I'm not building a gas-powered scooter, YET. However the Doodlebug thing I found looks badass for a cheap pocket dirtbike.
Instead I'm thinking my next project will be a DIY pressure washer (once I close on my house). The local rental place sold me a new 3500psi/4gpm replacement pump (Landa), along with an old gun & hose. I got it for near nothing since they only have small pressure washers now and don't give a shit. Basicly it just needs a motor, since it already has the unloader valve, inlet/outlet fittings, soap injector, and pulley.
The only problem is the pump normally used a GX270 (8.5hp) from what the guy said. I plan on using a HF 6.5hp clone. However...this is RHMT, I only expect to make 6.5hp at 66% throttle!
I'm thinking I'll mod it a bit:mod or remove the governor
add some 1.3:1 ratio rockers (stock is 1.1:1 iirc)
18lbs valve springs
lap the valves
file the timing key to increase timing
mill the head down to bump CR
mig up a better flowing header, but long enough for a wideband...
bigger air filter + diy billet adapter
mild head port
regapped rings (from oversized rings) + plateau hone
rejet the carb
It should have more HP than a GX270 and still be rather reliable. It would make a ton more if I wind it out, but that won't benefit the pump. All this shit (inc. motor) shouldn't cost over $125, given a decent HF discount + parts + tax. Plus I can order most Honda small-engine parts at work
for cost. That will make a crazy pressure washer for less overall than any POS vertical shaft units at homeboy depot.
My basis for modding the motor:
http://personalpages.tds.net/~nascarfans/TripleDouble.htm