So I originally thought the cost of the A plates was 20,000 RMB; not the 40,000 I heard is the norm these days. I only got 2 years tops before I return to the States for more schooling so taking that big a chunk out of my savings for a proper bike, plates, etc doesn't make sense at this point.

So I ask my fellow Beijingers, what's the risk of riding a legal scooter with a motorcycle license that has 京B plates inside the 5th ring?

I'm thinking confiscation is an issue. Perhaps problems getting gas. And if in an accident???