Tips for Renting A Scooter for First Timers

Renting a scooter or motorbike for the first time is exciting, and it will be one of the best times you have had in a long time. It doesn't matter what age you are; everyone loves using these two-wheeled vehicles to get around because they are so easy to use. They don't require any experience behind the wheel and can be just as fun as driving a car.

Unfortunately, not everyone who decides that they are up for renting a scooter or motorbike is equipped with the necessary experience or knowledge. This is not necessarily a bad thing. Everyone has to learn somehow. Read this article to get a few tips for renting scooters or motorbikes for the first time.

Before renting a scooter or motorbike

You should keep a few things in mind before renting a scooter or motorbike for the first time. Here are some tips to get you started:

Make sure you have a valid driver's license. You cannot rent a scooter or motorcycle unless you have a valid driver's license. Also, travel insurers won’t payout if you have an accident but don’t have a license.
Choose the right vehicle for your needs. There are many different types of scooters and motorbikes available for rent. Make sure to get a bike based on your ability rather than your ambition.
Renting should not be based solely on price. The cheapest bikes are usually older and, in some cases, less roadworthy.
It is vital to inspect the motorbike. You should check the tires, brake pads, and battery. Make sure that everything is working correctly. Also, make sure that there are no technical problems with the motorbike.
Before renting a scooter or motorbike, you should familiarise yourself with the legal and insurance requirements. You should ask some questions about the rental process and ensure that everything is clear and easy for you.
Ensure a mechanic has checked the scooter or motorcycle before renting it out.
ATTGATT – All The Gear All The Time. In a crash, protective gear will help to reduce injuries.

Once you are on the road

Assuming you have never ridden a motorcycle or scooter before, here are some tips to help you enjoy your rental experience.

Know your route. Before setting off your rental scooter or motorbike, map your route and familiarize yourself with the area. A GPS device is handy for navigating unfamiliar roads but do not rely on it if you go off-road – these machines have limited range. They may not be able to locate your destination after several miles.
Be aware of the rules of the road. When operating a scooter or motorbike, you must be mindful of all the road rules, just as you would when driving a car. This includes adhering to speed limits, yield signs, and traffic signals.
Maintain constant awareness of your surroundings and drive defensively. Motorcycles and scooters are much smaller than cars and can be easily overlooked by other drivers. Constantly scan the road for hazards such as approaching traffic, pedestrians, animals, and so on.
Alcohol and motorbikes don’t mix.
Cover your brakes. Be ready to stop.
When riding a scooter or motorbike in traffic, drop a gear. If you need to speed up, you will be ready.
After each turn, make sure your indicators are turned off.
Check the road surface. Oil, diesel, debris, potholes, ice, water, etc
Don’t get yourself between vehicles and exit ramps. Move into a position to avoid cars that change lanes at the last minute.
Own your lane. Ride in a position where other drivers won't try to squeeze you out.
Make your presence known. Put on light-colored clothing. Turn on your headlights if it is legal.
Avoid getting in between vehicles and exit ramps. Position yourself to avoid cars that change lanes at the last minute.
When approaching a corner, select the appropriate gear, come wide to allow for a clear line of sight, and turn sharper as you approach the apex to avoid oncoming traffic that may be cutting the corner.

We hope our tips for renting a scooter or motorbike for first-timers have been helpful! Don't be afraid to travel the world on two wheels. It could become the most fantastic adventure you have ever undertaken.