may require specific motorcycle parts and servicing, most stretched scooters can be maintained at low cost.
5. Budget
Price is one of the top reasons people look at stretched scooters. Depending on the model, they can range from $1,200 to $2,500.
Compared to a cheap new chopper, which often costs more to purchase and maintain, stretched scooters provide a lower entry point for beginners.
Customization Options
One of the biggest draws of a stretched scooter is the chance to customize. Beginners can make their scooter unique without breaking the bank. Some popular modifications include:
- LED light kits for night rides.
- Custom exhausts for better sound and performance.
- Fat tires for a tougher look.
- Seat upgrades for comfort.
These small changes can give you the same satisfaction riders get from modifying a cheap new chopper, but at a fraction of the cost.
Safety Tips for Beginners
If you’re planning to buy your first stretched scooter, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Wear Proper Gear – Even though scooters are small, always wear a helmet, gloves, and protective clothing.
- Practice in a Safe Area – Get used to the stretched position before heading into busy traffic.
- Check Local Laws – Know whether your scooter requires registration, insurance, or a special license.
- Regular Maintenance – Keep tires, brakes, and oil in check to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
