the "scootering dream" vs reality

I love using my scooter, be it for a trip to the shops or just an afternoon ride to the sunset; however one thing is certain in my mind: I have to pay attention.

Scooters (and the idea) are sold to people as some sort of dreamy fantasy

beautiful bright future city-scapes and people dressed neatly and smiling, no crowds on sunny days ... its idylic, even pretty chicks can do it looking fashionable and hot.

The reality however is usually obscure obstacles that didn't stand out to your untrained eye

but when you get down to wheel level and look will be sufficient to off you with your itty bitty wheels ...

when you hit them without looking and going fast (see this post). 

Often they can be hidden under leaves or small debris:

so the rule is: if you can't see it suspect it.

Hitting small (you thought) insignificant obstacles which in combination with the itty bitty wheels of scooters your daydream ride may turn in to this

even at speeds that (if you've only been in cars) seem not fast ... the reality is however even a basic scooter goes faster than you can run and if you trip while running full speed you'll also risk injuries like the above.

Scooters should be ridden by a rider that respects these facts, because scooters can be dangerous, especially when going fast.

Remember, the only thing that really matters in safety is YOU. Scoot so that you can scoot again tomorrow and enjoy the future days

not so that you spend the rest of your life coping with injuries.