John here,
Good questions.
The reasons why our regular scooters cost more than the dirt scoot are simple.
#1 CNC vs. Chromemoly fork.
CNC forks are expensive, and take alot of time to manufacture.
Chromemoly forks are easy to form and weld, cost relatively low, and are durable.
We chose chromemoly forks over CNC, not only to reduce the cost to you guys, but also because a heavier front fork gives a better balance to the scooter to help counteract the added weight of the massive tire in back.
#2 Metalcores vs Tires.
Metalcores need to be forged, extruded, or machined, but so do our split hubs for the Phase Two dirt scooter.. so the cores dont make much of a difference in price.
The PU or urethane does however, as we use a special mix for our best 110mm wheels and that raises prices.
Tires and tubes are relatively cheap to use.. A replacement shouldnt cost more than $10-$15
The Phase Two Dirt Scooter has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $249.99 US, and 249 pounds in UK.
Australia is in line to receive orders, and no we WILL NOT sell to any large companies.
(Toys R US, Wallmart, Target.. etc.)
Phase Two takes its "Riders First" ethic seriously, and we will only sell to authorized distributors and scooter shops. We want to benefit the community, not make loads of cash by stepping over local shops.
Hope that answers your questions.
I also urge you to support rider innovation and our future shops by supporting us too, not the knock off garbage. Together, I spent 3 years with my friends help to perfect this for you guys. I want you all to enjoy the feeling of riding trails on your own dialed dirt scooter, that was the whole reason we even started.. To make a super affordable and super dialed dirt scooter for everyone to shred.