Considering a used stella for daily 20 mile commute

[Oneseventeen]

I live 20 miles from work and am looking for a fuel efficient vehicle since I have no intention of moving or chainging jobs.

I found a used 2005 Stella for $1,000 with 6,000 miles on it that has just received a tune up from a local Vespa shop. (owners are moving and downsizing their "stuff")

I don't mind tinkering to an extent, as long as there is a way for me to learn without paying too much for a mechanic to walk me through stuff.

Would a Stella be a good first time scooter for a 40 mile daily commute averaging 45 MPH? How long can I expect a 2005 Stella to last me if I take care of it?

I have found generic no-name 150cc scooters for $1,300 online, but I like the idea of a scooter I can find parts for locally.

Tips, advice, warnings? Anything too much higher than $1,000 and it will take way too long to recoup on fuel savings. (which is my long term goal)

[mjhoward]

Sustained 45mph for the Stella is no problem at all. They are pretty reliable too, at least in general. jmkjr72 had a problem with his seizing up though, but I think thats completely out of the norm for a Genuine scoot. You are MUCH better off not going with a generic chinese scoot. If you take care of it, you should be able to rack up the mileage without much worry. I've read of scooters with over 40K miles and I'm sure there are higher mileage ones out there. The great thing is, if they ever fail, they are MUCH cheaper to fix than a car.

[Oneseventeen]

Awesome! Thanks for the tips.

We were nervous that scooters might have a lower life span.
Based on my commute and the fact that I would ride in bad weather, the one I am looking at should last me at least 5 years. I imagine I could also replace the engine for cheaper than a new scooter, if they are available.