WHAT TO BUY AND WHAT NOT TO BUY for a newbie

[pocketrocketnewbie]

I AM IN THE MARKET FOR MY FIRST SCOOTER AND IM STARTING OUT WITH 50CC. preferably something in nice shape but used would be ok unless there is a good low price on a new one.
MY QUESTION IS....WHAT DO I BUY THAT IS WORTHY OF LESS BREAK DOWNS AND BEST FEATURE( i can add some features later) AND WARRANTY STUFF??
I have been hearing that i should stay away from chinese made scooters..is this true??
WHO HAS A LIST OF WHAT COUNTRY THE SCOOTERS COME FROM??
I am in Mpls/St Paul area in Minnesota. I am finding all sorts of good deals on craigslist.
I LOOK FORWARD TO THE REPLIES. thank you

[pukame2]

Welcome to the Forum!!!! ;D

I would recommend that you get the better 150cc versions like Tank or the like (The more established rides).

Most Chinese 50cc scooters lack the quality that the popular 150cc series have gained. You may find the 50cc to be slightly underpowered. The 150cc scooters have shown better quality improvements; one gets a better bike for a few hundred more.

Good riding.

[newc77]

Unless you really want/like a small scooter, I agree the 150 would be a better starter.
If you are looking for low priced China imports I recommend the Taichou Zhongnen line of bikes, often called "Znen". They include marketed as "Lance" "Fly" "Bandit" and "Viva". You will find much posted here on these and tons of others.
How much do you have to spend and what will you use the scooter for? This will influence what can be offered here for your knowledge.
Post your info and good luck in your search,
Tom