Motor Scooters: An Adolescent's Rite of Passage

Motor Scooters: An Adolescent's Rite of Passage

For many years, getting a car was a big deal for the American teenager. With the economy in the tank, many parents are worried about buying basic necessities, and this important rite of passage is not always a necessity. One way that parents can give this important milestone to their adolescent is by choosing a motor scooter. Scooters give kids the freedom they want, and can also liberate the parents from the job of chauffeur.

Motor scooters are far more affordable than cars, and it is impossible for your teen to pile 10 of their friends on the bike. When parents take the necessary steps to teach their teen how to ride responsibly, it can be an important learning tool for driving skills, responsible ownership and learning how to get around on their own.

One of the most costly aspects of car ownership is the tax, title and insurance. These costs are far lower for a motor scooter owner than for a car owner. For parents of teenage boys, this savings is huge. Some kids are also interested in learning how to repair and maintain their own scooter, which is easier than working on a car, and teaches valuable skills that can lead to a job that helps pay for college.

Depending on where your child's school is located, one of the first things he or she will want to do is drive to school on their motor scooter. This is one way to motivate them to go to school every day, but make sure your teen is familiar with the scooter before sending them off to school on it. Drive the route with them in the family car and point out the issues of driving a scooter along the same roads. Make sure they are aware of potential hazards and what to do in case something unexpected happens.

Set rules and boundaries for riding the scooter before giving them the keys. Make sure they know which roads they are allowed to drive on and in which areas of town they are restricted from. It is a great idea to begin small, say only driving to and from school, and work up to greater responsibilities as the teen proves their ability to be responsible.

Share this experience with your teen. Don't just hand over the keys and let them loose – show them the gauges and instruments. Let them get a feel for the scooter in the yard or a nearby parking lot. Help them select a helmet and other appropriate riding gear. Above all, be a role model for skilled, safe driving. Sharing this experience with your teen is one of your own rites of passage.