College Scooters

Written by Matthew Jones

The “Look Twice: Save a Life” campaign was started as a way of getting drivers to be more aware of their surroundings while driving. Due to the fact that motorcycles are smaller and take up less space on the road, drivers have to pay more attention to make sure they do not overlook them and run into them. Since scooters are even smaller than motorcycles it is even more important for drivers to watch for them while driving. One of the biggest reasons drivers need to watch out for motorcycles and scooters is they have a much shorter stopping distance than cars.  Another reason car drivers need to be more aware of scooters and motorcycles on the road is they are easily missed when you quickly look in your mirrors (hence the name “look twice”) to encourage drivers to double check that there is no one around the car on a scooter or motorcycle. While driving be sure to “Look Twice” help reduce motorcycle and scooter accidents.

One of the many questions we get has to do with scooter laws and what is required to ride one on the road.  Please note these are the Maryland laws for scooters under 50cc like the ones we sell.  Other states may be different so it is a good idea to check up your state's laws.

License:

Scooters only require a standard Class C drivers license like you would need to drive a car.

If you do not have a drivers license you can apply for a "moped permit" from the MVA, for more information click HERE.

Helmets:

By Maryland law you are not required to wear a helmet.  However we strongly suggest you wear a helmet.

Insurance:

You are not required to insure your scooter.

Registration:

Scooters do not have to be registered.

Please be aware though that laws may change and that these laws only apply to the state of Maryland, towships and other states may have different laws so it is best to check first.

To some riding a scooter for the first time might be a little intimidating but in reality riding a scooter is very simple and much like riding a bike except you don't have to pedal.  Just find yourself a nice open parking lot like one we have at our store.  Give your scooter a quick look over make sure the brakes work and there are no fluids leaking out.  Then strap on a helmet and follow the 5 simple steps below.  

1.  First step is to simply get on and with your left foot kick the kickstand up.  If your scooter is up on its center stand simply place one foot on the ground and rock yourself forward to free it from the center stand.  Keep your foot on the ground to balance yourself until you are ready to go.

2.  Second step, turn the scooter on by placing the key in the ignition, turn it to "on" and pressing the ignition button.  Be careful that your right hand is not cranked back on the throttle.

3.  Third step is to give it some gas by rotating the right grip back towards you,  as you gain a little speed you can pull your foot up and place it on the deck or if you feel more comfortable you can leave it off the side.

4.  Fourth step is stoping. To stop simply squeeze both brakes at the same time and place your foot off the side as to balance yourself once you reach a complete stop.

5.  Final step is once you are done riding turn the scooter off, hop off but hold the scooter to balance it as you kick the kickstand down.  If you wish to use the center stand press down on the stand and rock the scooter backwards.

There you have it, you have successfully rode your first scooter.  Stop by our shop today to try it out for yourself.