Learn to Ride a Motor Scooter for Proper Safety and Optimal Performance

Learn to Ride a Motor Scooter for Proper Safety and Optimal Performance

Whether you are a new driver starting out or a long time car driver learning to ride to save money on gas, learning how to properly ride the scooter makes you safer, keeps your insurance premiums lower and protects your driver's license from points. There are fundamental differences in driving a car and riding a motor scooter.

The first thing you will discover on the road is that other drivers tend to have less respect for two-wheel vehicles than for other larger cars and trucks. Start by stocking up on the protective gear you need. Goggles and a helmet are necessary, and helmets are required by law in some places. Wear protective footwear like motorcycle boots, not just sandals or flip flops. Wear brightly colored clothing while riding, and invest in reflective apparel for night riding. A rain suit is also a good idea.

Check the laws in your state and city before hitting the streets. Most states post their riding laws on the internet. Print them out, read them thoroughly and keep them with you. Check the local laws, too. Many towns and cities have passed ordinances regarding motor scooters.

Familiarize yourself with the scooter before hitting the highway. Get accustomed to the brakes, gas pedal and all of your instruments and gauges in the yard or in an empty parking lot. Finding out how long it takes to accelerate or stop when you're on the freeway in traffic is dangerous. Gradually work your way into other traffic situations on slow streets, then in town. Be confident with your skills before riding to school or work.

Motor scooters are a great social opportunity. When you have your skills in check, find a local group to ride with. Some community schools and local riding groups offer training for new riders, and this is an excellent way to meet other riders and riders on your skill level. Meeting more advanced riders is a great way to improve your skills while building new friendships.

If no classes or groups in your area are motor scooter specific, most motorcycle courses and groups welcome scooter riders. The skills it takes to ride a motorcycle are very similar to riding a scooter. In smaller cities and towns, this is often the only option.

Learning to ride is not that difficult, but learning to ride correctly is important. Remember, ignorance is no excuse. Not knowing the laws, how to handle your vehicle and other critical information can lead to far worse than a traffic ticket. Take the steps to learn the proper way to ride and follow your laws and safety rules at all times. Then, enjoy the open road!