Ride A Scooter Safely

By Lindsey Miller in News on Jun 8, 2010 9:00PM

We write a lot about bicycles here at Chicagoist, but today we're going to talk about the motor scooter, which is also two-wheeled and also rapidly rising in popularity. The Tribune reports that in Illinois, scooter registrations have increased more than 300 percent since 2006. And as prices fall on models imported from China, Taiwan, and India, they get still more popular as a cheaper and less-polluting alternative to the car.

Officials worry that an influx in inexperienced scooter drivers this season will bring an influx of accidents as well. Last year, the Illinois Department of Transportation reported that three people driving motor scooters were killed (compared to 127 riding motorcycles). They're concerned that many new riders will take to the streets in heavy traffic without the proper safety training and have trouble staying visible and keeping up with the other traffic.

Safe driving isn't as easy as just hopping on the scooter and being extra careful. Scooter drivers need to get a permit (scroll to the end) and pass a written and sometimes a road test to get a license. Drivers need an L-class license for scooters up to 149 cc, and an M-class license for scooters 150 cc or above (and motorcycles). Oh, and wear a helmet.

There are several local scooter driving classes to help you on your safe way. For most you need a permit and your own safety gear and scooter:

• Illinois Council of Safety: Scooter rider courses are available on Saturdays throughout the summer in West Chicago at 1800 W. Hawthorne Lane. $295, scooter and helmet included.
• Motorcycle Riding School: Scooter classes are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays throughout the summer and fall. The classroom is located at 1400 N. Halsted or near United Center. $175, plus $55 for a license test.
• Ride Chicago: Scooter classes are held for three hours on Fridays throughout the summer and fall at 185 S. Damen near the United Center. $175, plus $40 for a license test.