Scooter Safety
When you’re riding a scooter, pretty much anything can become a hazard. There’s often very little warning, so it’s up to you to keep a constant eye out for things that could suddenly bite you.
Road kill, stones, white lines and shiny bits
Even a sealed road can quickly lose its grip if some stones are in your way. And in the wet, road markings, smooth seal, oil patches and even manhole covers can feel more like olive oil on bathroom tiles. So no matter how often you ride along a particular stretch of road, keep scanning the surface ahead and give yourself time to react. If you spot something, either avoid it or ride slowly over it in an upright position.
Car doors
By riding in the right of centre in your lane, and only in single file when passing parked cars, you’ll avoid becoming part of the junk in a driver door glove compartment. And when you’re dodging car doors, remember not to swerve into on-coming traffic, or in front of over-taking traffic in the lane next to you.
Children and animals
A runaway ball, or just someone they know on the other side of the road, can be all it takes to send a small child or a dog directly into your path; and you straight onto the road. So remember to keep scanning well off to the sides of the road as well as straight ahead and slow down and be ready to stop or swerve in case they bolt.
Intersections and turning traffic
When you’re travelling straight towards someone your image is barely changing, so you can be mistaken for part of the background and it’s hard to tell how close you are. If you think someone ahead may have seen you but you’re not sure, try weaving a little within the centre of your lane. The sideways movement can help disconnect you from the scenery behind you.
Pillion passengers
It may seem like a great idea to give your mate a ride, but it does impact on the way your scooter handles – especially braking and cornering. Remember most 50cc scooters just aren’t designed to carry this sort of weight.
Maintenance
Just like keeping in shape, it’s all about a little but often. Regular maintenance can prevent bigger bills down the road, and it’ll help keep you safe. If the oil runs out, for example, a scooter engine can overheat and lock-up. This can cost more to fix than the value of your scooter. You should also regularly check that your rear indicator lights are still working and your tyre pressures are correct. If your brake lever pulls into the handle bar, or real close to it, you should get your brakes adjusted as soon as possible. Scooter maintenance is relatively cheap and keeping a copy of bills will help when it comes to selling your ride. Every time you fill up, make use of that time to check your brakes, tread, tyre pressure, oil, indicators and lights.
Some days aren't made for scooting
If it’s pouring with rain or blowing a gale, it’s OK to leave your scooter at home. Riding in heavy rain can be treacherous and a good blow can knock your scooter over when it’s parked - causing expensive damage. With the money you’ve saved by scooting most days, catching the bus or even a taxi occasionally is probably a realistic option. And it could end up a whole lot cheaper than wiping out your scooter.
