Does scooter experience help?

Does scooter experience help?

by Cindy
(Maine)

I've been riding mopeds and scooters to commute to work and for fun for many years. I'm thinking of getting a motorcycle. I intend to take the safety course this summer, but I've been wondering if my non-motorcycle experience will help or hinder me?

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Does scooter experience help?

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May 06, 2011

Scooters are two wheelers too!
by: Anonymous

Your experience is definitely a plus - you are used to the flow of traffic, used to scanning ahead, used to the issue of being seen (or often, not being seen!)

I actually ride a 600 cc scooter - legally a motorcycle, and like one, except for the transmission, and the step-through design. I have had motorcycles, too, and the only adjustment is that you have the clutch now with the left hand, and on most bikes, the rear brake control moves to a foot pedal on the right side.

You have more power, more acceleration, but most motorcycles are not as nimble as a scooter, so the steering takes some getting used to. You have a higher center of gravity, so braking feels a bit different, too.

Don't let anyone dis your scooter experience, it all counts toward you being a better rider!

Apr 22, 2011

Thanks!
by: Cindy

Thanks for your encouragement. I just bought a Yamaha V Star Classic 650, and I'm loving riding! My biggest issue is pulling out of a complete stop and easing into first gear. I guess I'll just have to ride a lot more to get used to the clutch! I think the 2-wheel experience really has helped.

Apr 15, 2011

Scooter to Motorcycle
by: Ms. B

I think it will help because if you've been out in traffic on your scooter, it may lessen the jitters you may feel once out on a motorcycle. You also have the feeling of balance and steering on two wheels. Good luck!

Apr 10, 2011

I think it should help.
by: sassy2731

I think it will be helpful to you since you have already been on the road getting some experience on two wheels. You will just be upgrading to something with a clutch is all. Go for it. And the safety course is required here in Texas, even for scooters.

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