Best Maxi-Scooter for the MacArthur, Tuttle & 79th St. Causeways
Posted 45–55 mph. ABS, real horsepower, and a wind fairing matter at that speed. Here's what we recommend, in three price tiers.
Why displacement matters on the causeway
A 50cc tops at 30 mph — unsafe and often illegal at posted causeway speeds. A 150cc can keep up, but is working hard. 250cc and up is the genuine answer for daily causeway commuting, with passing power, ABS, and a fairing that breaks the wind.
The right scooter, in three tiers
| Tier | Scooter | Top speed | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry — does the job | Genuine Buddy 170i | 55 mph | $3,499 |
| Mid — comfortable daily | SYM Citycom S 300i | 83 mph | $5,499 |
| Mid — comfortable daily | Kymco Downtown GT 350i | ~90 mph | $6,599 |
| Premium — the right tool | Vespa GTS 300 | 80 mph | $7,199–$8,499 |
| Flagship — the BMW killer | Kymco AK 550i Premium | 100+ mph | $11,099 |
What to look for
- ABS — non-negotiable. Wet asphalt at 55 mph plus a car opening a door is the worst-case Miami scenario.
- Real horsepower for passing — 20+ hp.
- A fairing to break wind. Riding upright at 55 mph for 8 miles every morning is exhausting without one.
- Traction control on premium maxis — useful in summer storms.
- Storage — under-seat space for a laptop bag or full-face helmet.
License
Every scooter on this page is >50cc, which means you need a Florida motorcycle endorsement plus motorcycle insurance. Details on Florida scooter laws.
Brickell to South Beach across the MacArthur every morning? The SYM Citycom S 300i is the price-performance winner. 83 mph, freeway-legal, 84 MPG, ceramic-coated bore, 24-month unlimited-mile warranty at $5,499. Thousands less than a Yamaha XMAX or Honda Forza.