Steve - with all due respect to Bill, I have to disagree about viewing motorcycles or even scooters as "toys." The term "toy" implies that these powerful machines are playthings that you do not need to take too seriously. IMHO, the exact opposite is true. Nor do I believe they are necessarily as dangerous as some may say. This is from the perspective of someone who has been riding (and commuting by) motorcycles for nearly ten years.
First off, motorcycles are serious machines, much like automobiles are serious machines. Same goes for the larger scooters like the Silverwing. In fact, with the advances in scooter technology, size and displacement, many scooters (including the Silverwing) are as powerful as the mid to large size motorcycles. Almost all of them, in fact, require a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license to operate. The smaller scooters (i.e., those generally around 50cc's or less that can only go up to 25mph) are more for around town errands and use. Since you seem to want to use the vehicle for commuting and other more serious motor vehicle needs, the rest of my comments refer to motorcycles and the scooters of larger size.
That all said, motorcycles and scooters can be excellent alternatives to automobiles. The key is in the attitude of the rider and the understanding of the limits of your two-wheeled transportation. First off, don't simply hop on one and assume you can ride. Riding a two-wheeled motorized vehicle requires a whole separate set of driving skills. I won't even pretend to start instructing on how to ride in an e-mail post. Best bet is to take a course like the state-endorsed Motorcycle Safety Foundation's (MSF's) Rider Training Course. If you don't already have a motorcycle endorsement on your license, many states will waive the road test portion of the motorcycle exam upon proof of successful competion of the MSF course. It also entitles you to a break on your insurance. Then again, since you used to ride, you probably already retain many of the skills. In that case, taking an MSF course would be a great way to refresh those rusty skills.
Second, given the practical nature of the use for your motorcycle or scooter, think carefully about what you want - although you probably know this, you likely aren't in the market for a cruiser (i.e., harley) or race replica (i.e., ninja). A Silverwing probably would serve you well. Another option is standard motorcycle like a Suzuki Bandit 600 or Yamaha FZ6. Just keep in mind, unless you invest in saddle bags, a top case or other luggage for the bike, that carrying space is limited.
But the cost is not just in the bike. As a former rider, your probably realize you'll need a good helmet, gloves, boots and other protective gear. When all is said and done, although your gas milage will improve significantly, just don't get a bike to save on gas money. The cost of the motorcycle/scooter, protective gear, training and additional insurance will probably eclipse any gas cost savings - at least for a few years! Then again, I have also found that commuting by motorcycle to be one of the few joys in an otherwise mundage daily task. Only you can weigh the pros and cons and decide.
Good luck - JC
