Hi djt21,

as far as safety goes, one of our experts will answer soon about that.

Being a rider myself, I can tell you that there are pros and cons. It IS true that you on a scooter/bike you have to pay much more attention not only to what YOU do, but also to what OTHERS do on the road. You're obviously more exposed, so you have to be much more on the lookout for potential dangers.

I'm sure one of our experts will be able to give you a more technical answer soon.

Regarding stories on two wheels, we have quite a few! Just take a look at the Get On blog (http://www.geton.co.uk/blogs)! It's full of inspirational stories that make you want to get on two wheels as soon as possible.

A few of my personal favorites:

http://www.geton.co.uk/blogs/posts/what-they-dont-teach-you-or-surviving...

http://www.geton.co.uk/blogs/posts/why-i-ride-bike

http://www.geton.co.uk/blogs/posts/jennie-gow-blog-ive-passed-my-bike-test

http://www.geton.co.uk/blogs/posts/riding-london

And remember that the Free Ride is a great way to try riding in a safe environment, with trainers who you answer all your questions.

So if you haven't already, book one! http://www.geton.co.uk/content/whats-it-all-about

Cecilia

Hi,

I'm hot on your heels age wise. Did a get on freebie a couple of months ago, wen't onto my CBT and have been riding a Honda Varadero to and from work and everywhere else since.

Yes it feels a little odd to be a learner again, 24 years after the last time. And I too was a little cautious (partly not trusting myself and partly not trusting others). But actually I'm loving every minute.

You do have to concentrate more, but that is one of the advantages in a way. I go to and from work not thinking about it and being forced to switch off by the need to concentrate. It's kind of liberating and in a strange way calming. No music/radio just the smell of the Kebab shop/grass cuttings etc. (OK and thge sewerage works). But I find myself feeling extremely involved in my surroundings on one hand due to the smells and sounds and lack of tin cage, but isolated too by the cocoon of my crash helmet. Its difficult to describe, your just going to have to do it!

I'm going to take it slowly, not planning a Triumph Rocket by the end of the month, but I do know I'm going to enjoy it every step of the way.

Chris

Hi djt21

Firstly, follow Cecilia's advice and try the free ride to see if you like it - I think that you will.

Next get the best training you can - beware of schools who boast of getting you through the test in a 'day' or whatever.  You need someone to teach you to ride, not just pass your test - there is a big difference.

When you have passed your test (you will!) remember that you now start to learn for real - take it steady and go for post test training to improve your skill base.

Then ride defensively, imagine everyone could be out to get you (they are not of course but it helps your focus!). If you want to race, go on a track day or better still, try the California Superbike School.

Finally - and this is the best bit - enjoy the freedom and companionship that biking (or scootering) offers.

Have fun!

Geoff