Generally speaking, operating ANY two-wheel vehicle like a scooter or a motorcycle makes you more vulnarable than
driving a car, truck, or SUV. The reasons for that hopefully do not need to be explained. Since you are not
protected by a vehicle body, consequences of virtually any accident are potentially tragic, and that's exactly
the reason why accidents while riding a two-wheel vehicle must be avoided rather than simply survived.
Below, is the list of possible reasons that might lead to an accident.
- Your error
- Someone else's error
- Random events outside of your control such as weather, road condition, etc.
- Mechanical malfunction
Your ability to deal with the first three items in the list above is pretty much a function of your
experience and qualification. The most effective way to improve your skills is to take a riding course.
If you are a new rider of an above 50cc scooter, you are legally required to obtain a motorcycle endorsement.
This will require both written and driving tests. In this respect, we have personal experience with a company
specializing in a variety of motorcycle/scooter training courses starting from a basic one all the way up
to the enhanced version aimed at more experienced individuals. The basic course takes one-and-a-half days of
extensive training. At the end of the class, you will take the test, and - upon passing it - will be issued a
voucher. Any driver's license facility will honor the voucher, and issue a driver's license with motorcycle
endorsement.
We would not normally endorse a business or service but in this case - based on personal experience - we decided to
make an exception. Service/benefits-to-cost ratio was exceptional, and this is not something we - or anybody else -
got used to. Visit T3RG Motorcycle Schools site, and - whether you are a
novice or have been riding for a while - consider taking an appropriate course consistent with your experience. You
can also call them @ 303 433-9424.
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We do not expect our customers to be professional mechanics or even mechanically inclined individuals so we have
compiled a very basic check list everyone can master. This may sound like a lot but after a few times will only
take a few minutes while may very well save your life. We recommend the following checks be performed on a daily basis.
- Tires and wheels
Check pressure - generally, scooter tires should have 40 PSI. You can get a basic tire pressure gauge for
literally two-three bucks at any parts store or Walmart
Check both - especially front - tires for signs of damage such as cracks, bulges, or cuts
Make sure thread depth is sufficient, and shows no bald spots
Check tire/rim merging line - make sure the rim is not dented or cracked
Check condition of both - especially front - wheel axles - verify that the wheels exhibit no play relative
to the frame/fork.
- Brakes
Disc brakes: check rotors for scouring, extensive wear/grooves, discoloration, or other damage
Drum brakes: since drum brake components are not visible without tear down, you can only check if wear
indicator (if present) does not show excessive wear.
Note: All scooters we sell have at least front disc brakes because front brakes are responsible for 70%
of braking power, and disc brakes are easy to inspect and service, and they are capable of dissipating more heat.
Check all accessible hoses and connectors for signs of leakage. Just slide you finger along the area such as
seam or connector, and make sure it remains dry. Pay special attention to hoses - they are the most likely
components to be damaged by debris, and fail/burst without warning. Any cuts, bulges, etc. is a sign of
an unsafe condition.
Verify proper operation of the entire system. Start with pushing brake levers - they should
not feel soft, spongy, or "catch" at the very end of the travel next to the handle bar.
Check brake fluid level - every hydraulic brake circuit has a separate reservoir located at the
handle bar next to the brake lever. The reservoir has a transparent window, and fluid level should
be at least the middle of that window.
And finally, perform a simulated emergency stop as required by the drive test.
- Steering
Needless to say, your ability to steer any vehicle is the key to your and others' safety.
Start with checking steering handle bar for looseness
Check front fork for signs of damage such as dents or impact marks
Check front shocks for signs of leakage, bounce the front of the scooter a few times, and make sure it does not bounce
more than twice after the pressure has been removed.
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Lights
When riding a smaller vehicle - a scooter or motorcycle - it's especially important to make sure others can see you.
Drivers of larger vehicles have a tendency to ignore those who are not a threat, and even though they unlikely
have an intention of causing physical damage, their general attitude makes it your responsibility to avoid a collision.
The least you can do is to make sure that even if they may not care much about you or your vehicle, they can see
you. In other words, make sure all lights (head lights, front and rear turn signals, stop light(s) are operational.
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Safety is the most important aspect of operating any motor vehicle. You are strongly encouraged to follow the tips outlined below and - most importantly - apply common sense to all your actions.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing. Wear a helmet, even if it's not required by law. Be sure the helmet is DOT approved. (Scooter Helmets)
- Don't ride in another motorist's "blind spot."
- Excessive speed is a factor in many accidents. Obey the speed limits and never travel faster than your skill level or conditions allow.
- Signal well before you make a turn or lane change. Your size and maneuverability can surprise other motorists. Consider using hand signals in addition to your electric turn signals.
- Don't let other motorists surprise you. Use extra caution at intersections, parking lot entrances and exits, and driveways.
- Keep both hands on the handle bars and both feet on the floor boards while riding.
- Never leave your moped unattended with the engine running.
- Reduce your speed when riding over bumpy roads. Avoid hitting road hazards, such as sharp bumps and holes in the road surface. These hazards can cause loss of control or damage to your moped.
- Be especially conscious of traffic from behind. Because of the likely speed difference between other traffic and your moped, use caution and check your mirrors frequently every 5-7 seconds.
- Remember, mirrors allow only a partial view the road behind you - there are blind spots so be aware of where they are, and check them frequently.
- Check to see if your local governing agency has additional tips or guidelines for you.
- Use these scooter riding safety tips every time you ride your moped, not just on occasion.
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Association, Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center.
In addition, make sure you follow all maintenance requirements outlined on our
Technical page.
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