At the end was a comment that, in light of my previous post, makes a good point.
It was from a man named Neil who said, in part, "sheesh, I sure hope these boomers bopping back to two wheels spend a little time practicing, maybe even get their M1 endorsement like their supposed to do -- mistakes on two wheels are mistakes on two wheels, regardless of whether you're riding a step-through with automatic trannie or straddling a Harley."
In Pennsylvania, they offer free motorcycle beginner's courses.
You do need a motorcycle permit, which you get by taking a test, much like a driving test, at the DMV. There is a cost for the permit, $10, but you don't have to make an appointment, just show up and take the test.
I have to admit, I have yet to do this, but scooters are treated differently in Pa.
According to the DMV's Web site, I will need to get my scooter inspected and it must have a license plate. It doesn't say anything about engine requirements. I've heard that if the engine is 50cc or below, you don't need to do this, but the DMV doesn't say that anywhere on its site.
The DMV site does say "Its engine must produce between 1.5 and 5 brake horsepower."
I don't know if that means it can't be driven on the road if it doesn't or what, but I think my scooter is well above that.
You must have protection for your eyes if you ride a scooter in Pa. And it says helmets are required for scooter passengers and "some drivers."
The list it gives is as follows:
* Driving a three-wheeled, closed cab scooter
* Older than 21 and have operated a motorcycle for at least two years
* Older than 21 and have completed a motorcycle rider safety course approved by PennDOT
* A passenger aged 21 or older who rides with an exempted driver
So helmet for me until I pass that basic safety course.
Oddly, the site also says, while motorcyclists with experience don't have to wear a helmet, bicyclists do. Hmmmm.
Sorry, but I think bikes are a little safer than a speeding motorcycle/scooter.
