Scooter is one of the most popular vehicles that provide maximum maneuverability when riding along city streets. However, over the period of routine operation, it is important to control its technical side. After all, it is this particular set of qualities that determines the controllability and overall behavior of your scooter on the road. Adhering to the basic driving recommendations, you will be able to make the ride safer, and there will be no need to frequently change parts for the scooter.
How to drive a scooter correctly: learning how to brake
The braking process is not the most difficult task for beginners, but even the slightest mistake can lead to serious injuries, thus you should learn how to perform it perfectly. To avoid any problems, remember that braking has several important nuances to it:
- You need to start braking in advance – after a specific stopping point has been calculated.
- It is important to use two brakes – rear and front.
- Regularly check the condition of the braking system. After all, broken pads have a negative effect on the braking process.
- Do not forget about the weather, which directly affects the braking distance and the effectiveness of the entire braking system.
- When driving on a poor quality road, it is difficult to calculate the trajectory – add extra caution and be even more attentive when you have to ride in such circumstances.
And one more thing. Professionals do not recommend stopping the scooter on slopes or other irregularities in the roadway. It’s not as vital as the previously listed tips, but it has to be mentioned.
Learning how to turn correctly
The first thing you need to do is to correctly calculate the trajectory of entering the turn. To do this, it will be necessary to correct the already gained speed. At a high speed, the grip on the road surface drops noticeably. Here are two options you’ve got:
- Gradually reduce speed to the optimum values.
- Begin to smoothly perform the planned maneuvers.
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Enter a corner only after you have finished braking. The safest method for beginners is to turn into a corner while tilting the whole body together with the generated inclination of the scooter. It’s not incredibly necessary later, but this tip can surely help you when you only start learning how to ride a scooter.
Maintenance
Using a scooter implies regular replacement of various parts. To avoid constant repairs, it is important to keep an eye on the throttle handle. You shouldn’t squeeze the handle – at least not for really long periods of time. And when stopping, it is not recommended to immediately turn off the engine.
The online motorcycle parts stores will offer a wide range of quality scooter parts from trusted manufacturers. Regular maintenance can extend the life of any vehicle.
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Best tips for new scooter riders
Buy safety equipment and clothing and wear a helmet
Unlike cars, scooters don’t have a metal frame that can provide you with an extra layer of protection in case of an accident. Consider wearing protective clothing. The better people can see you, the less likely they are to bump into you. Of all things, wearing a helmet really helps the most.
Watch out for hazards on the road
Avoid hazards such as potholes, gravel, or oil slicks. You should also be cautious when approaching railroad tracks – cross them at the correct angle. The proper way to cross railroad tracks is at the 90° angle or as close to it as possible.
Consider the weather
Rain can impair visibility and reduce tire traction. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you set out on your scooter, and think twice if there is a chance of rain or thunderstorms. If you do have to ride in the rain, choose the right equipment, ride smoother and smarter, beware of intersections, watch out for slippery surfaces and look for dry roads.
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Lock up your scooter
Like a bicycle, your scooter can be stolen if it’s not properly locked. You may also want to invest in a lock that attaches the scooter to something solid, such as a U-lock or cable lock.
Parking properly
If you park in a paid or retail parking lot or garage, you’ll often find that there are special spaces designated for motorcycles or scooters. One common problem occurs when a scooter parks on top of a full-size space, making it appear empty to other drivers trying to park their cars. If you do end up in a full-size space, you may want to park on one side, leaving room for another motorcycle (unless, of course, parking multiple vehicles is prohibited there).
Be careful
No matter how you ride, it makes sense to be alert. Think about your potential impact on other drivers, and aim to ride safely.
Conclusion
There are many scooter options available nowadays in terms of size, speed, and style. These vehicles can be a great alternative to a car.
And if you are not into owning a scooter, but would rather want to rent it in case of need – there are options for that too. There’s a trusted Central Park scooter rental in NYC that provides such services to New Yorkers and visitors of the city. Try to find similar options in your locality for the moment when you need to rent a scooter!
But whether you commute to work on a scooter or just ride one, safety should come first. Follow the tips provided in this article to be sure that you’re protected enough.