Seeking advice regarding scooters. (and/or cheap motorcycles)

[Blastoise1994]

So basically I'm a 20 year old male living in Texas. My parents kicked me out and I've been living with a roommate for close to a year now, and my roommate will be starting college again soon, meaning they won't be able to drive me to work anymore.

So I started looking into getting a car. No matter what vehicle I use, my quote always comes out around $200 monthly for even basic coverage. So what can I do?

I started looking into getting a scooter. Got a quote of around $70 down $35/mo for mid-level coverage, and basic was even cheaper, so I figure this is probably what I'll go for. It's gonna' suck having to tool around on a hopped up Vespa for four years while I wait for my insurance to drop, but I guess you just have to take what you get.

 

Now for the meat of the topic: I'm looking for advice from members here who currently/previously have used a scooter or low-powered motorcycle for daily transportation. Looking to learn about obtaining a license, good models to look out for, whether or not the cheap Chinese scooters are worth looking into at all, and just any general advice you can give me.

 

Looking for something 150cc or bigger and reliable enough to drive about twelve miles a day give or take. Budget is about $500-$600 for the initial payment, willing to pay for a few minor repairs. Scooter must be able to carry a 6'4" 330 or so lb person. Already looking into Honda Elite 150 and 250. Thanks in advance!