No fun to have things run you over — especially neurologic ones. You’re right of course about bike size and riding slowly. It’s ultimately a decision and not anything intrinsic to the machine. As I get older the weight of what I’m riding becomes more and more important. Not that I could ride something heavier, but I like the lighter machine when I have to push it out of mud or snow…

A good rider can ride a fast bike slowly, and comfortably, if he chooses. I took the MSF Experienced Rider Course on a 650cc Kawasaki Twin fairly easily. The course included doing figure eights in “The Box”, a twenty by forty foot enclosure, several times. In my MUCH younger days I won a Field Event with a 600 pound machine. I’m not that nimble anymore as old age and neurological issues has run me over.

http://twowheeler.yolasite.com/index/the-trophy

Riding a GTS300 on the freeway at 70mph may not leave you with extra power to speed away from things but it does leave a remarkable level of maneuverability to dodge, evade and avoid trouble. Power is only one tool.

When I ride on Interstate 99 the traffic is often moving at speeds between 70 and 80 miles per hour. I cruise at 65 and don’t have trouble and regularly pass vehicles going slower. I’ve been on motorcycles at similar speeds with the ability to rocket to 100mph but that has never been a concern anymore than it is when I’m driving my little Honda Fit. What does concern me is how fast can I react, how fast can I stop, and how skilled will I be when I need to evade something.

For many, avoiding the freeway will be their first choice. I do. But not because I don’t belong there on the scooter or feel unsafe. I avoid it because it’s just such a bore…

I always thought you were hard on those rigs Dom!

I agree — the GTS is swift. And quick. And nimble. You’re right about big machines and slow speeds — they can be a handful. Twenty-five miles per hour isn’t bad but drop below ten or five and do some manuevering — yikes. Definitely requires skill.

You’ve summed up the Vespa well.

“…moved my edges…” YEP.

I don’t get to urban areas as much as I used to. And seldom on two wheels. But I can appreciate the special challenges of traffic and speed and the need to utilize freeways to get where you want to be. My own experience is rather guarded and simple. All part of the luck of the draw we each find ourselves in.

I’ve not warmed to speed like many have. Even when I was young I had an aversion to going fast and not because I wanted to see things.

Anyways, thanks for sharing your experience with miles and riding.

You’ve painted the near perfect picture of what riding can offer. When it’s working, it is a lush, rich experience that leaves smiles and contentment in it’s wake. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences.

220,000 miles over thirty two years of living. What a gift…

One thing I’ve learned over the years is there is no “right” scooter or motorcycle and no “right” way to ride. We all have our unique desires, needs and abilities to sort out and find what works. Not everyone learns or sorts in the same way so you can see a real range of experiences.