Many people use the words scooter and motorbike as if they were the same thing, but in reality they are not. The difference lies in details that affect riding, comfort, and the type of journeys you can do. Depending on what you choose, the way you move, the licence you need and even the experience you’ll have when touring a city or an island like Gran Canaria will change.
In the following lines we’ll see what those differences between scooter and motorbike are, the ones worth having clear. The idea is not to get lost in technicalities, but to understand the essentials in order to make the best decision. And if your plan is to move around with agility, enjoy the climate and make the most of every kilometre without worrying too much about traffic, you’ll see why the scooter is often the most practical option.
Key differences between scooter and motorbike
Although they are often put in the same category, scooter and motorbike are not identical. The way you ride them, the design and even the type of engine vary quite a lot from one vehicle to the other. These are the most relevant differences worth bearing in mind.
Vehicle design and structure
Scooters are designed to be practical: lower seat, flat floor to rest your feet and storage space under the saddle. Thanks to this design, it’s easier to get on and off, and to carry everyday objects like an extra helmet or a backpack. On a conventional motorbike, however, the tank takes the central place and forces a different posture, less comfortable for short journeys.
Power and type of engine
Most scooters used in cities have small or medium engine sizes (50cc, 125cc, 300cc), enough to move around without needing much power. Motorbikes, on the other hand, are usually available in a much wider range and with engines designed for long-distance travel or higher speed.
Fuel consumption and range
The scooter consumes little and performs well in urban journeys. Its smaller engine makes each litre go further, which translates into fuel savings. On motorbikes with larger engines, consumption tends to rise considerably, especially in the city.
Ease of riding and manoeuvrability
Scooters are designed to make riding simple even for people with little experience. The gear is automatic, which avoids worrying about shifting, and their compact size helps to manoeuvre in heavy traffic or park in small spaces. With a motorbike, on the other hand, handling requires more practice and some skill.
Load capacity and comfort
One of the big advantages of the scooter is its integrated storage space. Carrying a helmet, a jacket or even a small shopping bag is not a problem. In addition, the seat is usually wide and comfortable for urban or tourist trips. On motorbikes, unless you add accessories such as side cases, the load capacity is quite limited.
Advantages of choosing a scooter in Gran Canaria
In the city, scooters have the upper hand. A scooter is agile, takes up little space and is easy to park. For short or medium journeys, it’s hard to find something more practical.
Another of its strengths is how easy it is to ride. With automatic transmission, you just accelerate and brake, without worrying about gears. This makes it accessible even for those with little experience on two wheels. Plus, it doesn’t consume much: its engine is designed to move at a good pace in urban environments without wasting fuel.
In tourist areas like Maspalomas, a scooter also gives you freedom. You can move at your own pace, reach the beach, get close to the dunes or tour the area without depending on timetables or struggling with parking. All with a comfortable, lightweight vehicle, ideal for those who want to enjoy the ride rather than complicate themselves with the driving.
What licence do you need to ride a scooter in Spain?
Before getting on a scooter you need to know what licences the law requires. Not all models need the same licence, and the difference lies in the engine size and the experience you have behind the wheel. Spanish legislation is quite specific on this point, so let’s review the options, both for residents and for those visiting the country temporarily.
AM and A1 licence
The AM licence allows you to ride mopeds of up to 50cc and is the most basic of all. You can get it from the age of 15, although with this licence you’ll only be able to ride low-powered scooters, designed for short trips and limited speed.
The next level is the A1 licence, which authorises you to ride scooters up to 125cc. It can be obtained from the age of 16 and is one of the most common in cities because it offers a good balance: light vehicles, easy to handle and with enough speed to move confidently both in urban areas and on secondary roads.
B licence with 3 years’ experience
Those who have a car licence can also ride scooters up to 125cc, provided they have held the B licence for at least three years. This is one of the most common options, as it allows many drivers to use a scooter without needing to obtain a specific motorbike licence. In practice, this opens the door to moving more freely in the city and enjoying a more agile alternative to the car.
Options for tourists and foreigners
If you visit Spain with a licence issued in another European Union country, you can ride scooters under the same conditions as a local resident. In the case of licences issued outside the EU, it is advisable to also carry an international licence to avoid problems. In any case, validity will depend on the regulations of each country and the agreements that exist with Spain, so it’s always worth checking before travelling to make sure your licence is recognised.
Why renting a scooter in Maspalomas is an excellent option
Getting around Maspalomas on a scooter makes a lot of sense. The distances between the beach, the lighthouse, the dunes and the leisure areas are not long, but by car they can become a headache due to traffic or lack of parking. With a scooter you move quickly, get to the very door of your destination and make better use of your time.
In addition, a scooter allows you to improvise. You might want to head over to Playa del Inglés, climb to a nearby viewpoint or stroll along the promenade without rushing. With a scooter you can do it without depending on timetables, without spending too much and with the freedom to stop wherever you like. For those visiting Gran Canaria, renting this type of vehicle is not just a practical matter: it’s a way of experiencing the island with more flexibility and fewer limitations.
In Maspalomas you can see it for yourself. At Scooter and Bike Rental you’ll find scooters perfect for moving around the island at your own pace and without worrying about traffic or parking. A simple and comfortable way to enjoy Gran Canaria on two wheels!
