Such a Ruckus: 2008 Honda Ruckus

In the late 90's, reality TV discovered the world of chopper motorcycle customizers and pretty much destroyed it with American Choppers.  Next up was the Cafe Racer craze, but Hollywood wasn't as successful with exploiting that niche.  Maybe the next area to overexpose is the custom scooter scene.  This could be the ticket for your 15 minutes of fame (or infamy). Find this 2008 Honda Ruckus for sale in El Monte, CA for $5,500 via craigslist.

The Honda Ruckus or Zoomer in the rest of the world, is a 50cc scooter who's claim to fame is a more rugged appearance with an exposed frame and off-roady tires.  Powered by a 50cc air-cooled lump mated to a CVT, you won't set any land speed records, but you will avoid spending much time at the pump with a claimed 115 mpg.  Our example here is a 125cc version that obviously has seen a fair bit of action with a customizer - including a real leather seat, so all the usual caveats apply.

Who doesn't like LED lights and big brakes with cross-drilling?  With 125cc's it might be a check that has a hard time being cahsed, but on the plus side there is purple anodized aluminium.

I have a hard time imagining what it's like to ride this scooter.  It kinda makes my back hurt just looking at it.  However the point most likely isn't the riding expereince on a diserted canyon road jut after sunrise, its the look at me while cruising down main street and showing up on FaceGram.

See a better way to cause a commotion? email us here: tips@dailyturismo.com

Gianni is Daily Turismo's Pacific Northwest correspondent.