Fabulous Fifties: 2009 Yamaha Vino Classic

The Yamaha Vino first appeared in 2001 with a two-stroke engine and vintage Italian styling. Nearly a decade later, the Vino is still around, but it's powered by a more emissions-friendly, liquid-cooled, three-valve, 49cc four-stroke Single. It's a tad slower, but this classically styled scoot with chrome accents is still great for running around town. It's easy to ride and park, and under the seat there's lockable storage room for riding gear--including an open-face helmet--or groceries.

Like the other 50s featured here, you'll have to avoid the highway because the Vino has an indicated top speed of 40 mph. Twin drum brakes do a great job of getting the little scooter stopped safely, and the low seat and feathery 155-pound claimed dry weight (much lighter than the futuristic C3) ensure ease-of-use. Like other small-bore scooters, the 1.3 gallon tank and claimed 110 mpg results in a small fuel bill. If you can fill the gas tank and buy a banana with a $5 bill, you're either riding a 50 or living in 1964.

For $2049--less than a roundtrip to Rome--the Vino is fun transportation for not a lot of lire. Che bella!