Frequently Asked Questions

About Your Scooter ?

Why are your scooter prices so low?
We supply our own brand of scooters direct to the customer, cutting out the middle man. This means we can supply high quality scooters at very competitive prices.
Should I choose a 50cc or 125cc petrol scooter?
50cc - 50cc scooters are restricted to 30 miles per hour. This is ideal for short journeys, nipping around town, getting into central London. The minimum age requirement is 16.
125cc - If you're an advanced rider or need to go on roads above 30mph and for longer journeys, a 125cc scooter is more suitable. They are not restricted and can reach 60 mph. You need to be 17 to ride one.
Two stroke or four stroke engine?
All our scooters are supplied with four stroke engines. With four stroke machines you can use unleaded petrol, have better fuel economy and lower overall emission levels. Two stroke engines you will need to mix oil and petrol before use.
Are your scooters Euro 5?
All our scooters comply with the latest Euro 5 requirements for road use in the UK and throughout Europe.
How much will a scooter cost to run?
A typical scooter consumes between 55% and 81% less fuel than a car for the same journey (SMART guide, MCIA 2002). A 125cc machine will typically cost under 10 pence per mile to run. (www.greenconsumerguide.com, Feb 05)
What does de-restriction mean?
A 50cc scooter comes from the factory restricted to 30 mph. If you are 17 or over with a full bike licence / CBT test, you can have the scooter de-restricted. The restrictors on the scooter are taken out; the scooter is no longer classed as a moped. It will usually go 10 - 20mph faster. Please note we do not advise or recommend de-restriction as it will void your warranty and you will need to inform relevant parties of any such modifications.
Where can I get parts?
All parts are available. You can order them by emailing part@scooter.co.uk
Are your scooters manufactured in the U.K. ?
We are a UK company and to keep costs low our scooters are manufactured abroad in China and imported to the UK. Some models are assembled in the UK before being sent direct to you.

Payment and Delivery ?

How can I pay for my scooter?
We accept all major credit cards.
How long does delivery take?
Standard Delivery takes approximately three working days from processing the order. We can also offer Next Working Day Delivery and Saturday Delivery. Orders are processed at 11am each working day. If you have placed a pre-order, the eta date is the date the scooter is estimated to arrive to us. From arrival to us the scooter order will be processed and then despatched within approximately 7 working days.
How do I know when my scooter is being delivered?
With Standard deliveries our courier will contact you prior to delivery by phone. Next day delivery and Saturday delivery will be made on the day without any prior contact.
Do your prices include VAT?
Yes - all our prices are fully inclusive of VAT.
What are your delivery charges?
Delivery charges start at £100 for delivery to mainland England and Wales.
Delivery charges are as follows:
Region Standard Delivery Next Working Day Saturday Delivery
Mainland England & Wales £100 £150 £150
Isle of Wight £170 N/A N/A
Scottish Lowlands £170 £220 £220
Scottish Highlands £200 £250 £250
Channels Islands £200 N/A N/A
Can I collect my scooter?
All our scooters are delivered via our own courier within approximately 3 working days. For security we do not offer customer collections.

Safety And Security ?

Do I need to carry out any tests on my scooter?
No, your scooter is already EEC tested and approved. You are supplied separately by us a certificate of conformity.
Do your scooters come with warranty?
Yes, we supply our scooters with a full 12 Month Parts Warranty. You can choose to extend this by an extra year for just £69.
Can I store a helmet in the scooter?
Yes you can store most open face helmets under the seat - the storage on all our motor scooters is lockable. Always buy the best helmet your budget allows
How do I keep my scooter safe?
To ensure the safety of your scooter always lock it to an immovable object whether at home or when out. Consider security tagging your scooter and fitting an alarm or immobiliser.
What kind of lock do I need?
Disc locks secure onto the front or rear brake disc making it impossible to ride the scooter. However, if you forget to unlock it, you may damage your scooter when you try to ride off.
Chain locks come in different strengths and sizes. They can be used around a wheel to secure your scooter to an immovable object and prevent it being lifted.
What about insurance?
You can insure your scooter on its VIN whilst awaiting registration. You need at least third party insurance to ride a motor scooter and it is your responsibility to take out cover:
  • Third Party is the cheapest as you're only covered for injuries or damage you do to others or their property.
  • Fire and Theft covers your scooter being set on fire or stolen (and gives cover for third parties).
  • Fully Comprehensive is the most expensive option but covers repairs to your scooter after an accident even if no other parties were involved.
Where can I insure my scooter?
We recommend Scoot Scoot Insurance. Click here www.scooterinsurance.co.uk.

Getting Started ?

Do I need to assemble my scooter?
Most of our scooters come assembled - you simply attach the wing mirrors, battery and free accessories. Upon receipt you will find these items including manual and battery cover under the seat. For safety we do not send with petrol, it is your responsibility to purchase petrol. You will need to assemble any free accessories like screen and top box. With Tommy scooter you are required to assemble handlebars/light/speedo. With Venom scooter you are required to remove the wedges from the brake levers before use. Your scooter or motorcycle will need to be set up by an approved service centre before use. You will need to purchase a suitable battery charger to charge and connect the battery. You will need to carry out routine checks on your scooter or motorcycle throughout its use. You may need a spanner and pliers to remove the scooter from packaging. We have videos for assemble your scooter, please contact us for these.
How do I register my scooter?
All our scooters are handily supplied with a registration pack separately by first class post for security within approx 7 working days of receiving your scooter. Simply follow the instructions and submit to the DVLA (registration costs £55 and road tax £26 per year).We always advise check the current charges with the DVLA as sometimes these may vary. Registration times depend on the DVLA.
Why do we not supply our scooters registered?
By registering the scooter before the scooter is sold makes the scooter second hand, you become the second owner. This significantly reduces the value of your scooter. We only sell new scooters where you are the first owner.
How do I get my number plate number?
You will receive your licence plate number and log book once registration is complete.
Do I need to tax my scooter?
Yes, you will need to purchase road tax (£26 per year). Ask at your Post Office.
Do I need to service my scooter?
Yes, for continued use and safety regular servicing is required by an approved service centre. Service periods are due at distance travelled or time period of ownership, whichever is sooner; 300km / 2 months of ownership for first service, 1000km / 6 months of ownership for second service, 3000km / 12 months of ownership for third service and every 3000kms / 6 months of ownership subsequently.
Do you offer scooter repairs?
Yes we do. We can arrange collection of your scooter and repairs can take up to approximately 60 working days.
Where can I service or repair my scooter?
Direct Bikes have over 200 approved service centres throughout the UK. Details of your local approved service centre are supplied to existing customers upon request.
Do I need to take a test to drive a scooter?
50cc - You don't need to take any further tests if you have a full UK driving licence taken before 1st February 2001. Otherwise you will need to take a CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) test.
125cc - Yes, you will need to take a CBT test at your local CBT test centre.
What is the CBT?
The CBT is a full day's training with an instructor. It teaches important safety theory and riding skills. It includes practicing manoeuvres on site, learning about road craft, road conditions and hazards, and going onto the road with the instructor advising by radio link.
You need to obtain a UK provisional driving licence before taking the CBT course, if you don't already have a full one. After successful completing it, you'll receive a certificate valid for two years. You'll then need to retake your CBT and/or take a full motorcycle test.
For more details, visit: www.gov.uk/government/organisations/driver-and-vehicle-licensing-agency
What are the age/driving licence restrictions?
50cc - You need to be at least 16 to drive a 50cc scooter and have a provisional UK licence. Once you've taken your CBT, you can ride a 50cc scooter with 'L' plates. You can't take passengers or drive on motorways until you have a full UK motorcycle licence.
If you have a full UK driving licence taken before Feb 2001 no further tests are needed. Holders of a full UK driving licence also do not need to have 'L' plates.
125cc - you need to be at least 17. You need a full UK driving licence and a CBT. You can then ride with 'L' plates until you obtain your full UK motorcycle licence. You can't take passengers or drive on motorways until you have your full UK motorcycle licence
For more details, visit: www.gov.uk/government/organisations/driver-and-vehicle-licensing-agency

On The Road ?

Where can I park?
You can park in a designated bike park, on private property (if you have permission), in a car park with space set aside for bikes and on a public road, subject to the same rules and restrictions as cars. You can't park on the pavement or in bus lanes. Bike parks are usually free, as are some residents' and Pay and Display bays.
Can I ride in bus lanes?
You may only ride in a bus lane during the times displayed on the signs.
Do I need to wear a helmet and protective clothing?
Yes, you need always to wear a helmet and recommend protective clothing to ensure safety.
Will I need to pay the Congestion Charge?
In a nutshell - no!