What makes a scooter a scooter?

[MrGrumpy]

Dumb question from a none biker. Why would you have/want/need a dummy fuel tank?

Because it looks / feels like a real one, so reassures bikers that their steed isn't too different to a Norton Commando or something. Yes...weird isn't it!

[MrGrumpy]

isnt the t max a scooter

because you cant step through it

Yes you can....just.

[bornagainbiker]

I always step through my Burgman 650.

[Zed]

dummy fuel tank?

something to grab with my knees to keep the bike steady in high crosswinds and when leaning off in turns.

That's why I'd class scooters as: things you step thru, and/or can't use you knees to help lean. I'm sure there are exceptions (especially cruiser example), but most scooters you sort of sit on or in like a chair, while motorcycles you grip more like a horse.

[SpikeOne]

I'm surprised that the DVLA even bother to differentiate! I would have thought everythign with two wheels is a motorcycle with the exception of 50cc, all of which seem to be classed as moped, even tho' they have no "ped"'s as such, and frankly, not much "mo" either...

DVLA thinks my Downtown is a motorcycle.....Hoorah! My niece thinks it's a moped...Boo!