essay on my first experience of riding a scooty

My First Experience in Riding a Bicycle

Being a child involves dealing with new issues almost every day and learning how to overcome your fears. My first experience of riding a bicycle at the age of five is among my most vivid memories when it comes to the joys of childhood and conquering fears. On that day in summer, I acquired new skills and became more confident in my physical abilities, and these memories still help me today.

As a five-year-old child, I regarded riding bikes as something exciting but scary. At that age, I was still riding my bike with one training wheel to develop a sense of balance and become confident enough. I still remember my bike with white, pink, and purple elements, a small bicycle bell, and two colorful handlebar pompoms. On one bright and sunny day during summer break, my uncle finally told me that training wheels were only for babies and that it was high time for me to start riding my bike without assistance.

My uncle’s determination to take the training wheel off deeply affected me and, to some degree, instilled mixed feelings in my heart. I actually wanted to prove that I was old enough to master the skill of riding a bike and said with confidence that I was not a baby. However, from the perspective of a young child, taking the training wheel off was similar to a drastic change in life.

To my surprise, my fear of falling gave way to excitement and enthusiasm a few minutes after we started practicing. My uncle devoted enough time to teach me how to turn, and we practiced near my grandfather’s house until I was able to ride to the corner without falling. Of course, that experience was not without unpleasant moments because I fell a few times and scraped my knee due to having no protective equipment.

In conclusion, I often remember that day with happiness and sweet sadness. Most importantly, the day when I learned to ride a bike bubbles to the surface of my memory when I hesitate to try something new. This experience has helped me to realize that what seems scary often turns out to be fascinating and refreshing.

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How to Ride a Scooter for the First Time: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Are you considering buying a scooter for the first time? Or have you just acquired one but don’t know where to start? Riding a scooter can be an exhilarating experience, but it can also be intimidating if you’re not familiar with the basics.

This comprehensive guide for beginners will ease you into the exciting world of scooter riding. From choosing the right gear to mastering the fundamentals, we’ve got you covered. By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence to hit the road and explore your surroundings on your new scooter. So, let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Preparing Yourself and Your Scooter Before the First Ride

If you’re new to the world of scootering, it’s important to prepare yourself and your scooter before hopping on for the first time. First, make sure you’re dressed appropriately. Wear a helmet to protect your head, gloves to ensure you have a firm grip on the handlebars, and sturdy shoes to support your feet. Double-check that your scooter is fully charged and in good condition. Inspect the brakes, tires, and lights to ensure they’re all working correctly.

Before you start riding, find an open and flat area where you can practice. Try moving the scooter back and forth to get accustomed to the weight and balance. Get a feel for the throttle and brakes and practice turning by leaning the handlebars slightly. Remember to always start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you feel more confident. Following these tips will help you get comfortable with your scooter before taking on bigger challenges.

Read Also: The 10 Best Electric Scooter Under $1000 in 2024 – Reviews and Comparison

Basic Riding Techniques to Master for Safety and Control

Mastering basic riding techniques is of utmost importance when it comes to riding a scooter for the first time. The primary objective is to maintain safety and control at all times during the ride. A few essential techniques to master include balancing, accelerating/decelerating, braking, and turning.

Balancing is the key to staying upright on any moving vehicle. It is vital to keep your body weight centered over the scooter and to adjust it accordingly when taking turns or stopping. Acceleration and deceleration should also be controlled smoothly to prevent sudden jerks and loss of balance. Braking is another crucial aspect to consider for safety. It is essential to know the correct use of brakes, whether they are disc or drum brakes, and practice proper braking techniques. Lastly, turning on a scooter requires the rider to shift their weight and lean into the turn, depending on the direction. These techniques may seem challenging at first, but with practice and patience, anyone can master them and be confident on a scooter.

Navigating Road Hazards and Obstacles

Navigating road hazards and obstacles can be intimidating for new scooter riders. However, it’s essential to learn how to avoid and handle them to ensure a safe ride. The first step is to keep your eyes on the road and be aware of your surroundings. Look out for potholes, bumps, cracks, and loose gravel.

If you encounter a pothole or bump, don’t panic or slam on the brakes. Instead, slow down and gently maneuver around it. When faced with loose gravel or wet leaves, slow down and maintain a straight line, keeping your steering steady. Other obstacles, such as speed bumps, can be navigated by slowing down and gently approaching them at an angle. With practice, you will learn how to navigate these hazards with ease and become a confident and safe scooter rider.

You may also like: Top 10 Best Scooters For Long Distance Travel to Buy In 2024

Essential Gear and Safety Precautions for First-Time Riders

Before hitting the road, it is important to ensure that you have the essential gear to ensure your safety. The most important gear for any scooter rider includes a good quality helmet, gloves, proper footwear, and protective clothing. A helmet should always be worn while riding a scooter, as head injuries are the most common in any type of accident. Gloves can help protect your hands from scratches and provide a better grip on the handles. Proper footwear, such as closed-toe shoes or boots, are necessary to protect your feet and provide better control of the scooter. Wearing appropriate protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, can help reduce the impact of an accident and protect your body from scratches and bruises.

Apart from essential gear, first-time riders should also take basic safety precautions before getting on a scooter. Always ensure that the scooter is in good working condition before riding it. Check the tires, brakes, lights, and any other important parts of the scooter before starting the engine. Always follow traffic rules and regulations, such as wearing a helmet and signalling before turning. Pay attention to the road and remain alert to your surroundings. Avoid distractions, such as using a phone or listening to music, as these can impair your ability to ride safely. Always ride defensively and anticipate other drivers’ actions to avoid accidents.

Scooter Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Ride Safe and Reliable

Scooter maintenance is crucial to keep your ride safe and reliable for a long time. Regular maintenance will not only prevent potential breakdowns but also prolong the lifespan of your scooter. The first thing you should do is to check the tire pressure and condition regularly. Proper tire care will improve your scooter’s handling and stability, providing maximum safety for the rider. Also, check the brakes, oil levels, and battery periodically to ensure proper functioning.

Cleaning your scooter regularly is another essential aspect of maintenance. The accumulated dirt and debris can not only make your scooter look shabby but also harm its performance. Avoid washing your scooter with high-pressure water and chemicals. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to wipe down the surface thoroughly. Finally, store your scooter in a dry and secure place, away from direct sunlight or dampness, when not in use. By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure a safe and smooth ride every time you hop on your scooter.

Becoming Comfortable and Confident on Your Scooter

Becoming comfortable and confident on your scooter is crucial to enjoying your riding experience. To do so, it is important to start with the basics and practice in a safe and controlled environment. Begin by mastering balance, starting and stopping your scooter, and making turns. Once you have these skills down pat, you can move on to more advanced techniques like weaving through traffic and cornering safely.

As you gain confidence, it is important to always remain aware of your surroundings and to be cautious at all times. This means wearing safety gear like a helmet, gloves, and possibly even knee pads. You should also be aware of the weather conditions and adjust your riding accordingly. With time and practice, you will become one with your scooter and will enjoy the freedom of the open road.

Related Post: The 12 Best Folding Mobility Scooters For Adults [Updated – 2024]

Advanced Riding Skills for More Experienced Scooter Riders

Advanced Riding Skills for More Experienced Scooter Riders:

As you gain more experience riding a scooter, you may want to challenge yourself and improve your skills. Start by mastering slow-speed maneuvers, such as tight turns and U-turns, in a safe and open space. This will improve your balance, control, and confidence on the scooter. Practice emergency braking by gradually increasing your speed and stopping as quickly as possible without losing control. This skill can be life-saving in unexpected situations.

In addition, you may want to practice riding in different weather and road conditions, such as rain, wind, and uneven surfaces. This will help you adapt to changing situations and become a safer and more skillful rider. And don’t forget to always wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet, gloves, and boots, to protect yourself in case of an accident. With practice and dedication, you can become an expert scooter rider and enjoy the freedom and fun of this efficient and eco-friendly mode of transportation.

Learning how to ride a scooter for the first time can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. But with the right guidance and preparation, it’s a skill that anyone can master. Start with slow and steady practice in a safe and open space, and gradually increase your speed and skills. Remember to wear protective gear and always follow traffic rules and regulations.

As you continue to practice and gain confidence, you’ll find that riding a scooter can be an excellent way to commute, run errands, or simply enjoy the open road. With its affordability, convenience, and eco-friendly nature, a scooter is a smart choice for anyone interested in sustainable transportation. So, dust off that scooter in your garage and start practicing! With a little effort and patience, you’ll soon be riding like a pro.

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Mastering the Art of Scooty Riding: A Comprehensive Guide

Learning to Ride A Scooty - The Essential Steps 

Points to remember when riding a scooty as a beginner, use a well-maintained vehicle, wear a helmet always , stay away from distractions , have the necessary documents with you, why scooter insurance is important, 1. third-party liabilities coverage *, 2. coverage for damages to the scooty due to various events *, 3. 24/7 roadside assistance*.

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• How To Ride Scooty for the First Time? Learn To Ride a Scooter in 5 Simple Steps

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Updated on April 15, 2021 - After reading this article, theoretically, you'll get to know how to ride scooty for the first time with the help of just five simple steps. And once you are done with that, you can click HERE to check out the top five best and lightweight scooters for girls, women and newbies.

Original Article - July 26, 2020; India is one of the largest two-wheeler markets in the world. Also, it is one of the fastest-growing economies globally and being a developing nation, the call for mobility solutions is very high in India. We Indians now generally prefer our own personal mobility solution as they save our time, are affordable and have a style statement too. Nowadays not only men but young female riders and women commuters also like the ease of zipping in and out of chaotic city traffic on their gearless scooters. A lot of newbies want to learn How To Ride Scooty, so today we have for you this guide through which you can learn to ride a scooty in just 5 simple steps.

How To Ride Scooty in 5 Simple Steps

Step 1: Know Your Scooter

Before we begin riding any new machine, the first thing we need to do is to know about that machine. So, before you start riding a scooter, you need to know basic things about the scooter. In a gearless scooter, you need to press the rear brake and start the scooter with the help of the electric start button. It is advisable that we should hold the rear brake while starting the scooter because otherwise, the vehicle will tend to move forward on its own. In a scooter, both the brakes are placed on the handlebar. The right side of the handlebar has the accelerator and the front brake lever while the left side of the handlebar has the rear brake lever.

Step 2: Sitting on the Saddle and Starting the Scooter

Now, as you know about the basic parts of the scooter, so now you need to sit on your scooter and start it. The gearless scooters have a very low saddle height (seat height) and comfortable sitting posture, so you can easily sit on it. But, make sure you sit upright and straight. Don't lean more towards the handlebar or your left or right as this might cause hindrance in driving. Also, it might disbalance the vehicle and you might fell down. Now, as you are comfortable, start the scooter with the electric start button and don't forget to press the brake lever. You can also start it with the help of the kick.

Also Read: 2020 TVS Scooty Zest 110 BS6 First Look Review - Practical And Affordable 110cc Scooter

Step 3: Start Riding and Balancing

Now, as you have started your scooter safely, let's now start to ride it. Please make sure you are on a good smooth surface as you are riding it for the first time. So after starting the scooter, start leaving the brake lever slowly and you will notice that the scooter has started moving forward. Gradually, leave the brake lever completely, place your legs up on the footboard and start giving it throttle with the help of the accelerator. Don't rev the nuts out of it. Just twist the throttle slightly and you will notice that in no time you have crossed 30-40 kmph. As you are a beginner, don't cross 40 kmph and keep riding at a constant speed on a straight road. Also, try to maintain the balance of the vehicle by sitting in a constant position and if you are afraid, you can keep your legs down.

Step 4: Know How to Brake and Turn the Scooter

Now, as you have started riding the scooter at good speeds and know how to balance it, so the next thing you need to know is how to apply the brakes. As mentioned earlier, the front brake is the right lever while the rear brake is handled by the left lever. Try to decrease the speed of the vehicle gradually by applying the rear brakes, i.e. by pressing the left lever. Don't press the brake lever all of a sudden as the tyres might skid. After reaching the final destination, apply the front brake to stop it completely. For turning the scooter, you need to place your one leg on the ground and show the handlebar its direction. Turn the vehicle at slow speeds and use the brakes accordingly.

Step 5: Ride in Traffic

Now that you know, all the basic things about to the scooter and know how to ride it properly, its time you take it on the roads. If you are riding on the main roads of the city for the first time, it is advisable that you take someone as the pillion who is having a driving license. Also, you need to have at least the learner license. Now, to become a good rider you need to drive on the main roads and know how to filter through the traffic. You have to constantly alter the speed, throttle response and apply brakes according to the traffic condition. Don't lose your confidence, ride very confidently but don't be overconfident. You may also need to encounter idiots on the roads, so take care of that and don't race on public roads.

Also Read: Kia Sonet Interior Spied Again; Reveals New Details - Global Unveil Soon!

Now, as you have learnt to ride in traffic situations too, you are all good and now you are a rider! This was a brief article in which with the help of 5 simple steps, we explained you how to ride scooty. How did you learn to ride a scooter or a motorcycle? Share your experiences with us in the comments below. You can also join our 91Wheels Two-wheelers group (click via mobile to join) curated exclusively for the fans, enthusiasts and the owners. Also, please follow the traffic rules and always wear a helmet while riding a two-wheeler.

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My first time riding a scooter

17 comments

Before I came to South East Asia I knew that at some point I would probably , weeeeeell, DEFINITELY need to ride a scooter. It’s the number one mode of transport in this part of the world and there are few local buses or trains on the islands. Hiring a car is almost unheard of and in any case most places of interest are down little dirt track “roads”. If I wanted to go out and explore on my own I HAD to get a scooter…. the problem is, I was shit scared of getting on one! It all harks back to an incident in Ibiza a few years ago where I pretty much had a nervous breakdown on the back of my boyfriends scooter, screamed to be let off, stomped back to the hire office and begged for a couple of bicycles instead. Much to the amusement and bewilderment to the girl in the office! There was NO WAY I was riding on the back of a scooter ever again, the only way round it was to drive myself, but I’d never driven one either!

look at my stylish pink helmet!

A week into my SE Asia adventure I arrived on Koh Lanta, a gorgeous tropical island in the south west of Thailand. It’s a very traditional Thai place with not a lot of infrastructure. A little motorbike and sidecar took us from the ferry port to our beach bungalow when we arrived. There were no tourist buses or taxis here. I knew if I didn’t want to spend my entire time on this island in the same spot I’d need to get a scooter. Eeeeeeek!

After I realised that most of the hire scooters in Thailand are so simple a child could do it (and they do, I saw tiny kids driving scooters!) I was slightly more at ease. I’d convinced myself there would be pedals and gears and all sorts of complicated things to remember all while trying not to get knocked off my ride. But a single twist action and two brakes (front and back) was all I need to remember, phew!

Armed with a tiny bit more confidence off I went to the nearest hire shop on Koh Lanta. Pretty much everywhere has bikes/scooters to hire, but Mr Coconut seemed as a good a place as any. I went to speak to the owner who was lying in a hammock smoking a cigarette.

Me: Errrrr hi. I’d like a scooter for the day

Mr Coconut: which bike you want? Big one?

Me: well, errrrr, emmmm. I don’t, we’ll I’ve never ummmm

Mr Coconut: yeah, big bike. I have good one for you

Me: ummm ok….

Mr Coconut selects a pretty fancy looking scooter and wheels it out onto the dirt track.

Mr Coconut: Here. Try!

I tentatively get on the scooter. Mr Coconut tells me to apply the left brake and turn on the ignition. I do that and the engine fires up – good start! I then started to twist the accelerator with my right hand….slowly….nothing….bit more…nothing. Ahhh the brake! I’ve still got the brake on! I let go of the left brake and instantly go hurtling towards a fence with my legs in the air. Aaaaaaaaargh! I narrowly avoid the fence and carry on down the track screaming. Someone yells, “let go of the accelerator”. Oh yeaaaaa, I let go of the accelerator and come to a bumpy stop. Heart racing and feeling like a prize plum in front of Mr Coconut and all the people on the street, I then attempt to turn the bloody thing around to head back to the shop, but it’s so heavy that I make a right arse of that too. With some amount of control I managed to drive the thing back to Mr Coconut who looks horrified.

Mr Coconut: Ok. Smaller one for you

Me: ummmm yes please

Mr Coconut wheels out a much smaller, older looking scooter, which I manage to ride up and down the track with far better control than my first attempt. Phew!

And to be honest after that first major stuff up I was OK. I took it pretty slow at first, like 20k/p/h just getting used to the scooter. And even though the road was kind of busy I just kept my line, getting more and more confident with every few kilometres. Oh, other than stopping to look at the map and not being able to figure out why the engine wouldn’t start again. I was at least 10kms away at that point and about to cry when some German guy ran across the road to say I had to put up the kickstand to turn the engine over, doh!!

I’m so glad I stuck with it though because I managed to visit some beautiful beaches with no one else around and go jungle trekking to a beautiful waterfall. I even managed to ride some pretty gnarly off road tracks without coming flying off. By the end of the day I was up to a staggering 50kph! Haha. And over taking other bikes with a little “peep” like the locals do, to say, “I’m coming through”. By the end of the day I was grinning ear to ear and I’m actually really looking forward to riding a scooter again, hopefully next time with a little more style and grace than my first attempt.

Have you ridden a scooter abroad for the first time? Did you have a similar experience? I’d love to hear your stories.

17 Comments

Great post! Made me laugh, and you’re so much braver than me. I’ve been to loads of places where I know a scooter would be useful to get around (including Koh Lanta), but was always too scared to do it!

I really had to MAKE myself do it Beth, but I’m soooo glad I did. Happy to be the butt of the joke if it encourages other people to give it a go though, because you really do get to experience way more with your own set of wheels

Haha, I first rode a scooter in the Bahamas when I was about 19 – thats 42 years ago now! It was great fun till I came off but fortunately it was on the edge of a beach, so only a bruised ego I’m loving your adventures, take care.

ouch! Even on a sand I bet it stung a bit though

Awesome! Well done on conquering your fear. Transportation is essential to access lifes little gems. Loving your blog very much

indeed it is Lana, gives you a little bit more independence for sure. Glad you’re enjoying the blog 🙂

Well done! I ride pillion (2 up) on the back of my dad’s Lambretta over here in the UK, but have never actually driven one myself, but riding to a beautiful beach sounds like perfect way to try it out!

cool! The thing is, my dad had motorbikes too and I was allowed to go short distances on the back as a kid and had no fear then. But somehow pillion on a scooter seems a bit more precarious…or maybe it’s just that you’re not afraid of anything when you’re young then doubt starts creeping in as you get older, who knows. Anyway, with my new found scooter (ahem) skills, I’m flying now 🙂

Oh well, you’re better than me! I rode a scooter for the first time in Hawaii like three years ago. When I arrive to Asia, I was way too scared to drive with the crazy traffic. Instead, I found friends with motorbikes. 😛

I’m still not sure I could do it in a very busy place like Bangkok or Phnom Penh or something, but little beach towns and islands is a start

Ah I’m going to be in SE Asia in June and July and your post gives me confidence that I’ll be able to ride a scooter, I’m very nervous about it but it’s the perfect way to get around!

Really glad to hear it Chelsea! I’ve just had another day out on a scooter, and although I was nervous because it was much busier and faster moving roads I was totally fine. Actually I really enjoyed it! I’m sure you’ll get the hang of it too 🙂

I’m going to Koh Lanta as well next month! I know I should rent a scooter but I’ve never been on one and I’m just as nervous as you were. Were these places ok with people who don’t have a motorcycle license and never been on a scooter before??

In the Philippines, even office employees ride them. From what I’ve been told, an Uber style ridesharing system for motorbikes even exists. Think about men in ties in motorcycles. Or women in skits. Haha.

I’ve not been to the Philippines, but I have been on a motorbike taxi in Asia. It’s kinda terrifying, haha! The sight of local girls riding nonchalantly in their pencil skirts and kitten heals I always find incredible.

Oh jeez reading this gave me a little bit of anxiety attack. I’ve ridden motorcycles and habal-habals in the PH (basically motorcycles but bigger and usually used in mountain trails), but I was always a passenger, not the driver. I would love to be able to ride a scooter on my own. I tried once and it was dreadful haha. My problem is that I’m small and my feet don’t touch the ground, and this makes me more nervous. Anyway, good for you. I hope in the future when I’m faced with the chance of riding a scooter again I’ll remember your story and be able to write a successful one of my own.

I think I’d be scared if my feet didn’t touch the ground too, those things are heavy! Practice does make perfect though, by the end of my 6 months in Asia I was wizzing round some pretty busy, fast roads and absolutely loving it. I would definitely give it a go if you’re feeling brave, it gives you so much more freedom to explore.

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Learning to Ride. Personal Experiences Essay

Introduction, the lessons.

I’m a speed freak. Not surprising, considering my background. I come from a long family history of bikers. My elder brother, my dad, even my mom, they all have motorbikes. Right from when I was but a kid, we’d all getaway during the weekends, with me usually riding on either my mom’s or my brother’s bike. Soon enough though, I blew 12 candles during my birthday, and was presented with a small Benelli dirt bike. My elder brother offered to teach me how to ride it.

I already had the elemental skill needed to ride a motorbike: the sense of balance. Since I was eight, I had ridden mountain bikes as a form of exercise. So basically, all I needed was to know how to work the gears and clutches of the motorbike. Or so I thought. My elder brother, Cliff, quickly convinced me that there was so much more to riding a motorbike. He told me that it’d take me at least two months to finally be considered a competent biker.

We started the lessons one early morning in a certain open field near our home. Cliff started by showing me the important parts of the bike. I was soon conversant with the pillion, the hand accelerator, the signal lights, the hand and the foot brakes, the fuel reservoir, the clutch and the gears. He also described for me a major difference between Benelli motorbikes and most other bikes. While most bikes use a chain to connect the hind wheel to the engine, Benellis were known for their spinning metal rods, similar to the final drives of vehicles.

Cliff then gave me a lecture on safety when riding bikes. I quickly came to learn that motorbikes required a much higher sense of responsibility than even cars. With the rider essentially being part of a bike’s outfit, a bike is basically a human being travelling at vehicle speeds, but with nothing but a visor and knee pads as protection. Any accident when on a bike hence can be fatal- and most are. A sense of maturity was hence essential. This was part the reason why my parents had waited until I was 12 before allowing me to ride.

Cliff then instructed me to wear a leather jacket, knee pads, gloves and a visor. Dutifully, I put them on. Cliff could see the impatience in expression, for he soon launched into another tirade about the importance of each of those. Afterwards, he told me to sit on the pillion and hold the handlebars. At last, I thought, as I gleefully took the seat. Cliff then sat behind me on the pillion.

The dirt bike didn’t need kicking to start it. A handy ignition switch was in place. Cliff told me how to kick the gear system into neutral before turning the ignition key. Then, as per his instructions, I crunched the crutch while turning the ignition. The engine roared to life. The vibrations beneath me were simply exhilarating. Cliff however reminded me that the power beneath us could either be our transport to an earthy destination or to a heavenly one. His veiled threat became a fact in the next few seconds.

In my excitement, I kicked the motorbike into first gear. Then, turning the hand accelerator, I released the crunch. Cliff’s quick reaction saved our hide that day. He quickly grabbed the crutch just as I was releasing it. For several seconds afterwards, he was silent. Then, in a quiet voice, he described just what I had almost done. Apparently, if the crutch had become fully released, the bike would have shot forwards, and probably buckled us into our deaths. It was a close call. In Cliff’s dramatic expression, we had literally been knocking on heaven’s doors.

The storm passed, and we once again concentrated on getting on the move. This time, Cliff held the clutch besides me, and controlled how fast I released it. We were soon off on a smooth start. Soon, Cliff left the handlebars to me, confident in my sense of balance. I didn’t disappoint him. But after a short while, it was time to change to a higher gear. Once again, Cliff held down the clutch down for me, while instructing me how to kick the next gear into place. The bike surged forwards, and we were soon racing along at a considerable speed. After riding for another two kilometers, we turned around and headed back to the open field.

That first lesson took about an hour. When cliff saw that I was relatively conversant with the bike’s basic operations, he let me ride around the field on my own. He followed me with his own motorbike. When I tried to accelerate, he quickly told me to maintain a slow speed. I wasn’t as yet ready for anything above fifty. He was right, of course. The coordination during gear shifts was still proving tricky, but I was determined to have it down as soon as possible. Thereafter, I still had to understand how to use the signal lights, and the hand signals. With Cliff’s encouragement, I soon had most of the concepts off-head. Slowly, I was allowed to ride at higher speeds. By the end of the day, I had hit 100 kilometers per hour on a deserted road.

Cliff then told me that a lot more lessons awaited me on the highways. He allowed me to venture out on the highway on the following day. He tailed me though, ostensibly to see how I maneuvered myself around other motor vehicles and the pedestrians. It was then that I realized just what a great responsibility riding a motorbike is. Not only do you have to take care of yourself, but you also have to take care of all other road users in front of you. This particular fact was made clear to me more than once.

While passing a pedestrian crossing once, I came face to face with human unpredictability. A lady was crossing the road, but upon seeing us approaching, she became confused, and just stood there, right at the middle of the road. I had to break hard. Cliff also screeched to a stop beside me. We exchanged glances. No words were necessary. After the lady had finally got her wits together and crossed the path, we gunned the engines again and moved on. Soon enough, however, we had to break hard again. A child, running after a small tennis ball, had just appeared in front of us. The innocent look on the child’s face made me realize that the child had no idea just how close death was then. By the end of the day, I had a whole new perception on my responsibility as a new biker.

Over time, riding motorbikes has become second nature. I’ve since ridden a Kawasaki, a Yamaha, the intriguing American Iron-horse, and even the feminine Star White. Of course, with the more elegant designs, I would get a lease from a lending company. Through all this, however, I’ve realized one thing: the lessons never cease. I had my first accident several months after calling myself a biker. There were no serious casualties. It was embarrassing, but it was also very illuminating. There are no motorbikes experts- there are only cautious riders. And since then, I’ve always fought the urge to speed up unnecessarily on the highways. Of course, we do sometimes go for speed thrills as a family, but we always choose less busy highways, and everybody keeps within his or her capabilities. I hope to ride into old age.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, March 16). Learning to Ride. Personal Experiences. https://ivypanda.com/essays/learning-to-ride-personal-experiences/

"Learning to Ride. Personal Experiences." IvyPanda , 16 Mar. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/learning-to-ride-personal-experiences/.

IvyPanda . (2024) 'Learning to Ride. Personal Experiences'. 16 March.

IvyPanda . 2024. "Learning to Ride. Personal Experiences." March 16, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/learning-to-ride-personal-experiences/.

1. IvyPanda . "Learning to Ride. Personal Experiences." March 16, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/learning-to-ride-personal-experiences/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Learning to Ride. Personal Experiences." March 16, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/learning-to-ride-personal-experiences/.

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• Jun 21, 2023

How to balancing & confidence a scooty for the first time

Balancing and gaining confidence on a scooty for the first time can be challenging, but with practice and patience, you can master it. Here are some tips to help you balance and gain confidence on a scooty:

1. Start in a safe and open space: Find a flat and open area where you can practice without any obstacles or distractions.

2. Familiarize yourself with the controls: Before you start, take some time to become familiar with the different controls on the scooty, such as the accelerator, brakes, and steering.

3. Sit with both feet on the ground: When you first sit on the scooty, keep both feet on the ground and get comfortable with the weight and balance of the vehicle.

4. Start with small movements: Start the engine and slowly release the clutch while giving a little bit of throttle. Practice moving forward and backward slowly, trying to maintain your balance.

5. Keep your eyes up: It’s important to look ahead and keep your eyes up, instead of looking down at the ground or the handlebars. This will help you maintain your balance and steer the scooty in the right direction.

6. Practice turning: Once you are comfortable moving in a straight line, practice making turns at a slow speed. Remember to lean into the turn and keep your eyes up.

7. Build up your speed: As you gain confidence, gradually increase your speed and practice stopping and starting smoothly.

Remember to take your time and practice regularly. With practice, you’ll become more comfortable and confident on your scooty.

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How to Drive a Scooty? Learn in 5 Easy Steps

India has one of the largest two-wheeler users in the world. For this reason alone, bikes and scooters so frequently occupy every nook and corner of Indian streets. As a developing nation and rapidly growing economy, Indians prefer to have access to their mode of transportation at arm’s length. And for regular commuting, nothing beats the scooters – electric and petrol-powered. How to drive a scooty – this article will elucidate on that in detail.

The youths of India become accustomed to bikes and scooters from an early age. Scooters specifically, if one is to normalize, are nothing but an extension of bicycles, excluding peddles and the inclusion of engines. So after learning to cycle properly, riding a scooter is not necessarily a tough nut to crack. Because ultimately, the sole focus lands on the act of balancing.

With the evolution of the Indian automobile universe , owning a scooter has become a reality to many. And what makes them all the more desirable is their affordability, time efficiency, and overall appeal. How to learn to drive a scooty is a frequently thought-of question to occur in people’s minds. Therefore, this article encompasses a wide view on how to drive a scooty for beginners.

Step By Step Guide On How To Drive A Scooty/Scooter

Know your vehicle.

Before we dive into how to drive a scooty for the first time, let’s cover these prerequisites. These are essentials and more than likely to save your neck when stuck in a pickle.

The driver’s manual is the first step. Like it or not, the more you know about the various parts of your scooter, the better you can out-maneuver any unwarranted situations in real-time traffic.

Identify from where the vehicle begets its power, whether it is petrol-powered or EV, whether self-starting or kick-starting. On this note, it should be mentioned that nowadays, all fuel-consuming and electric scooters have self-start as a default setting.

Scooters are best utilized for short-distance commuting. Nonetheless, you should know the maximum power & torque output (i.e., top speed under best conditions) before taking it out for a spin.

Engine oil or 2T oil is a must and must be added without fail after every liter of petrol influx. The petrol gauge is not digitized yet, but you can check the fuel indicator to get an approximate idea of your fuel tank capacity. You should check if it has enough to last the scheduled ride. If the fuel runs out while in motion, turn the knob to reserve and approach the nearest petrol pump.

Scooters come without the clutch and gear function of bikes. So it should not be hard to memorize that the right brake is for the front wheel, and the left brake is dedicated to the rear wheel and has a clutch function as well.

How to drive a Scooty step by step

The comprehensive guide on how to drive a scooty includes a total of 5 significant steps, enlisted below:

Step 1: Know Your Scooter

If it hasn’t been stressed enough, Know Thyself and your scooter. A scooter is, after all, a machine, and you have to know at least the very basics of it. Therefore, get familiar with the driving basics before you take the scooter out into the real-world scenario.

So what defines scooters? The exclusion of gears. And how to start it? Press the rear brake on the left and then clasp the self-start button on the right side. On certain occasions, when the engine has been left unattended for a long time or in winter mornings when the cold has taken a toll on the engine, it is advisable to kick-start the scooter after double-standing it.

After the start-up, make sure to press onto the rear brake firmly until you have decided to move because otherwise, the scooter is likely to move forward on its own. Much like a bicycle, the handlebars also include the front and rear brakes. And it is essential to know which one is which – in all cases, the left brake level attends to the rear wheel, whereas the right handlebar brake is connected to the front brake. Additionally, the right handlebar holds the self-start switch (made compulsory in all scooters now) and accelerator. You are now familiar with the first step on driving a scooty.

Step 2: Baby Steps – Getting a Comfortable Sitting Posture and Firing-up the Engine

Moving on to the next step, sitting correctly and comfortably on the saddle and starting the engine, as directed in the previous point, clutching the left brake and pressing the self-start button on the right handlebar. Scooters attend to people in general, disregarding their age and height. So anyone can easily sit on the seat in an upright or leaning position, as per their choice. The seat height is easy to access and helps maneuver the stop-and-go traffic of Indian roads. However, leaning too much forward or positioning yourself more to the left or right will hinder the driving experience. You might end up falling from the vehicle or, worse, injuring yourself and your fellow drivers/passer-by. How to drive a scooty includes these small but crucial details.

Another thing to most definitely have in your possession is a helmet. Now, wearing a helmet has become a must, and therefore, no matter how deserted the road is, you should always wear a helmet while riding a scooter. And the same can be said for bikes. With this little reminder, you can save yourself from unnecessary harassment of traffic police and ensure your own safety.

Step 3: Take Off

Riding is the best part. And no matter how much you fear to counter gravity with balancing, once you get used to it, this third phase will tempt you the most on this step-by-step guide to how to drive a scooty. Now for the first-timers, let’s clear a slight misconception. It is better to ride on smooth pavements than on rough terrains, i.e., grounds and fields. Taking off includes a combination of three simultaneous activities – gradually lighten your grip on the rear brake, twist the accelerator towards yourself, and lift your feet from the ground to the footboard. It is a point to be noted that constantly stay in motion because it is easy to ride at high speed than at a low, wobbly pace.

The scooter’s accelerator is sensitive; before you know it, it will gain a decent speed of 30-40 kmph. For beginners, this is the best speed to stay at, and if the road is without many bends, well, then it’s your lucky day. Remember not to shift from your sitting position constantly and try to get accustomed to the wind, speed, and other vehicles on the road.

Step 4: Brakes Save Lives

Applying the brakes is an altogether different ability you will get habituated with constant practice. Scooters don’t have disc brakes, so that particular headache remains untouched. However, keeping in mind the quality of lightweight, tire height, and ground clearance, rear brakes (on the left-hand side) come in handy the most, while the front brake (on the right-hand side) calls for occasional usage. Do not pull the left brake lever at once; instead, try decreasing the speed and applying brakes when you see a stop ahead.

The first case might result in tires skidding and you losing balance. Until you have reached the final stop, only then use the front brakes to halt your scooter completely. Turning corners is also to be done with the help of brakes, rear brakes specifically. Keep an eye out for incoming traffic and slowing vehicles ahead, and then act accordingly by directing the handlebar to the left/right.

Step 5: Face the Traffic

Now that you have more confidence in your abilities, try taking the scooters out in real traffic. For added measure, take a person with a driver’s license on your passenger seat. Riding in traffic will test you in more ways than you can think of and ultimately help you grow as a rider. Situations like these will heighten your senses, help develop your ability to navigate brake-accelerator function, and boost your confidence simultaneously.

On a final note, do not be discouraged if you face hindrances on the road. The streets are full of idiots, and as a sensible citizen that you are, distinguish yourself from them and always follow traffic rules. Thus we have concluded this guide on how to drive a scooty. You might like to read the best mileage scooters in India .

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