Mama's got a new set of wheels!

I am going to beg the indulgence of the community...and giggle, grin, and boast a bit here!

My commute to work is 2 1/2 miles. Mr. Cat has a 2 mile commute.

I've looked at bicycles but the last bit of the ride is a very, very steep hill. Now I have been driving a 1998 Saturn that gets pretty good gas mileage...26 city and 28 or so highway. Yet, I felt I could do more to save gas and be more efficient in my mini-commute. Well, Mr. Cat and I did the math on mileage, gas costs, and other costs of ownership.

Mr. Cat did some preliminary checking, he did the online reviews analysis, and we just took delivery of:

His and Hers Scooters!

Yep...Scooters!

Yamaha Vino Classic ~ web page

I did the math on my 2 1/2 mile commute (5 round trip) and the Northern CA gas prices of $3.59+ for unleaded. This will pay for itself in under 3 years of regular riding!

Yahama Vino 125

Mr. Cat drives a diesel 3/4 ton pickup truck that gets 6-10 miles per gallon city. His scooter will get 70 or so mpg (reality per sales guy...not the 80+ advertised). And diesel locally is $4.29 to $4.39 a gallon!

We get to have fun...reduce our carbon imprint...and save money!
See you on city streets! We sure aren't going to ride them anywhere else.

•  ::looks out the window::

  Scooters, eh? I'd die of frostbite. And can we call it a motorbike, please? Scooter just sounds so...Libbyesque.

  by PerfectStormer on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:50:53 PM PDT

  •  It's low 60's with a chill in the wind today

    We have about 9 months of really good riding weather. And consider...I get to buy leather riding clothes...woo hoo!

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:52:34 PM PDT

    •  How does it handle

      in the 7-13" of snow my area is getting today? ;>)

      I don't think you're crazy in the least. Enjoy and get really really good helmets!

      by bleeding heart on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:05:45 PM PDT

      •  It's got a nice feel...

        After I've been on it for a week or two, I'm sure it will actually feel better. I'm still getting accustomed to this one.

        by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:07:44 PM PDT

        •  so now you're going to have to work

          on impersonating Eddie Izzard impersonating Italian people on scooters going "ciao!"

          by elmo on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:30:01 PM PDT

    •  Vino is great.

      A very popular model here in Asia for about 10 years.

      In China, we use models modified for LP gas which burns cleaner.

      But next time (or next year) why not consider an electric bicyle? It would nicely complement your sexy/sporty scooter for those quick trips around the negiborhood.

      Ride Safe & Have Fun. You're never too old to be charming, speedy girl chased by a handsome young punk on a two wheeler.

      If you want some cool Vino stuff go here:

      Vino Homepage (JP)

      Vino Model Photo Index (JP)

      Vino Wallpaper Gallery (JP)

      Have Fun!

      by koNko on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 10:18:34 PM PDT

  •  Scooter? All I see is white...

    

    by Debbie in ME on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:53:16 PM PDT

  •  Hey! I have a nephew named "Skooter"

    and he's a doll!

    by Pandoras Box on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:55:09 PM PDT

    •  I have a dog named Scooter

      She gets remarkably good mileage.

      by martydd on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:59:41 PM PDT

      •  lol! :p

        by Pandoras Box on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 03:52:46 PM PDT

•  Good for you, BUT.....

  ....BE CAREFUL...I've known a couple people who ended up in emergency rooms because of these things!

  by bluestateonian on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:50:58 PM PDT

  •  Mine has a top speed of about 35mph

    and all streets are posted 25 on my way to work. I'm kind of a wimp...I'll be careful!

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:51:43 PM PDT

    •  Wear a helmet, SC! And take the backroads at

      twilight...

      by Mogolori on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:54:48 PM PDT

      •  I'm looking forward to nearby rides on weekends

        We are only a couple of miles from China Camp State Park in CA. A lovely little back road, posted 35!

        by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:05:34 PM PDT

        •  If you're in Santa Venetia

          then you can ride to Terra Linda on a scooter on San Pablo Ave under the freeway and then Los Ranchitos Rd.  Sadly, I don't think there's a good route over the ridge to old San Rafael other than the long way around Pt. San Pedro.

          by Rolfyboy6 on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:40:25 PM PDT

          •  North San Pedro Road via a side road

            now connects to Lincoln Avenue! Downtown San Rafael is surface streets all the way!

            by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:45:12 PM PDT

            •  Ah, they've finally added that in.

              It used to be that North San Rafael was cut off except for the freeway.  Now that scooter really makes sense.

              by Rolfyboy6 on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 02:25:01 PM PDT

      •  SC: Helmet helmet helmet! & Reflective Clothing!

        And please be careful driving on any roads during twilight - since I live rurally, our roads usually aren't well lit, so I plead for extreme caution on your part in driving rural roads during twilight or adverse weather situations - some of our country drivers tend to be a bit more lax in seeing small "road hazards" like cyclists and scooters.

        sigh.  HOw did I get so old so suddenly?

        by Uncle Moji on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:31:23 PM PDT

    •  It's not so much how fast you're going,

      but more important that motorists can SEE you.  I lived for 5 years in Monterey, and rode my bike to my job (very close to my apartment, and no hill), so I know you'll be able to use your scooter virtually all year 'round.  Just put a big yellow flag on it, or always wear a bright yellow windbreaker so you're visible to others.  And, enjoy the ride - I envy you!

      by Hanging Up My Tusks on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:21:00 PM PDT

      •  Oh riding in Monterey...now I'm jealous

        We are considering getting a truck mount. Load the bigger scooter on the pickup for when we travel. Then use the scooter for around town! I like the flag idea!

        by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:29:42 PM PDT

      •  Yup, love this place...

        I lived in Santa Cruz for 25 years and am now in San Jose.  I put at least 15,000 miles a year on my bike every year, and <1k on my truck.</p>

        It's the only way to get through traffic around here!

        Enjoy the scooters, they are big fun!

        by Fast Bike on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:42:34 PM PDT

        •  I didn't put nearly that many miles

          on my bike, but I was able to essentially park my car for the time I spent in Monterey.  Only time I used it was to fetch big grocery loads and take the occasional out of town trip.  Wonderful to live in a place where it's possible to get around on a bike virtually year 'round, no?

          by Hanging Up My Tusks on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 09:04:30 PM PDT

    •  unfortunately not practical for some of us

      my commute is 25 miles of limited access highway.  Even in good weather, the problem is that it would not go fast enough to allow me on those roads

      I will do at least one more year after the current one at the same school, but I may then retire from that system and go to work for one closer.  Then something like that would work.

      For now, I will have to be happy with my 5-=speed Honda Civic hybrid.  On a warm day I can average 60+ MPG on my commute, and in worst case, when in a hurry and pushing it, I still get over 50 MPG

      by teacherken on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:40:53 PM PDT

    •  Remember cars won't be looking for motorbikes....

      Driveways, intersections: act like you're invisible.

      by netguyct on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 02:01:17 PM PDT

•  Tip jar...for fun not gas!

  Let's ride!

  by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:50:59 PM PDT

  •  you have helmets, right?

    by Pandoras Box on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:55:37 PM PDT

    •  Yeah...boring white ones for now...

      by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:56:14 PM PDT

      •  as long as you've got 'em!

        by Pandoras Box on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:57:26 PM PDT

        •  We used to ride before...I rode Honda 90cc

          back in the early 80's and Mr. Cat rode a big Honda 750. Being old farts we ride safely. The extra kicker is that CA has mandatory helmet laws and he works with law enforcement. We gotta behave!

          by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:00:08 PM PDT

          •  Sadly, Pennsylvania stupidly

            repealed their mandatory helmet laws a few years back.  The result? Massive increases in TBI and deaths in motorcycle accidents.  

            by Pandoras Box on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 02:36:36 PM PDT

          •  Be Safe!

            So you have some street 2-wheeler experience? Good. Just in case, I'll give you my nugget of advice from 30+ years riding: ALWAYS assume you are invisible. People CANNOT see you. They WILL pull in front of you and cut you off. It's much easier to avoid these goofy actions if you are expecting them. Tougher when your first reaction is surprise.

            by PistonMoaned on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 04:58:06 PM PDT

          •  Heh, before I read this

            I was going to give you my big two wheel schpiel. If you've been there already, no need.

            Enjoy N.Cal in the open. I may just have to get me another motorcycle/scooter sometime soon myself.

            by justme on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:36:45 PM PDT

      •  Helmets

        Scorpion is my favorite helmet. Very high quality and reasonable price.
        http://www.scorpionusa.com/...

        by PistonMoaned on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:02:45 PM PDT

        •  Thanks for the link...

          I like the colors...and really want a neon pink one! I bookmarked the page. For now I'll enjoy the white one that I have!

          by SallyCat on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:13:39 PM PDT

•  Oh how CUTE!!!

  I can totally picture you and Mr Cat in your helmets riding on those beauties. Wonderful idea. Stay safe though - watch out for those behemoth vehicles please.

  by SanDiegoDem on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:52:02 PM PDT

•  And what color(s) did you two select? n/t

  by MTmofo on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:52:30 PM PDT

  •  The two colors you see...

    I get raspberry and he got the blue!

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:53:07 PM PDT

    •  If his scooter were a sno-cone

      it would be raspberry colored too!

      Why the hell is raspberry sno-cone syrup blue, anyhow?

      by MTmofo on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:55:59 PM PDT

    •  Harley Davison offers the same color

      but I don't think they call it "Raspberry."

      by john07801 on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 02:51:10 PM PDT

•  sweeeeeeeet! That's great, SallyCat.

  I like it.  Smaller town, I'd go scooter.  I saw a neat little Chinese electric car that I'm saving up for.  I need a place to put my groceries, and scooters are too small for livin' in LA.

  by bubbanomics on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:53:37 PM PDT

  •  The groceries are a factor and we have

    been working on consolidating all our shopping to one time on weekend. Then we take the car which does get about 26 city.

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:30:54 PM PDT

    •  See also timbuk2 courier bags.

      They are designed to be worn on a 2 wheeled vehicle (meaning the wide, padded strap is correctly placed & it has a "belly strap" to hold it in place), pretty waterproof, & durable as hell. I have one that is conservatively 15 yrs old & perfectly serviceable (if dirty).

      A full sized one will hold an entire case of copier paper or a case & a half of beer (trust me)...

      by Independant Man on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 08:13:16 PM PDT

    •  My old Vespa was great for groceries

      and oh, do I miss it... it was the perfect vehicle for San Francisco, I even rode down the coast highway to go camping around Big Sur. Had a big rear rack, just right for a full-size backpack with sleeping bag, or a double-size crate of groceries (plus one one the floor between my knees--the brakes are on the handlebars so that's OK), or on one day 2 huge sacks of peat for the garden and a box full of plants. And room on the seat for my kid as well.
      Had some great rides and camping trips in Oregon, though I did take a nasty slide once in the gravel parking lot at Timberline Lodge.
      My and mr. expatyank would love to have a pair of 'em again...

      by expatyank on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 06:00:29 PM PDT

•  sweet !! congratulations

  saucy new ride. rock on.

  and/but DO ride safely / smartly / defensively.

  i'm sure that i don't have to tell you of the ample supply of oblivious automotive asshattery that is endlessly perpetrated in sf at the expense of pedestrians and cyclists...

  by homo neurotic on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:53:48 PM PDT

•  Sally the ScooterCat! Nice Upgrade!

  That's absolutely awesome SallyCat.  I'm looking at scooters myself; seems a waste to take a whole car to miles to the train.  Scooters are also a steampunk obsession in general

  by SteamPunkX on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:53:51 PM PDT

  •  That is one sweeeet scotter!

    Now I'm looking for coordinating jacket and helmet. The boring white helmet will do for now but I think I'm going for pink leather and helmet!

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:55:57 PM PDT

    •  Pink is perfect.

      The universally complimentary color, or so they say. :)

      by SteamPunkX on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:01:02 PM PDT

    •  Yellow is the most visible color

      per some safety article I read years ago.

      by Hanging Up My Tusks on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:23:38 PM PDT

•  Hope you enjoy them

  As for me, I'll be taking the bus with many of my peon comrades.

  by DH from MD on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:55:59 PM PDT

•  watch out for the moonwalking bear!

  by 2501 on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:56:03 PM PDT

  •  Best advice EVER. EOM

    by SteamPunkX on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:58:13 PM PDT

•  My jacket's gonna be cut and slim and checked,

  Maybe a touch of seersucker, with an open neck.

  I ride a g.s. scooter with my hair cut neat,

  Wear my wartime coat in the wind and sleet.

  by Inland on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:56:57 PM PDT

•  Sally - Now you have me thinking.

  A bear on a scooter outside of the circus - on the loose - think I could get away with it?

  by llbear on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 12:59:48 PM PDT

  •  If I can you can....

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:00:59 PM PDT

•  Are They Making Motor Trikes Yet for the Elderly?

  There are certainly have been many of the pedal variety for years.

  And btw--any electric scooters and trikes yet?

  by Gooserock on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:00:27 PM PDT

  •  Trikes....yeah Harley has one

    or they are custom. Friends we had dinner with last night are considering one, and another Harley rider they know got one.

    Electric Scooters...yes. We looked at the Zap...but it was too heavy for me because of the battery size.

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:03:20 PM PDT

  •  Piaggio make a scooter called the MP3

    that has two front wheels... Honda made a model called the Gyro in the mid-late eighties with two in the rear (very rare at this point)

    Many full size or touring models can be turned into trikes with full aftermarket kits.

    by Independant Man on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:04:54 PM PDT

    •  The Piaggio Ape

      is a cool three-wheeler, similar to the Indian tuk-tuk. The mini-truck version is extra cool, a lot of city vehicles un UK towns are this type. The fancy Indian place around the corner from us uses something similar as their delivery van, really cute.
      They run on a 50cc-175cc engine, usually a two-stroke I think (though they may have oil injection in the new ones).

      by expatyank on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 06:07:02 PM PDT

  •  YEP - and cool ones, too

    The Aperta, now on sale.

    

    

    by llbear on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:22:12 PM PDT

    •  Whoa! What an Amazing Vehicle!

      OK, now my Star Trek dreams may override my head injury fears.

      by Uncle Moji on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:34:41 PM PDT

    •  This is what I want to get for my next car

      someday...when I can afford it... :)

      by roses on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:59:39 PM PDT

•  Remember to put on the training wheels on the

  days that it rains!  ;-)

  Congrats on your new ride!

  by funluvn1 on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:01:43 PM PDT

  •  Days that it rains...car!

    I'm in this for fun gas savings not masochist!

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:03:56 PM PDT

•  The safest scooter out there

  was the BMW C1. Right. Was.

  No commercial success. Just like the 50 MPG Volkswagen Polo they sold here in Germany. That's the downside of the environmental debate. People are bitching about the manufacturers not doing their job, but when they offer something no-one buys it.

  Glad you did.

  by RandomGuyFromGermany on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:04:04 PM PDT

•  Two wheels are better than four

  Cats really shouldn't drive cars.

  

  by BobzCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:06:26 PM PDT

•  wow, i'd love to be able to use a scooter

  but somehow i don't think it would be wise on the long island expressway or the mid-town tunnel :)

  by mad cow on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:06:54 PM PDT

  •  Depends...

    the models that Sally & Mr Cat bought might not, but either the Honda Silverwing or the Suzuki Burgman are more substantial, have more powerful (though still efficient, say 45~50 mpg) engines & larger diameter tires for greater high-speed stability. Both models also offer a large (2 full-face helmets +) underseat storage area as well...

    by Independant Man on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:13:49 PM PDT

    •  The larger ones are nice and had plenty of power

      for freeway. We really liked the Honda but for our local driving decided against it. The Silverwing also has nice 'sit' to it...which is as important, we think as power and efficiency.

      by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:16:54 PM PDT

      •  Either of those

        is actually as fast as my bike (Suzuki SV650)...

        When we prepped the first Silverwing our dealership got the tech who prepped it pulled a huge stand-up wheelie (not your thing I know, but impressive nonetheless, LOL)

        And I absolutely agree, ergonomics is a very important facet of buying a bike.

        by Independant Man on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:20:27 PM PDT

    •  Yeah but

      have you seen the LIE (Long Island Expy)?

      Cars and trucks and lots of crazy drivers!

      by Dark UltraValia on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 04:09:58 PM PDT

      •  Like a barricuda swimming in baitfish mi amigo n/

        by Independant Man on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 04:25:32 PM PDT

•  Cool...just be careful, and get yourself a

  very bright and colorful helmet.  And matching leather jackets that say "Hell's Pooties" on the back.

  by darthstar on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:07:22 PM PDT

  •  Well, I've already named it "The Broomstick"

    Since I've been out of the broomcloset since 2001 I thought it would be fun to 'ride" one to work!

    Added accessories will include:
    License plate frame that says: My other car is a broomstick!
    Appropriate decals / art work on helmet ~ still looking!

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:09:52 PM PDT

•  Those are adorable!

  Congratulations to the Cat family.
  Just a wee warning. A couple of my friends own scooters. Once says that people love to touch it. Like it's a toy.
  And the other's was stolen.
  Have lots of fun with them!

  by shayera on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:09:25 PM PDT

•  Good for you

  though, just a small criticism from a motorsports tech. The 49cc 4-stroke powering the vino is pretty under-powered, you're still gonna have a slow trip up that hill (well, I would anyway, but I'm a 200# guy), and I personally wouldn't buy anything with dual drum brakes.

  That said, have fun & be careful... if you have any interest I could find a listing for a cool euro-product that is a combination "cockpit" cover/lap blanket (in case you get caught in an unexpected rainstorm, it happens).

  by Independant Man on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:10:11 PM PDT

  •  The cover / lap blanket sounds great!

    Long term we'll be using these out of the suburbs and with more erratic weather. We're just north of SF and weather is pretty predictable except for coastal winds.  sally2cat at gmail

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:12:56 PM PDT

    •  No problem, I'll have to look it up

      I can't remember the mfg right this moment, but I'll let you know...

      by Independant Man on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:16:26 PM PDT

•  Congratulations on your new additions.

  I don't think they would ever pay for themselves here!  
  I can totally visualize SallyCat in leather!  :-)

  by Common Sense Mainer on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:11:02 PM PDT

  •  Coming from you...that is a nice compliment

    Now if I can get someone locally to take me to the good leather shops in SF!

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:32:21 PM PDT

•  I am impressed and have been considering

  one of these.  They are essentially emission free.  But  they barely rise to scooter status, so are not for everyone.  

  Anyway, Sally, you have inspired me to investigate further.  Living in SF, there is no excuse for not having alternative transportation.

  by gloryous1 on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:12:42 PM PDT

  •  I love my scooter.

    I want one that is a little bigger actually, so that I can keep up on busier trafficways.  Something that goes that slow scares me a little, so be careful.

    by Scout Finch on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:33:48 PM PDT

•  I've always intended

  to be one of the old ladies on motorcycles that you see around.  I've got another 15 years before I actually intend on getting one.

  by loggersbrat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:13:58 PM PDT

•  Ride with the wind, you Fun Cats! :)

  

  by PhillyGal on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:15:38 PM PDT

  •  As soon as I get pics in the leather

    I'll get up early for Cheers & Jeers!

    So good to see a pootie pic for every occasion.

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:18:02 PM PDT

•  What a great idea!

  You should do a follow up diary in about a month and tell us how you like them.

  by maryb2004 on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:20:33 PM PDT

•  You are going to love it!

  I just got mine fired up for the first time the other day.  Sadly, I discovered a leak in the tire, but I'll be cruisin' on my scooter soon.  My primary mode of transportation when it's warm.  I spend about $3 per week on gas.  :)

  by Scout Finch on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:30:27 PM PDT

  •  that's what I hear from any that ride them!

    It's amazing the number of people I've met, including our CEO (a woman), that have scooters or used to ride them!

    I jokingly told the spouse I was going to put some $5 bills in the storage compartment...no more debit cards at $30 for gas! With my planned rides to work I'm looking at $5 every 3 or 4 weeks!

    by SallyCat on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:43:35 PM PDT

    •  Get a good trunk.

      And a cool helmet.  :)  And take your time until you get used to it.  You will be surprised how many drivers will do stupid things like turn in front of you.  Stay alert at all times, and enjoy the ride!

      by Scout Finch on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 01:48:24 PM PDT

•  a horn

  Consider getting a compressed gas horn- they are worth it in traffic for getting the attention of a spaced out driver who has the windows up & the music blasting.

  by azureblue on Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 02:16:31 PM PDT

•  You are living my dream!!!!

  I'm looking forward to the day I can join you on my scooter!!

  by World Citizen on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 03:45:26 PM PDT

•  Congrats Sally and Mr. Cat!!

  That's great!  Have fun, reduce your carbon footprint, I love it~!  Be safe, and enjoy!  

  P.S. I love Eco-diary rescue... I would have missed this otherwise.

  by shermanesq on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 03:47:23 PM PDT

•  Urbanscootin.com

  Congrats on the Vino's.  I used to have a Honda metro, and it was perfect for the town I lived in.  I lived just outside the metro area, I would ride my scooter downtown and save a FORTUNE on parking, and gas :P

  I just thought I would shout out the the www.urbanscootin.com forum, they are an invaluable source of scooter tips, tricks, and advice.

  Cheers!

  by PHiZ on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 03:53:41 PM PDT

  •  Thanks for the link!

    The metro was my second choice...white with a blue pattern this year! It had just a slightly different sit than the vino. I'll get to the web site and join the forum!

    Thanks!

    by SallyCat on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:30:07 PM PDT

•  you go!

  and gorgeous weather this afternoon to try it out...

  by dotcommodity on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 03:55:48 PM PDT

•  Some Advice - I ride an Aprilia Scarabeo 150

  Bought it last year used.  It's a 2003.  Not just because it gets 70mpg, but also for the fun of it.  The Scarabeo 150 is a bit more like an automatic motorcycle.  It'll do 65 mph, and has 15" wheels which makes it more stable at speed, but harder to make tight turns.  I love it.  I've modified it with a Givi top case, and a small windshield.

  I looked at the vino.  They're nice, I just needed something a bit faster for my commute.  I don't take the Scarabeo on the freeway, but I take some major city roads at 50 mph.

  I want to recommend safety.

  First, check out the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, and see if they are offering any scooter safety classes in your area.  Their is an impression that these are for kids, but there's a lot to think about even when riding a scoot.  Always ride defensively, and be aware of what the cars are doing.  I actually took their motorcycle safety course, and obtained my license this way.

  Second, ATGATT.  All the gear, all the time.  At a minimum, wear a helmet, a jacket, gloves and boots.  There is a tendency to not think these are necessary on a scooter, but even at 30 mph a get off is going to hurt like hell.   The most painful part is road rash... this is where the road takes your skin off from sliding.  Jeans and a thin jacket don't help, they disintegrate almost immediately.

  On helmets... They're all going to protect your noggin, even the cheapest have to meet a certain spec for that.  What I found differentiates them is the comfort and air flow.  I started out with an open face HJC AC-3, which cost me around $125.  After about 3 months I migrated to a Shoei RF-1000 for $325.  The Shoei is full faced, and at first that scared me that I'd feel closed in, but it's actually not bad and it has better air flow than the open faced to boot.

  Whatever you do, make sure the helmet fits well.  That's why i recommend buying locally rather than online, as you need to be able to try it on.

  On Jackets... There are numerous styles, and it depends on the weather.  I have two jackets now.  A mesh one for summer, and a textile one for spring/fall.  Even the mesh has a liner which you can put in which is waterproof and warm, though and I've worn it in 60 degree full downpour and was fine.  Remember windchill, moving at 30-40 mph is the equivalent of a 30-40 mph wind.  So stay warm.

  Corazzo makes some stylish jackets for scooterists.  They include armor in the shoulders, elbows and back, as well as a durable cordura like fabric to protect your skin.  Otherwise there are tons of companies making motorcycle jackets, and prices range from $100 on up to $1000.

  Gloves... You may end up with several pairs.  I have several pairs.  Two that are waterproof, and one that is insulated and then just some regular leather ones for summer riding.  Hands are the first thing to get cold when it rains or starts to chill.

  Boots... I cannot emphasize this enough.  I started off just wearing some old hiking boots, but bought a pair of motorcycle boots.  Look around, and there are good touring ones which are soft and easy to wear.  What's good about boots is not only do they protect in a get off, but the soles are usually a nice sticky rubber which is oil resistant so when you have your feet down at a stop sign, where all the cars have been dripping oil you won't slip and fall over.

  Also motorcycle pants are nice to have, they'll protect your skin in a fall, but also are waterproof and warm.  I wear a pair of Firstgear overpants when commuting to work and take them off and stow them in my bag when I get there.

  I commuted up until November last year.  I'm in Minnesota, and basically I stopped once it go below 40 degrees and was starting to freeze.  In California, you ought to be able to ride all year round but you'll need some warm waterproof clothes in the winter.

  by The Other Steve on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 04:51:11 PM PDT

  •  Double-reccomend

    Get a full face helmet! They don't look as cool, and you don't get the great "wind in the face" thing, but I might not have a jaw right now if it wasn't for my SNELL rated helmet. I'm not as good as I should be on some of my gear but I always wear the full faced helmet. It makes the biggest difference between life and death.

    by Pd on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:16:54 PM PDT

  •  Good Points!

    Thanks Steve for the good advice- don't skimp on riding gear. I've got a $700 Aerostitch riding suit (www.aerostitch.com) and it's worth every cent. Add in the $200 Nolan "flip front" helmet, gloves, and boots and I've got over $1000 invested in riding gear. But it's worth every cent, and given the aerostitch suits 100,000 mile+ life it doesn't cost that much.

    You'll find you quickly outgrow the scooters and move up to 500 cc. motorcycles, which is all you'll probably ever need. So don't limit your riding gear to the world of 50 cc. scooters!

    by SlyDi on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:22:07 PM PDT

    •  Ahh, Aerostitch

      From right here in Minnesota. :-)

      I plan on keeping the scooter for a few years yet, but I've certainly considered maybe in the future getting a larger bike.  I was thinking if I do, to get something suitable for touring cross country.  Not a Gold Wing, but maybe a Yamaha FJR touring bike.  I saw a used one at the dealer and thought it was pretty sweet.

      I probably should have done this years ago, but on the other hand when I was younger I couldn't afford to buy everything one needs.

      Limitation now is garage space.  I either buy a Smart car, or I have to rent a storage unit. :-)

      by The Other Steve on Sun Mar 23, 2008 at 05:05:52 PM PDT

  •  I just printed your comment...I'll be reading it

    lots!

    Great advice and lots of information to absorb, and I'll read it over and over!

    Thank you so much!

    by SallyCat on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:32:17 PM PDT

    •  All of this comes from MSF

      Check out their website, they have some basic information there.  In their classes, they stress equipment and maintaining your ride and defensive riding.  

      You can't prevent all accidents, but you can certainly prevent the ones you are in control of, and many are the fault of the rider.  Locking brakes, going into turns too fast, hitting gravel wrong, etc.  Just good to be aware of what to watch out for, and how to respond.

      by The Other Steve on Sun Mar 23, 2008 at 05:12:05 PM PDT

•  COOL!

  Just saw your diary in the eco-rescue. I commute to work in the SF area on my old (70s) vespa almost every day. I'm not saving the environment with it (dirty old 2 stroke) but  it's an incredible amount of fun.

  The veno is a solid scooter that can take a beating and keep running. They're a great choice for short commutes and come from a reliable company. So many new scooterists buy inexpensive, unsafe, and illegal Chinese-made junk. For people perusing this thread: Yamaha, Honda, Piaggio, (and my favorite new scooters: Kymco and Genuine) are the solid brands.

  Here are a few tips I've learned and some things to think over:

  Your vino won't have much pickup. Other people have said this but it will be a very big deal on Marin county backroads. I very, very strongly suggest against riding the thing on county roads with speed limits above 25. The big danger is that the vino is a small looking scooter and people will want to go faster than you and will treat you like a bicycle. They'll try to pass you in all sorts of crazy-stupid ways. Your husband's scoot should do just fine as long as he rides defensively and makes sure to own the road.

  Remember that there are only two kinds of cyclists: those who have crashed and those who haven't crashed yet. I'm in the former category. It hurts. A lot. I am very lucky to be alive and there was nothing I could have done to have avoided the incident. Crashing a scooter, even at less than 25mph, can be fatal. Accidents that wouldn't even merit exchanging information in a car can be fatal to a scooter. It is super-super-super dangerous. Never take your mind off the road and ride as if none of the drivers can see you. Make sure you have good medical insurance.

  I you haven't been riding for a long time, take the MSF class. It may be geared to motorcyclists but there are plenty of good . You can also get discounts with some insurance companies for taking the course.

  Don't get offended when motorcyclists don't wave at you. I think a lot of them feel threatened by us. De-masculinizing the sport or something like that. Whatever. I think my scooter's hot. I always give 'em a big smile and wave.

  Finally, have fun and get to know some other local scooterists. The Bay Area is perfect scooter country and there's nothing more exciting than a large group ride around the city/country!

  Also: Check out
  First Kick
  And
  SF Scooter Center
  SFSC sometimes does work on my scoot. Barry (the owner) is great.

  Enjoy the ride!

  by Pd on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:11:46 PM PDT

  •  Oh my another comment to print out!

    I'm looking forward to checking out other scooter stores! We went to G&B Motorsports in Petaluma. Very helpful, courteous, and didn't treat me like an 'dumb woman'.

    My friends that ride Harleys are very encouraging. They think anyone on two motorized wheels are good!

    by SallyCat on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:37:52 PM PDT

  •  Shout out for a great mechanic!

    Barry Gwin used to work on our Vespas too, back when he were just a speedy little mod boy (hard to believe that was 20 years ago...) I'll never forget the day he finally diagnosed my puzzling carb problem--we took the whole thing apart and found that the last mechanic who worked on it had apparently left the change for his coffee in it, LOL!
    There was quite an interesting crowd around the shop back then, hope there still is. Next time you see him, ask him whatever happened to the Heinkel he found in a ditch in Marin. It's a good story...

    by expatyank on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 06:17:06 PM PDT

•  Welcome to the Scooter Revolution

  I've been riding mine since September.  It's big fun, cheap and lessens my footprint.

  All good things.

  Just be careful and wear a helmet--I've been hit by a car on mine and the helmet saved my life.

  by BillN on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:17:00 PM PDT

•  How fast will the 125 cc scooter go?

  I need something that will go a little faster, as I might have to go on some 40 mph and 45 mph roads on my 5-mile trip to work.

  by ekwhite on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:19:50 PM PDT

  •  I don't know about the vino

    But I've gone on group rides with some modern 125cc scooters that can almost keep up with my 200cc '79 vespa. If you need to cruse regularly at 40/45mph, I'd get at least a 150cc scoot. I've gone on the freeway on my vespa - scary as heck but do-able.

    by Pd on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:27:40 PM PDT

  •  The spouse says it cruises at 40 easily...

    He used it to go to the market this afternoon and said it was easy to get to 40 on city streets. It will go up to 55 easily, but not recommended for freeway. He will use on back roads that posted max 55.

    It has bigger wheels than the 50cc and cruises with two, up to 330 pounds, it says. He's 180 and I'm 110 and it was a little bumpy on rough roads (very different ride from the Honda 750 he used to ride!). But it had lots of get up and go for the two of us around the neighborhood.

    by SallyCat on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:35:58 PM PDT

•  A good 125 should cruise around 45...

  And hit higher speeds, The Buddy 125 gets up to 65 pretty quick.  All depending on rider weight, of course.

  by BillN on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:22:09 PM PDT

•  And, check out Scooters for Obama!

  Scooters for Obama!

  by BillN on Sat Mar 22, 2008 at 05:32:41 PM PDT

•  Drive carefully ...