ScooteringUSA

In 2008, scooter sales rose considerably, breaking records along the way. Gas prices did the same thing across the United States. The two were obviously related occurrences. Now, with gas prices back down to more “livable” levels, scooter sales have also fallen. In the first three months of 2009, sales of scooters have fallen by 37 percent off last year’s numbers.

Last year, dealerships just could not keep the vehicles in stock while this year they are hunting for buyers.  222,000 scooters were sold in 2008. That was up by about 40 percent over 2007 numbers. That one year thrill ride was nice while it lasted, but trade groups are still working to educate people on why scooters should still be top of the mind.

Piaggio USA is trying to get the buzz going about Vespa and Piaggio scooters, both of which it owns. They are doing so through several programs, including Amerivespa. This event is a yearly gathering of those who adore the Vespa line. This particular event is happening in Los Gatos, California.

Another way the company is trying to push its brand and image is through its new buying program which allows Vespa and Piaggio buyers to purchase as if they were leasing the scooters. The program allows you to have a “12 Month Test Ride” of the Vespa. If you do not love your Vespa after that period of time, the company will buy it back. This program is only geared towards new scooters. Now is the time to think Piaggio USA if you are in the market.

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Postie Bike Challenge

If riding across a continent on a motorcycle has always been a dream of yours, consider registering for the Australian Postie Bike Challenge. This event is a 10 day ride across Australia from Brisbane to Melbourne (October 3 through 13, 2009) and is also a fund raiser for several different charities that are met along the route. This event is unique in that it is not a tour or a rally, it is a ride challenge.

For just under $5,000 AUD participants are supplied with a Honda CT110 “Postie” to ride, fuel, meals, support truck and crew that follow you on your 3,000 to 4,000 mile journey across the Outback. You supply your own safety clothing, helmet, camping gear and personal items that must fit into the supplied duffle bag. You can travel solo or in packs, ride fast or slow. You choose. This sounds like a truly life-changing experience. For lots more info go to: postiebikechallenge.org

Xootr Cruz Ultra

The classic styling of the Xootr Cruz Ultra looks old school, but it really is a modern, ultra- efficient kick scooter. The 9 ply Baltic Birch deck sits atop the machined aluminum rails, and is definitely built to last. The deck actually starts to look even more awesome as it wears and patinas.

It has all the fun and flexibility of a skateboard but with added steering and comfort. The Cruz comes standard with ultra-glide polyurethane tires and a new ergo pin. Made in U.S.A. Retails for around $199.00

Wiley X SG-1 Goggles

Wiley X Eyewear keeps your eyes protected yet doesn’t sacrifice good-looks for protection. When you are cruising around town on your bike or scooter, you have to share the outdoors with bright sun, dust, debris, wind, and pollen which can irritate and even damage your eyes. And yet, you still need to look cool when climbing off your bike. Grab a pair of these Wiley X SG-1 low profile goggles.

They have shatterproof lenses, controlled ventilation system along with an anti-fog coating to keep goggles fog free as well as a streamlined design and dual pivot strap that provides comfort over or under any helmet configuration. The low profile design is night vision compatible and features Spheric lens technology providing pure optical clarity in all viewable area’s. Meets both ANSI Z87.1-2003 high velocity protection and has 100% UV Protection.

If you think restoration is only coined towards old cars, you can now add Vespas and Lambrettas to that mix. There is one store that now specializes in restoring these vintage scooters and this is Fada Scooter in Bellevue Square Park. Among the highlighted scooters you may be asked to ride around would be their e-bike which costs a lot cheaper than the new ones in the market.

For people who want a cheap scooter, this is the place to be. They have a showroom floor packed with mid-century scooters, including a 1956 model that’s in mint condition, having spent the last chapter of its life as a piece of loft decor.

No license or insurance required to hop on the retro-styled e-Fada, $1,699; a 1963 vintage Vespa comes in classic hospital green, $4,500; Corazzo’s zip-up jacket keeps you safe with reflective tape and armoured plates, $239 on sale.

(Source) Now Toronto

A change in weight restrictions concerning small scooters may yet bring up another potential debate on how youngsters are permitted to drive around scooters in Calgary. Of course, the young kids aged 14 and above will applaud the development. However, are they ready to be riding around in scooters in the roads at their age?

The fact of safety comes into mind. Scooter accidents are occurring and headlining the news lately and at such young ages, should they be exposed to such risks?

“Who at the age of 14 has the sense to know the ultimate consequence of their actions when they’re out there driving?Some will say’my son(does)’ or ‘my daughter (does)’ and they’re probably correct. But the majority of 14 year olds do not have . . . the reasoning ability to know those consequences. We’re seeing it day in and day out on our roads here. The risk is much, much higher in our youngest age group,” said Billings.

It is a matter of either allowing or looking out for the safety of young scooter riders. For parents, expect some hesitations but as far as scooter dealers and the teens, expect them to be thrilled. So which comes first? Safety or leisure? Of the two, it seems safety is the logical choice but then again, debates are expected to surround this issue.

(Source) Calgary Herald

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Vespa GTS 300 Super

New York-based photographer Clay Enos is starting out on a 4,500 mile journey on July 2 beginning in Manhatten. Enos is hitting America’s backroads on a black Vespa GTS 300 Super while he searches out some of the country’s dedicated local food growers and producers. Armed only with his Nikon, Vespa, Apple iPhone and time. By the time he reaches Vancouver, British Columbia, he plans to have documented new experiences and discoveries.

He will also share his photography skills at select Apple stores along the way and he’ll visit Vespa retailers, such as Vespa Seattle and Chicago Motoworks to reveal what he’s learned along his route. To learn more about Clay Enos, his Vespa GTS 300 Super and his journey, visit www.vespausa.com for daily update on Clay’s adventures. You can also follow Clay on Twitter @clayenos.