Scooters vs Motorcycles: Which Is Better in the UAE

One can instantly distinguish a scooter from a motorcycle at first glance. On the one hand, they both belong to the two-wheeler family. Yet, they are so different at the core. It’s like comparing a golf cart to a rally car: same wheels, very different experience. What’s the fundamental difference between a motorcycle and a scooter and are scooters safer than motorbikes? Let’s find out together.

What is a motorcycle and a scooter?

A motorcycle is an engine-driven vehicle on two wheels. The engine is located in the middle of the frame and a gas tank is placed above it. To sit on a motorbike, a rider needs to swing their legs over the seat and take a slightly forward-leaning sitting position. The engine capacity lies in the wide range between 200cc and 1000cc. Motorcycles are typically larger and more powerful compared to scooters as they are created for high-speed and long-distance rides.

A scooter also has two wheels but this is where their similarities end. The frame is what sets this vehicle apart: a step-through chassis and a footrest platform are the main features that can never be found in a motorcycle. A rider places their feet comfortably on the footrest while sitting upright. Scooters usually have a “twist and go” automatic transmission (CVT) and the brakes are found on the handlebar, so there is no need to apply a clutch when slowing down. These vehicles generally have smaller engines ranging from 150cc to 300cc.

To decide which is better, a bike or scooty, see more distinctions below.

Key differences

In fact, aside from the two wheels, scooters and motorcycles have little in common. Step by step, we will break down their distinct features and specs so that you can solve for yourself the “scooter versus motorcycle” dilemma.

Variety of styles

In fact, there are too many different types of motorcycles to even count. Very broadly, they can be divided into off-road and on-road categories. The latter is a large group that strikes imaginations with its variety: standard, nakeds, sports, dual-purpose, cruisers, roadsters, touring bikes, touring enduro, and other subcategories.

When it comes to scooters, their categorization is limited to the size of the engine. Low- and mid-range vehicles (between 50cc and 250cc) are known as normal scooters. Models with a bigger engine displacement (from 250cc to 850cc) are categorized as maxi scooters. Besides, there is no such thing as an off-road scooter as they are all meant to be used on asphalt roads.

In terms of variety in the scooters vs bikes debate, the former lose out as they can only offer different engine sizes, while the concept stays largely the same.

Weight and size

Scooters are much lighter and smaller than motorcycles. A model with a 50cc engine can weigh between 80-100 kg, while more powerful models will weigh around 120-150 kg. In contrast, motorcycles, even the lightest ones, typically start at around 120-130 kg. Larger bikes with engine displacements above 500-600cc can be as heavy as 180-200 kg.

This makes scooters more compact and, therefore, easier to handle and park in the city. Being lighter, they are often seen as a safer alternative to bikes. When thinking in terms of “scooter vs big bike,” you should consider your riding experience in the first place. For beginners, the latter might not be the best choice.

Wheelbase and wheel size

Compared to motorcycles, scooters have a shorter wheelbase – around 1200–1300 mm, while most motorcycles range from 1400 mm to 1600 mm or more. This helps scooters turn more sharply and move easily through tight spaces, like traffic or narrow streets. In contrast, a longer wheelbase gives motorcycles better stability at high speeds.

Naturally, a smaller vehicle has smaller wheels. For scooters, it is usually between 8 and 13 inches in diameter. On the other hand, motorcycles have larger wheels, typically ranging from 17 to 21 inches which makes it easier for them to handle bumps and rough roads.

Power and top speed

For those who wonder, “Are scooters safer than bikes?” consider this. Motorcycles tend to have more powerful engines and require certain skills to manage them. Heavyweight bikes can have power ratings of 50-65 horsepower or more. In the meantime, small scooters usually have a power output of 5 hp, while larger models can reach 15-20 hp.

In terms of maximum speed, scooters with engine displacement of 50cc can reach speeds of up to 50 km/h. More powerful models can go as fast as 90-120 km/h. Meanwhile, motorcycles, especially those with engine displacements of 500-600cc, can accelerate up to 150-170 km/h or higher.

Fuel efficiency

In this category, scooters finally take the lead. As a rule, an average scooter would consume from 1.5 to 3 liters per 100 kilometers. This would be a great way to save on fuel which is getting expensive every day.

On the other hand, motorcycle fuel consumption starts at 3-4 liters per 100 kilometers for models with a 250cc engine. As engine power rises, so does gasoline consumption. Therefore, for urban commuters, cost-effectiveness may be the number one reason why scooters are better than motorcycles.

Ease of use

The reason why scooters are so popular all over the world is their simplicity. They mostly come with an automatic transmission that does not require manual gear shifting. What is more, both brakes are integrated into levers on the handlebars (on the left and right sides), similar to bicycle brakes. All this makes scooters easier to handle and quicker to learn.

In contrast, motorcycles have a clutch, or manual transmission, that requires a rider to shift gears manually, which is usually done with the right leg. Besides, motorbikes have rear brakes controlled by a pedal that requires pressure from the right foot, while the front brakes are operated by a lever on the right handlebar. So, in the motorbike vs scooter comparison, the latter are winning again.

Ease of learning

When it comes to scooters vs motorcycles, scooters are definitely easier to learn. In fact, they are intentionally designed to be beginner-friendly and they often don’t require some sophisticated training. As mentioned above, they have automatic transmission and simple controls, so you can start riding after just a few lessons. They are often described as a “hop-on-and-go” type of ride.

By contrast, motorcycles take more time to learn. It may take you several weeks of consistent practice just to become proficient in the basics. You need to learn how to shift gears and handle the bike at high speeds. It can take weeks or even months to feel confident.

Comfort and riding positions

The scooter and bike difference is especially evident when it comes to rider comfort. On a scooter, you sit upright with your feet on a flat platform and you maintain an upright posture similar to sitting in a chair while holding onto the handlebars. Besides, it’s easy to get on and off, even in casual clothes and non-riding outfits such as skirts, coats, or long jackets.

The story is different with motorcycles. They are sportier by nature and require a completely different sitting position. To mount a bike, you need to swing your leg over the seat and then lean forward to ride, which is better for speed but can be tiring. Also, you’ll need special gear such as pants, boots, gloves, a jacket, and a helmet of course. The latter should be always used for both scooters and bikes.

Safety

We’ve mentioned the safety aspect several times already but let’s sum it up here. Is a scooter safer than a motorcycle? In many ways, it is. Scooters are smaller, slower, less powerful, and, therefore, easier to handle. Their center of gravity is set low thanks to their frame design, which helps maintain the rider's balance and makes them less prone to tipping over, especially during low-speed maneuvers.

Motorcycles are faster and more powerful, and this makes them riskier. They also weigh much more and this extra weight means motorcycles take longer to stop and are harder to control during sudden maneuvers. Combined with their higher speeds, this increases the risk in everyday traffic.

Cost and Maintenance

Looking at motor scooter vs motorcycle costs — scooters win. They cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Yet, a good scooter will still be much cheaper than a good motorcycle. It is possible to get a brand-new vehicle for around $1,000-$2,000, and a pre-owned one will cost you even less than that.

At the same time, the price for a decent motorbike will usually start at $2,000 and can go up to as much as $300,000 for some custom models. On top of that, motorcycles are more expensive in terms of maintenance because they are built for higher performance, which means they often have more advanced and expensive components that need regular maintenance and replacement.

Popular scooter and motorcycle models in the UAE

Both of the categories have ample offerings in the UAE market. Sharmax Motors, the Italian manufacturer based in Dubai, has a wide range of bike models that can be found in its official online catalog. Some top-selling models among bikes include the RR 301 Ultra road bike and the GP 881 Ultra super sport. These high-performance machines will appeal to experienced riders and speed lovers. All models are available for a test ride in all Sharmax showrooms.

The Sharmax Scooter Tank 150 is a compact and agile option that can often be seen on the streets of Dubai. Its affordability in both price and maintenance makes it popular among beginners. Larger versions are represented by the maxi scooter series. For example, the Sharmax Maxi Scooter FX 350 Ultra offers more power, speed and more luggage space under the seat.

What is better to choose – scooters or motorcycles – for traveling around the UAE

The difference between a motorcycle and a scooter boils down to two key things: comfort and affordability. These two vehicles serve different purposes. A scooter is here to simply take you around the area safely but slowly. A motorbike is here to make you feel the speed and more control of the ride. While we can confidently say that scooters are for everyone, we can't say the same about bikes.

For traveling around the UAE, motorbikes will be the top priority if you plan to travel between cities and off the highways. Scooters are not fit for this, they are more practical for urban riding than inter-city travel. Also, consider your experience. If you are just getting started behind the wheel, go for a scooter to be on the safe side. Later, if you feel the urge for more speed and maneuverability, you can switch to motorbikes at any time.