Today’s
carefree, fun-oriented times have made
owning a scooter a great way to enjoy life and all its freedoms. Easy and inexpensive to operate, these
versatile vehicles are more popular than ever.
However, as with any moving vehicle, it is essential that beginning
scooter riders learn and use the proper techniques and avoid unsafe
practices. Additionally, the increased
popularity of these vehicles has led questions about proper registration. The purpose of this article is to assist
scooter riders with the proper operation and registration of their
vehicles. Used with the owner’s manual
supplied with your scooter, this article will help provide safe and enjoyable
riding experiences.
In many
states, certain models may be classified for licensing and or registration
purposes as a moped and not a scooter.
Contact your Honda scooter dealer or your state motor vehicle licensing
agency for specific information. You
must compy with these local requirements for licensing and registration for
whatever model you choose. Scooters are
motor vehicles and must follow the traffic and parking laws of each state. For example, scooters are not permitted to
ride on sidewalks, in pedestrian malls, or to park in many places a bicycle can
part. Specific details can be obtained
from your local motor vehicle agency, police or campus security department.
There are
many good ideas to follow and by combining them with your own instincts and
know how, you can have a terrific time while playing it safe. This article outlines the basic tactics and
skills needed for safe operation of scooters.
By spending a little time with these now, you will be prepared to ride
safely and have unlimited fun wherever you go and ride. Handled properly, there’s a great variety of
things to do with a scooter, except go off-road. The first thing you should consider to take
a rider training course. You’ll learn
all the skills that will make you street-wise.
You can get more information on this by contacting the Motorcycle Safety
Foundation (MSF).
No one says
you have to trick yourself out like the Road Warrior, but a scooter offers you
less protection than riding in a car or Sherman Tank. The following protective clothing should be
worn when riding a scooter. These items
are also highstyle; you’ll look great and be protected too! Using a D.O.T. approved helmet is a
must. Face shield or goggles, long
sleeved shirt or jacket, boots that cover the ankles, and gloves. Make sure the clothing is brightly colored so
you can be easily seen by other drivers.
Now that we’re dressed for scooter success, let’s run through some
pre-ride inspections that will make your trip worry-free.
You don’t
have to be a great mechanical technician in order to get out on the road. Each time you ride, do the following. Check tires for cuts, nails, or low
pressure. Check brake levers or pedals
for smooth operation. Check oil and fuel
levels. Check lights and horn. Check throttle for smooth movement and self
return. Familiarize yourself with all
controls, not only how they feel to the touch, but where they are and how they
work. Even if you are an inexperienced
rider by are going to ride an unfamiliar machine, take the time to go over the
controls before riding.
Unless
you’ve decided to go straight across the countryside, you’re going to have to
turn corners, which can get a little tricky unless you: Lean to turn. Slow down before the turn and gradually
accelerate through and out of the turn.
Keep feet up and in position; foot dragging through turns is unnecessary
and can also ruin a good pair of boots.
Look in the direction you’r turning.
Watch for road hazards, loose gravel and dirt, rocks, water, leaves, oil,
wet painted lines, potholes or other objects.
