Scooter for Commuting?

[OMNIO]

Hi,

I'm looking to get a scooter for commuting around 16 miles a day / 80 miles a week to and from work.

I have 0 experience of anything other than pedal bikes.

I am a little confused over what cc i can legally ride and how licences work. Obviously i'll need to do my CBT but i have had a full UK Car licence for 3 years. Am i limited to 50cc? or can i ride 125cc? Is a bike licence a seperate entity to a car licence - i.e. do i need to apply for a provisional bike licence even though i have a full car licence? I have read up breifly on direct.gov but im still unclear.

I'm also trying to figure out the costs. If its going to be £2k or more per year (after the 1st year) then its not really worth it.

So far i have the following costs;

£1000 for the bike
£300 ish for a decent helmet

£54 for MOT - purely based on what the car costs us
£400 a year insurance - They range between £300 and £800 dependant on security etc
£...... for petrol. No nothing about average fuel tank size or mpg but im guessing not too much
£110 a year max for road tax? or would a 50 - 125cc scooter be £0 rated?

Are they realistic or dreamland? Anything i've overlooked?

Im not looking for a racing scooter and would like to avoid a 'hairdryer' type one you see the 16 year olds razzing round on. Would like a 4 stroke so i dont need to mess about with oil and would want it auto. Nippy away from the lights is a plus.

Any help appreciated!!

[OMNIO]

Thanks for the help guys. Clearing up the licence / cc issue is much appreciated! I didn't even think about getting a full on motorbike licence but now you mention it it probably is worth doing it. I've always been slightly jelous of my neighbour when he powers off on his R1 I think it is. Would be great to have the option of a sport bike as a weekend toy later in life!

Appreciate the responses and that guide that was posted!