ScooterWorld Magazine for the Scooter Enthusiast

At ScooterWorld, their goal was to provide something for everyone with a passion for scooters. We sure miss the magazine.
In remembrance, the content below is from the site's 2003 & 2009 archived pages.

 

About Us

ScooterWorld was started by Scooter Enthusiasts in Denver Colorado around 2003.

When we started the magazine, we were newbies; and had just bought our first scooter from Sportique Scooters here in Denver.

Although we've learned a little in the years we've been publishing this magazine, we still like to provide something for Scooter enthusiasts with any level of experience.

And although we're based in Denver, we have people who write for us from all over the country. And, we're always looking for new products and stories to feature, so if you have an idea, definitely get in touch with us.

Here’s our chance to tell you all a little about who we are and why we’re here! Our staff consists of people that saw a lot of these ‘screwy little scooters’ running around all over town and thought they looked like fun. So, one of us went down to the local scooter shop (Sportique Scooters in Denver, Colorado) and bought one! Well, scooter ownership is contagious, and next thing you know, we are all running around town on brand new scooters!

We noticed there were no frequently published magazines that addressed the broad spectrum of scooter enthusiasts. As a result, someone who is new to scooters, or someone that might be interested in buying a scooter, is relegated to either the internet, friend's advice, or whatever his local dealer may recommend. So we thought we could put together a periodical that will help 'newbies' as well as those that have been in the scene for some time. And we can't wait to dig in, and bring to print, what we find!

There are all different types of scooterists in the world, and we will have something for everyone!

When I moved to NYC, I brought my trusty scooter with me. It's easy to park and certainly convenient to zip around the streets in lower Manhattan. I eventually splurged and bought a 2013 BMW C 650 GT for longer distances. It's been great for big-city traffic. I even was able to carry home an oriental carpet I bought at ABC Carpets on it with the help of a friend. 


 

 

2009  ScooterWorld Turns Five!

Five years young, and still providing smart and timely information for the scooter enthusiast. Our Fifth anniversary issue is on the shelves now.

Get Your ScooterWorld Here!

ScooterWorld is now printing more than 14,000 copies of each issue (and growing!), which are distributed through over 200 locations nationwide. If you are interested in distributing the magazine, or to find a location near you where you can pick one up for free, visit our Distribute page.

Of course, you can always just get a subscription to ScooterWorld; that way you'll never miss an issue.

Now available:

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Motor Scooters

Publisher Bev Brinson and Senior Writer Bryce Ludwig have written the definitive guide to getting started with motor scooters. Perfect for gearheads and newbies alike.

Here's how the book is described on its own back cover:

With oil prices soaring and people looking for alternative means of commuter (and cruising) travel, motor scooters have exploded across the country as a viable means of transportation. Here’s the book for both scooter newbies and accustomed riders that includes a complete listing of scooters available by size and power, advice on evaluating and buying scooters, maintenance and customizing, and more.

—Complete list of all manufacturers, road rules, and government regulations

—Written by the founder and senior writer of the premier industry magazine ScooterWorld Magazine

 

FAQ

Why a scooter magazine?
We ask ourselves this question everyday! Well, to be honest, after getting involved with scooters and having as much fun as we do, we wanted to spread the word!
Scootering has so many benefits, how could anyone NOT get involved in scootering.

What kind of gas mileage do scooters get?
Besides the obvious FUN of zipping around town, through curves, down straight-a-ways and then coming to a stop on a dime, scooters are EXTREMELY economical. Some scooters get as much as 125 MPG (YES! That’s MILES per gallon!). That can cut your commuting budget by as much as 80% (depending on what you drive now). Imagine what you could do with all that extra cash each month???

Are scooters complicated to use?
Scooters are easy to operate! Did you know that the highest percentage of scooters sold in the United States don’t require any SHIFTING?? That’s right! Most of the new scooters sold today don’t have a manual transmission. All you do is jump on, start the engine, twist the throttle and GO! It’s a lot easier for those who have never driven a motorcycle or ATV.

Where can I park a scooter?
Free parking???? Yes, in most jurisdictions, it is legal to park a 49cc scooter on the sidewalk, at a bike rack!!! Of course, you will want to check with your local law enforcement entity for verification.

What kind of license do I need for a scooter?
No motorcycle endorsement??? No problem!! Once again check your local and state laws. The majority of states only require a valid driver’s license, insurance, and a nominal registration for 49cc scooters to be driven on roadways. Usually, anything with a larger engine displacement, such as a 600cc scooter requires a motorcycle endoresement, but check your laws.

Aren't scooters slow?
Speed a problem?? Not for scooterists! If your scooter just doesn’t quite fulfill your ‘need for speed’, there are after-market parts that can give your scooter the quickness you desire. There are 125cc scooters that are nimble in the city and legal on highways. There are also big 600cc and 650cc scoots that are fun for touring highways! There’s a scooter out there for EVERYONE.

What kind of scooters are there?
Style important to you??? Scooters HAVE style. No matter what your tastes are, there’s a scooter for you. From the ‘vintage’ Vespas and Lambrettas from the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s to the modern scooters with sporty styling, there’s one with YOUR name on it.
Aren't scooters just a passing fad?
Did you know, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council’s Sales Report new scooter sales in the United States for the year ending 2002 show over 69,000 UNITS were sold!!!! That’s AMAZING compared to the 12,000 units sold in 1997!!

Scooters are popping up everywhere! Celebrities, political figures, your neighbors are all getting involved in scootering. Pick up a copy of Scooter World Magazine and SEE who’s riding them now!

 

 

More Background on ScooterWorld Magazine

ScooterWorldMag.com served as the digital home of ScooterWorld Magazine, a publication that became a cornerstone for scooter enthusiasts across the United States. From its founding in the early 2000s to its final issue in 2010, ScooterWorld Magazine offered a unique blend of technical advice, cultural stories, product reviews, and community engagement. This article provides an in-depth look at the magazine’s history, ownership, content, audience, cultural significance, and lasting impact.

Founding and Ownership

ScooterWorld Magazine was established in Denver, Colorado, around 2003 by a group of passionate scooter enthusiasts. The founding team, including publisher Bev Brinson and senior writer Bryce Ludwig, was inspired by the growing scooter scene in their city and the lack of a dedicated periodical for the community. Their hands-on experience—having purchased their first scooters from Sportique Scooters in Denver—shaped the magazine’s practical and inclusive editorial direction.

Ownership remained with the founding team throughout the magazine’s run. Brinson and Ludwig later co-authored "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Motor Scooters," further establishing their authority and commitment to the scooter world.

Location and Distribution

  • Headquarters: Denver, Colorado

  • Distribution: Nationwide, with over 14,000 copies printed per issue by 2009

  • Availability: Free at more than 200 locations across the U.S.; subscription options were also available for dedicated readers

Despite its local roots, ScooterWorld quickly expanded its reach, becoming a national voice for scooter enthusiasts.

Mission and Goals

ScooterWorld Magazine aimed to provide valuable content for everyone passionate about scooters, regardless of their experience level. The magazine’s goals included:

  • Educating new riders about scooter models, maintenance, and legal requirements

  • Showcasing the diversity of scooter culture, from vintage aficionados to modern commuters

  • Advocating for scooters as practical, economical, and eco-friendly transportation

  • Building community among scooterists nationwide

Content and Features

ScooterWorld Magazine was celebrated for its diverse and practical content, which included:

  • Product Reviews: In-depth, objective reviews of new scooter models, accessories, and aftermarket parts, helping readers make informed purchasing decisions

  • Technical Advice: Step-by-step guides on maintenance, repairs, and customization, catering to both beginners and seasoned DIY enthusiasts

  • Cultural Coverage: Articles on scooter rallies, interviews with prominent figures, and stories capturing the spirit and camaraderie of the scooter lifestyle

  • Legal and Safety Information: Practical guidance on licensing, insurance, and safety regulations, tailored to the complexities of different states

  • Community Stories: Reader submissions, event coverage, and personal anecdotes that fostered a sense of belonging and shared experience

History and Evolution

Founded in 2003, ScooterWorld Magazine filled a significant gap in the market by offering content that appealed to both novice and seasoned scooterists. The early 2000s saw a resurgence in scooter popularity, driven by urbanization and rising fuel costs, making scooters an attractive alternative for city commuting.

The magazine’s comprehensive coverage of the scooter scene—from technical how-tos to cultural insights—helped it grow steadily. By its fifth anniversary in 2009, the magazine was at its peak, with a robust print run and a vibrant community of readers. However, like many print publications, it faced challenges as digital media rose to prominence, ultimately ceasing publication in March 2010.

Audience and Cultural Significance

ScooterWorld Magazine’s audience was as diverse as the scooters it featured:

  • Urban commuters seeking practical, economical transportation

  • Vintage enthusiasts cherishing classic Vespa and Lambretta models

  • DIY mechanics looking for technical guidance and product reviews

  • Community builders interested in rallies, clubs, and scooter events

The magazine played a pivotal role in elevating scooters from mere vehicles to cultural icons. It chronicled the evolution of scooters from their European origins to their adoption by various subcultures, including the Mods of the 1960s. ScooterWorld highlighted how scooters became symbols of freedom, rebellion, and sustainability, particularly among youth and urban dwellers.

Press and Media Coverage

ScooterWorld Magazine received notable media attention both within and outside the scooter community. The founders were frequently interviewed by local and national outlets about the resurgence of scooters and the magazine’s unique approach. The publication was often cited in discussions about alternative transportation trends and the growing popularity of scooters in the U.S.

ScooterWorld’s website extended its reach, offering digital articles, community forums, and an online store. This digital presence helped foster a global audience and sustained engagement even as print circulation waned.

Awards and Recognition

While specific awards are not documented, ScooterWorld Magazine was widely recognized within the scooter community for its:

  • Authoritative reviews and technical content

  • Community-building efforts

  • Influence on scooter culture and advocacy for sustainable transport

Its founders’ subsequent publication of "The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Motor Scooters" further cemented their reputation as leading voices in the industry.

Menus and Special Features

Unlike a restaurant or entertainment venue, ScooterWorld Magazine did not have a traditional "menu." However, its regular features functioned as a curated selection of content, including:

  • Model Spotlights: Detailed breakdowns of new and classic scooter models

  • Accessory Guides: Reviews and recommendations for helmets, storage solutions, and aftermarket parts

  • Event Calendars: Listings of rallies, meetups, and scooter-friendly events nationwide

  • Legal Q&A: Answers to reader questions about licensing, insurance, and regulations

Reviews and Testimonials

ScooterWorld Magazine was highly regarded by its readers. Testimonials often highlighted:

  • The magazine’s role in helping newcomers select the right scooter and accessories

  • Its practical advice on maintenance and customization

  • The sense of community it fostered among enthusiasts

Anecdotes from readers described how the magazine influenced their commuting choices, introduced them to new scooter models, and connected them with like-minded individuals.

Notable Contributors and Staff

  • Bev Brinson (Publisher): Guided the magazine’s editorial vision and co-authored a leading scooter guidebook

  • Bryce Ludwig (Senior Writer): Provided technical expertise and contributed to major scooter publications

  • Guest Writers: Included enthusiasts from across the country, offering diverse perspectives and expertise

Legacy and Ongoing Influence

Although ScooterWorld Magazine ceased publication in 2010, its legacy endures:

  • Influence on Scooter Culture: Helped legitimize and popularize scooters as practical, stylish, and eco-friendly transportation

  • Community Building: Inspired the formation of scooter clubs, forums, and events that continue today

  • Archival Value: Magazine archives remain a valuable resource for enthusiasts seeking historical context and technical guidance

Many former contributors have continued to shape the scooter world through books, blogs, and event organizing, ensuring that the spirit of ScooterWorld lives on.

Cultural and Social Significance

ScooterWorld Magazine was more than a publication—it was a cultural touchstone for the scooter community. By celebrating both the technical and social aspects of scootering, it fostered pride and identity among its readers. The magazine’s advocacy for sustainable transportation and its chronicling of scooter history contributed to the broader acceptance of scooters in American urban life.

 

ScooterWorldMag.com and its parent magazine played a transformative role in the evolution of scooter culture in the United States. Through its dedication to quality content, inclusivity, and community engagement, it helped shape the world of scootering as we know it today. While the magazine is no longer in print, its influence endures in the vibrant communities, events, and resources it helped inspire. For those who experienced the scooter renaissance of the 2000s, ScooterWorld remains a cherished and respected name, remembered fondly for its passion and commitment to the two-wheeled adventure.

 

ScooterWorldMag.com