I've been riding motorcycles since 1964 and I am still learning. Just a few years ago I was on a busy two lane road. I was driving on the inside part of my lane, close to the center line, or where the steering wheel would be in a car. Just cruising up the road when I hit a straight stretch of road. There was a string of cars coming the other way, but I didn't think a thing about it. WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN one of those cars pulled into my lane to pass the cars in front him. There I was going 60 MPH in one direction and he coming at me at who knows how fast. I learn that day when on a two lane road and you hit a straight stretch to ride the outer part of the lane so the oncoming drivers can see you much earlier and won't pull out and maybe hit you head on. When you are too close to the center line they can't see you until they pull out, and that can be too late. I hope all yhis makes sense. Ride safe and enjoy every journey. Any ride where you return safely is a GOOD ride. Thanks for sharing your videos.
For me, the rule of thumb when riding a motorcycle/scooter is either you go much faster than the car surrounding you or ride it slow so cars can overtake you easily. do keep in mind i live at a 3rd world country which most of the people use motorcycle/scooter to commute and on top of that western traffic customs doesnt really exist here. just wanted to share
Thanks for the link to my Vespa Experience video. I appreciate it. Like you, I can easily find myself drifting into routine and lose focus on the safety aspects of riding. Things like checking the tire pressure. Or making sure the brake light still works. I work hard to stay focused on what the right thing is while riding, and like you say, not surrendering myself to the pressures of other cars and vehicles. It sure seems like a puzzle sometimes. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the subject. It's always good to be reminded. I just need to remain open and teachable!
I bought my Vespa S150 last May and have ben learning to ride. In fact, I just passed my motorcycle skills test at the DMV this morning. After watching this video, I realize that when I'm riding I do have periods where I just kind of space-out. I've got to work on that. Thanks for your videos, I do enjoy them.
Was once riding down a very scenic road a bit too quickly, and suddenly found myself in a 15 mph 180 degree turn. I lucked out and didn't dump the bike, but it was certainly a wake up call! Great video, as always.
TH-cam algorithm brought me to your channel! I've been riding on a scooter for uhm.. 24 years, and yea your pitfalls can be of anyone. Personally I do have a sporty ridingstyle, it's in my nature and I enjoy it much more this way, I find that I lose focus when I HAVE to drive in a more relaxed fashion. Maintaining your gear is important, but also the oily bits have to be maintained also, so it's important that -if you cant do it yourself- you get it done by someone who does know. I personally almost everything myself except my cilinder and its way easier to get a shop replace my tires when they have become slicks. And that t-shirt... I need this in my life.. " I has to find it "
TH-cam and its infinite wisdom... 🤣 Thanks for stopping in for a video. So far I've done everything except the initial servicing, but we'll see how far this newbie goes with that! 24 years in, and you still don't like to replace tires. Good to know! What are you riding these days?
@@ScooterNewbie replacing tires is a pain in the ass while I can bring my wheel to the shop and they charge 7.50 for it + the price of tire. I totalled my 1st scooter after 11 months in a traffic accident where I was the victim, it was a Malaguti Firefox F15, with insurance money went for a cheaper one, Puch NRG extreme which got stolen after several years, after that a 2nd hand Peugeot Speedfight 2 which was replaced 4 years ago with a 2nd hand Kymco Agility 50.. but saving now for a other scooter because its a piece of crap which needs parts replaced often, spending more money on servicing this one then all my previous scooters combined.
I recently joined the world of scooter riding and have much to learn! I appreciate all of your videos, so many great tips. And please have Marty post a link to that amazing t-shirt. This is the way!
If you unscrew the front shield off that Buddy KICK, you can plug in those front blinkers. But if you remove the pod blinkers up high, youll need new screws because the screws double purpose for the switch assys. Gives it a more flush look.
Glad to see you’re back. I make mistake #2 more often than I’m comfortable with. It’s not so much that I’m looking at things around me, but just more preoccupied with a train of thought. Breaking routines leads to big mistakes on my part too. Forgetting things are often the result, like putting my gloves on as I start up my bike. Running through A mental check list helps a lot, and keeps me on track when commuting, or traveling.
Hi! I actually was just thinking about you today and wondering why I hadn't seen a new video in months. So I looked for you on YT and here you are! I've done all those bad things you talked about, many times. I've been lulled into neglecting to check the oil in my Kymco because after 3200 miles it's never used or leaked a drop between changes. And I neglect to check the tire pressures sometimes because the rear tire valve is just so annoyingly hard to get to. 35 years as an auto mechanic and I've gotten so lazy since retirement that I rarely open the hood on my own car anymore. I also find myself wearing my 3/4 helmet instead of the full face helmet most of the time because it's so much cooler in the summer. The other day I was riding on a new road that twisted and turned through a cornfield and I saw a very sharp turn coming up and made a mental note of it and then apparently went back to looking at the scenery and suddenly found myself into the turn and had apparently zoned out and forgot to slow down. I made it but not by much. I do find that riding a scooter sometimes is so scenic and pleasant that my mind isn't fully on the road (not a good thing when riding around cars and on 12" wheels). We are both still in one piece though so we must be doing something right.
You've got that right - we must be doing something right! It's so funny how in 1 breath I'm like - pay attention. In the next, chill & enjoy the ride. That balance is somewhere in there. I'm so glad to hear you're at 3,200 miles on the Kymco already! I swear if I didn't have a channel with folks telling me the GTS burns oil, I'd be even worse about checking! So there ya go. Start a channel in your retirement, and you'll get better at checking. 🤣
Good to see a video. I hope you’re enjoying your scooters. I actually traded my Kymco in for a Royal Enfield motorcycle. The Classic 350 signals. I also own the Meteor 350. Both are a blast. Ride safe and watch those tailgaters. ✌️
@@ScooterNewbie it was a little of both and that gear oil leak was never resolved. My kid was calling it a clown car and that might have had something to do with it. 🤡 🚙 Honestly though I would consider a Vespa or Honda scooter in the future.
Aw thanks for the kind words! The moving plus the day we had an offer letter signed, Rich broke his ankle. It's been an ordeal, but we're almost back to normal around here.
Hi Renee. I saw the video this morning as I ate breakfast at Waffle House but just rewatched the video again. Great video and I’m so Proud of you for noticing the Newbie Mistakes that you’re doing. By recognizing that, makes for a Good Rider. Just keep those skills at Tip Top Shape. Also, you’re Very Welcome for the shirt. It looks great on you. I bet it’s a conversation starting since no one has seen a shirt like that before. Finally, Thank you for Welcoming to the Scooter Community Officially and Hello Fellow Scooter Riders. I’ve been enjoying my scooter and I’m getting used to riding in heavier faster traffic, since I need to. My co-workers that have seen my scooter at the office have liked it as well. Can’t wait for the next video.
Ah, the difference between a scooter and a motorcycle. When I'm on the scooter I'm in a two wheeled car. The Helix has a bubble of air from the windshield and fairings in front of me. Twist and go so you never hear the engine since the revs are progressive as speed increases. On my motorcycle I have to be aware of engine revs and when to up or downshift. It requires attention just to operate so the "Lost in a Fog" moments rarely occur. Except on highway runs when you're stuck in steady throttle mode. Then you're watching for distracted drivers, big trucks and generally nutty behavior from people who believe they can get anywhere in five minutes if they drive fast enough.
Hey 👋 I love your videos, I’ve just passed my CBT (I’m 50), picked up my scooter and fell off it on my first ride only at low speed going around a roundabout. Am shaken, how do I get confidence back, any tips welcome 😊
I am very sorry to hear that you're dealing with this mental battle! My husband broke his ankle on his scooter, and the first week of back to riding, I can tell he was a little apprehensive. I think it boils down to just pushing passed it only in ways that you're comfortable. That said, you mentioned that you were going a slow speed - I feel like that's when it is most common. I literally can't keep my balance even with experience if I go under 4 miles per hour, but that speed takes some effort! Go to a school parking lot every Sunday morning & just practice those low speed turns. Take them wide until they are comfortable & then give yourself a narrower turn goal. Figure 8 til you're feeling more solid in the slower speeds. I still practice, so it's a continuing process for sure!
@@ScooterNewbie thank you so much for your reply. I’ve actually got myself a lighter first scooter and sold the heavy one I fell off. That has helped plus going to a nearby carpark where I can practice. It’s weird isn’t it how wobbly it is at low speeds! It’s reassuring for me that you still feel that. Love your videos and it’s what inspired me to go ahead and buy a scooter. Hope you’re enjoying your Vespa 300cc!! 😍
Ha! Yes! She's just really dirty. I've been leaving her outside in the elements more than normal for the last few months to see if I have any rust issues for a 1 year in video.
@@ScooterNewbie Oh there's the answer! If that's the "2022 Racing 60's exactly like mine then you didn't send her to the salt mines after all. Or maybe that's like sending the canary into the old mine shaft to test for lethal gases?! Here in Chicago where we salt everything twice including our entrees. It would be the UL's lab test site for rust and corrosion! Mine's in the heated garage with carpets and bluetooth music piped in keeping the other 3 bikes and scooters company covered in an official "Vespa" cover! Please dear, show some compassion!!😯
I've been riding motorcycles since 1964 and I am still learning. Just a few years ago I was on a busy two lane road. I was driving on the inside part of my lane, close to the center line, or where the steering wheel would be in a car. Just cruising up the road when I hit a straight stretch of road. There was a string of cars coming the other way, but I didn't think a thing about it. WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN one of those cars pulled into my lane to pass the cars in front him. There I was going 60 MPH in one direction and he coming at me at who knows how fast.
I learn that day when on a two lane road and you hit a straight stretch to ride the outer part of the lane so the oncoming drivers can see you much earlier and won't pull out and maybe hit you head on. When you are too close to the center line they can't see you until they pull out, and that can be too late.
I hope all yhis makes sense. Ride safe and enjoy every journey. Any ride where you return safely is a GOOD ride. Thanks for sharing your videos.
It does make sense, and I can only imagine the pure terror! Thank you for sharing the experience & tip!
For me, the rule of thumb when riding a motorcycle/scooter is either you go much faster than the car surrounding you or ride it slow so cars can overtake you easily. do keep in mind i live at a 3rd world country which most of the people use motorcycle/scooter to commute and on top of that western traffic customs doesnt really exist here. just wanted to share
Thanks for the link to my Vespa Experience video. I appreciate it.
Like you, I can easily find myself drifting into routine and lose focus on the safety aspects of riding. Things like checking the tire pressure. Or making sure the brake light still works. I work hard to stay focused on what the right thing is while riding, and like you say, not surrendering myself to the pressures of other cars and vehicles. It sure seems like a puzzle sometimes.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the subject. It's always good to be reminded. I just need to remain open and teachable!
gettin’ some love! awesome
I bought my Vespa S150 last May and have ben learning to ride. In fact, I just passed my motorcycle skills test at the DMV this morning. After watching this video, I realize that when I'm riding I do have periods where I just kind of space-out. I've got to work on that. Thanks for your videos, I do enjoy them.
Thanks Richards, and a big CONGRATULATIONS on getting through your skills test!! I'm truly excited (even if a bit delayed)!
Great tips! And where can I get that shirt?! 😂
Good suggestion, I just started riding again after a 15-year break. I have a ton of skills to remember and practice.😁
I'm rooting for you! Happy scooting! 🛵💨
Nice tips !!
Nice shirt !!
This is the way !!
😁😁
Don't let anyone dictate your speed!
Was once riding down a very scenic road a bit too quickly, and suddenly found myself in a 15 mph 180 degree turn. I lucked out and didn't dump the bike, but it was certainly a wake up call! Great video, as always.
Whoa! I feel like I'd have to pull over after that to catch my breath at the very least! And thank you. 🙂
Glad to see a new video. Good stuff, too. It's easy to tune out when riding the same, comfortable roads.
It sure is easy to tune out, and thank you! 😍
TH-cam algorithm brought me to your channel!
I've been riding on a scooter for uhm.. 24 years, and yea your pitfalls can be of anyone. Personally I do have a sporty ridingstyle, it's in my nature and I enjoy it much more this way, I find that I lose focus when I HAVE to drive in a more relaxed fashion.
Maintaining your gear is important, but also the oily bits have to be maintained also, so it's important that -if you cant do it yourself- you get it done by someone who does know. I personally almost everything myself except my cilinder and its way easier to get a shop replace my tires when they have become slicks.
And that t-shirt... I need this in my life.. " I has to find it "
TH-cam and its infinite wisdom... 🤣 Thanks for stopping in for a video.
So far I've done everything except the initial servicing, but we'll see how far this newbie goes with that! 24 years in, and you still don't like to replace tires. Good to know!
What are you riding these days?
@@ScooterNewbie replacing tires is a pain in the ass while I can bring my wheel to the shop and they charge 7.50 for it + the price of tire.
I totalled my 1st scooter after 11 months in a traffic accident where I was the victim, it was a Malaguti Firefox F15, with insurance money went for a cheaper one, Puch NRG extreme which got stolen after several years, after that a 2nd hand Peugeot Speedfight 2 which was replaced 4 years ago with a 2nd hand Kymco Agility 50.. but saving now for a other scooter because its a piece of crap which needs parts replaced often, spending more money on servicing this one then all my previous scooters combined.
Some good tips, very nice T shirt. Ride safe!
I recently joined the world of scooter riding and have much to learn! I appreciate all of your videos, so many great tips.
And please have Marty post a link to that amazing t-shirt. This is the way!
If you unscrew the front shield off that Buddy KICK, you can plug in those front blinkers. But if you remove the pod blinkers up high, youll need new screws because the screws double purpose for the switch assys. Gives it a more flush look.
Glad to see you’re back. I make mistake #2 more often than I’m comfortable with. It’s not so much that I’m looking at things around me, but just more preoccupied with a train of thought. Breaking routines leads to big mistakes on my part too. Forgetting things are often the result, like putting my gloves on as I start up my bike. Running through A mental check list helps a lot, and keeps me on track when commuting, or traveling.
I'm teaching my 15-year-old to drive. I completely agree it has been making me rethink the way I drive! Great video!!
Isn't that fun?! Thank you for the support, Jen!
Love love love Scooter in the Sticks videos!! And your are awesome too!
I recognize myself...
Thanks for reminding me!
Hi! I actually was just thinking about you today and wondering why I hadn't seen a new video in months. So I looked for you on YT and here you are! I've done all those bad things you talked about, many times. I've been lulled into neglecting to check the oil in my Kymco because after 3200 miles it's never used or leaked a drop between changes. And I neglect to check the tire pressures sometimes because the rear tire valve is just so annoyingly hard to get to. 35 years as an auto mechanic and I've gotten so lazy since retirement that I rarely open the hood on my own car anymore. I also find myself wearing my 3/4 helmet instead of the full face helmet most of the time because it's so much cooler in the summer. The other day I was riding on a new road that twisted and turned through a cornfield and I saw a very sharp turn coming up and made a mental note of it and then apparently went back to looking at the scenery and suddenly found myself into the turn and had apparently zoned out and forgot to slow down. I made it but not by much. I do find that riding a scooter sometimes is so scenic and pleasant that my mind isn't fully on the road (not a good thing when riding around cars and on 12" wheels). We are both still in one piece though so we must be doing something right.
You've got that right - we must be doing something right! It's so funny how in 1 breath I'm like - pay attention. In the next, chill & enjoy the ride. That balance is somewhere in there.
I'm so glad to hear you're at 3,200 miles on the Kymco already! I swear if I didn't have a channel with folks telling me the GTS burns oil, I'd be even worse about checking! So there ya go. Start a channel in your retirement, and you'll get better at checking. 🤣
@@ScooterNewbie I can't have a TH-cam channel. I'd spend all my time arguing with everybody about everything LOL!
Good to see a video. I hope you’re enjoying your scooters. I actually traded my Kymco in for a Royal Enfield motorcycle. The Classic 350 signals. I also own the Meteor 350. Both are a blast. Ride safe and watch those tailgaters. ✌️
I LOVE the Meteor, and I haven't seen the Classic. Is it because the Kymco gave you more grief or needed the oomph?
@@ScooterNewbie it was a little of both and that gear oil leak was never resolved. My kid was calling it a clown car and that might have had something to do with it. 🤡 🚙
Honestly though I would consider a Vespa or Honda scooter in the future.
Thank you for your video!! 😊 I just bought a vespa gtv 300 and that's great to know, novice scoot scoot 😮
Congrats!!!! It’s so fun to have a new ride as the weather warms up!
@@ScooterNewbie it has been a lot of fun! Its very fast 😁
That's good advice - always "ride your own ride"
Good video. I had checked in a couple times this week wondering if I just wasn't getting notified. Moving.......:(
Aw thanks for the kind words! The moving plus the day we had an offer letter signed, Rich broke his ankle. It's been an ordeal, but we're almost back to normal around here.
Hi Renee. I saw the video this morning as I ate breakfast at Waffle House but just rewatched the video again. Great video and I’m so Proud of you for noticing the Newbie Mistakes that you’re doing. By recognizing that, makes for a Good Rider. Just keep those skills at Tip Top Shape. Also, you’re Very Welcome for the shirt. It looks great on you. I bet it’s a conversation starting since no one has seen a shirt like that before. Finally, Thank you for Welcoming to the Scooter Community Officially and Hello Fellow Scooter Riders. I’ve been enjoying my scooter and I’m getting used to riding in heavier faster traffic, since I need to. My co-workers that have seen my scooter at the office have liked it as well. Can’t wait for the next video.
Yay! I can't believe you found time with your epic road trip! You've started a trend - others seem to want in on the shirt crew. 😁
Thank you for the video. I catch myself daydreaming too
You and me both! Clearly. :)
Give us a update on riding on the highway. Are you comfortable at 65-70 mph.
Oh yes! I wear my gear, but I definitely do 65-70 when the road warrants it.
You can drive a car at 16? In the UK it is 17. All a16 year-old can drive/ride is a moped. Maximum speed 30 mph.
Ah, the difference between a scooter and a motorcycle. When I'm on the scooter I'm in a two wheeled car. The Helix has a bubble of air from the windshield and fairings in front of me. Twist and go so you never hear the engine since the revs are progressive as speed increases. On my motorcycle I have to be aware of engine revs and when to up or downshift. It requires attention just to operate so the "Lost in a Fog" moments rarely occur. Except on highway runs when you're stuck in steady throttle mode. Then you're watching for distracted drivers, big trucks and generally nutty behavior from people who believe they can get anywhere in five minutes if they drive fast enough.
You captured the difference perfectly! And I laughed out loud for real with the highway 'nutty behavior'! 🤣
Great channel
Hey 👋 I love your videos, I’ve just passed my CBT (I’m 50), picked up my scooter and fell off it on my first ride only at low speed going around a roundabout. Am shaken, how do I get confidence back, any tips welcome 😊
I am very sorry to hear that you're dealing with this mental battle! My husband broke his ankle on his scooter, and the first week of back to riding, I can tell he was a little apprehensive. I think it boils down to just pushing passed it only in ways that you're comfortable.
That said, you mentioned that you were going a slow speed - I feel like that's when it is most common. I literally can't keep my balance even with experience if I go under 4 miles per hour, but that speed takes some effort! Go to a school parking lot every Sunday morning & just practice those low speed turns. Take them wide until they are comfortable & then give yourself a narrower turn goal. Figure 8 til you're feeling more solid in the slower speeds. I still practice, so it's a continuing process for sure!
@@ScooterNewbie thank you so much for your reply. I’ve actually got myself a lighter first scooter and sold the heavy one I fell off.
That has helped plus going to a nearby carpark where I can practice. It’s weird isn’t it how wobbly it is at low speeds!
It’s reassuring for me that you still feel that.
Love your videos and it’s what inspired me to go ahead and buy a scooter.
Hope you’re enjoying your Vespa 300cc!! 😍
you should do scooter reviews.
T-shirt duh! 🎉 Good points
Great video
Glad you enjoyed it
Glad you enjoyed it!
still driving the GTS?
That's what I was going to ask....
Ha! Yes! She's just really dirty. I've been leaving her outside in the elements more than normal for the last few months to see if I have any rust issues for a 1 year in video.
@@ScooterNewbie Oh there's the answer! If that's the "2022 Racing 60's exactly like mine then you didn't send her to the salt mines after all. Or maybe that's like sending the canary into the old mine shaft to test for lethal gases?! Here in Chicago where we salt everything twice including our entrees. It would be the UL's lab test site for rust and corrosion! Mine's in the heated garage with carpets and bluetooth music piped in keeping the other 3 bikes and scooters company covered in an official "Vespa" cover! Please dear, show some compassion!!😯
New content👍🏽👍🏽
Finally! Thanks for stopping by!
🐝
Is your child interested in driving a scooter ?
He has a passing interest ONLY for the money savings. Otherwise, mom does it, so it can't be cool. 🤣