What are good tips for driving motor scooters?

Question

What are good tips for driving motor scooters? (I am trying to get a 49cc scooter) and also what are some good books out there for learning how to take care of scooters for a beginner [I am a beginner to driving any sort of vehicle; this scooter will be my first vehicle]?

Thanks!

Answer 1

-As was stated, ride defensively.  This holds true on any vehicle, but even more so on the two-wheeled variety.

-Wear a helmet, motorcycle gloves and protective clothing.  A textile or leather moto jacket is highly recommended.  Bright colors preferably.

-Start riding as you would drive a car.  When you gain experience and confidence you may want to lane split and use the scooter's maneuverability in traffic.

-Always look where you want to go.  This rule will help prevent a crash.  Say you're going too fast and running out of road (about to run off the road).  Don't fixate on the rapidly approaching lamp post! Look to where you want to go and you will go there.

-Most importantly and related to #1, CONCENTRATE ON THE ROAD AND TRAFFIC AT ALL TIMES!  It's not a car with two tons of steel and airbags to save you, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.  If you don't, there's a good chance you'll die.

Happy scootering!

This link should have everything you need:  http://www.scooterworks.com/Book_Scooter...

Answer 2

I think it is important to get lessons from a qualified instructor. With bikes you don't get second chances and it is good to get feedback about areas where you need improvement.

Also, always wear the correct protective gear. A helmet is a must, but also wear motorcycle jackets and trousers and always wear gloves. The first thing you will do if you come off is pout your hand down to protect yourself.

As for books, I bought Haynes Motorcycle maintenance techbook and I think it is excellent. It deals primarily with motorbike bikes, but it covers the basics of all bikes. They do one called the scooter book which might be more relevant to you though. Also, see if you can find a handbook for your bike. For popular bikes there is sometimes a detailed handbook which goes into depth for that particular model.

Answer 3

They are pretty much worry free machine.  Just follow the engine oil schedule as that is VERY important.

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Also important - if you store it away for more than a month (winter storage, etc.) make sure you WINTERIZE them or else it will NEVER start later.

http://www.superbikeplanet.com/winterize...

http://www.wikihow.com/Winterize-Your-Mo...

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Remember that a scooter is VERY small and other cars will NOT SEE you and cut you off (a lot).  Ride very defensively.

Good Luck...

Answer 4

Scooters are very easy to operate so really, you dont even need any tips for how to operate one.  The only real tip you need is how to be safe on one and the best advise I can give is to ride as if none of the cars on the road can see you, because chances are none of them can.  If you ride like nobody can see you, then you will be more alert and aware of the other cars and you will be able to foresee any potential accidents and avoid them.