Learning to ride a moped/scooter in Raleigh? (Charlotte, Ocracoke: neighborhood, buy)

[Grawburg]

So I want to by a scooter - less than 50cc - to ride around a do errands with. But I've never ridden one. I know how to ride a bike, but is a scooter difficult to learn?

Are there any moped schools or classes around town???

[laexchange]

No, its fairly easy,

Just remember to let other cars pass you since you are slower

[Grawburg]

I was also suprised that the NCDOT website doesn't list any road that I *can't* be on. Not sure if I want to take that thing on the beltline though.

[SunnyKayak]

Be careful if you get one
I do get 100 miles a gallon on gas

See if the dealer will let you test ride to see if you are comfortable having one.
It can be loads of fun and it feels great with the beautiful weather.
I buy my helmets from jafrum helmets it located in Charlotte but they ship quick and do exchanges make sure the helmet is dot certified
Plus are alot cheaper than retail


Once you do get one dont go to the store right then, practice on neighborhood streets with low traffic til you get confortable.
Ride around a cul de sac so you can practice leaning. Something you will need to know to make turns.

Try to avoid wet pavement, your tires will be really slick.
Try to avoid roads that are 45 mph or higher and always ride the white line or cars will be impatient.
Dont ride on highways it is against the law.

I took mine to the outer banks and rode from Avon to Ocracoke and it was a blast.

Have fun

[jeffs555]

Although it is aimed at licensed motorcycles and scooters, I would suggest you take the Motorcycle Safety Foundation course. It will certainly improve your safety and confidence even on an unlicensed scooter. It is offered through the community college system here in NC(ie Wake Tech). They provide the motorcycles.
BRC

An added advantage is that after passing the course you can get a motorcycle endorsement on your license just by taking the written test from DMV. Who knows, you may decide you want to go faster and get a licensed scooter or motorcycle.