Have you priced a Vespa lately I have the 150 and 300. The 150 is around 11.5hp. It does great in Ky traffic. I also have the Honda Grom which I like, but the Vespa 150 will take it. Some people like scoots and some don't. I was just glad to see an American company take up the Cushman line of scoots again.
I've had Cushmans 1972 & 84 ( 3 wheel dumpsters ) and they have not change the front wheel except there's a front brake on the scoot. Green is the color that brings back memories. I can remember always having to rotate the front wheel because they would wear on one side. Had to take the bolts out of the wheel and swap sides. There built strong and will run for years.