*** Motorized scooters governed by state laws ***

NORTH COUNTY, CA (AP) ---- 07/25/2004
With abounding styles, speeds and specialties, "motorized scooters"
have come a long way from a basic board, handlebars and a motor.

With so many versions, where and how the motorized scooters can
be used gets confusing, and officers say riders are often unaware of
their vehicle's restrictions.

Here is a look at the four basic types of motorized
scooters sold by dealers and the rules that apply to them.

A small motorized scooter has two wheels, a flat board,
handlebars and a small motor; accessories are optional,
dealers said.

"They're fun little things," said Mike Laub, a North County Yamaha
salesman who has tested the toys out of few times, "You use them
camping, along the beach or to run to the market."

Common brands include Go-Peds,
Blatino Scooters and Motorboard.

But while many enjoy the scooters' convenience and kids savor
its liberation, the state vehicle code requires riders to be at least
16 years old ---- something most parents don't realize, said
California Highway Patrol officer Tom Kerns.

"You see 8-year-olds riding around on these things
without helmets," Kerns added. "It's very dangerous."

If old enough, riders don't need a license to operate the scooters,
but officers say they can't mosey along just anywhere.

Scooters are prohibited from cruising above 15 mph and must be
ridden in a bicycle lane. If the road doesn't have a bicycle lane, they
are allowed only in areas with a speed limit 25 mph or under
---- like a residential area, Kerns said.

He added that scooters must never be ridden on sidewalks and
must be "street legal" with brakes and headlights or reflectors.
Riders must wear helmets.

A rider looking to travel outside the bike lane and above 15 mph
on roadways, can drive a "motor-driven cycle" on roadways
---- not freeways. The cycle must have an engine smaller than
150 cubic centimeters and the driver must have a motorcycle
license and registration.

These cycles aren't to be confused with miniature motorcycles,
often called "pocket bikes" or "crotch rockets." While adrenaline
junkies often jump miniature motorcycles off-road, Kerns said the
bikes are illegal on all public property because they aren't equipped
for the licensing identification.

A moped, which comes with or without pedals, is often considered
a scooter. It cannot be ridden above 30 mph and riders must have
a motorcycle license and registration, said Cliston Hensley, San
Marcos police traffic sergeant. They can't occupy a bicycle lane
and riders must wear a helmet. Their low speeds prevent freeway use.

Then there are larger scooters that can reach speeds up to 100 mph.
Such vehicles have become more than just a recreational toy for some,
said Jim Knapp, Escondido Cycle Center sales manager.

"People figure with gas prices the way they are, it's a great way to
save money," said Knapp, who said he has sold about five scooters
in the last month to commuters.

However if the engine size is larger than 150 cubic centimeters,
the minimum for freeway use, the scooter is considered a motorcycle
under the state vehicle code. Even if the engine is big enough, riders
should check to see whether their model can keep up freeway speeds
before taking it on the highway. Drivers must have a motorcycle license
and registration if they do.

Despite the restrictions, many children said
the scooters are just too "fun" to pass up.

San Marcos resident Morgan Carter, 10, said her foot-propelled
scooter is fine for now, but she said she couldn't wait until she could
hop on one with a motor.

"They go so much faster," said Carter, as she played at the
San Marcos Boys & Girls Club, "But I guess I'll just have to wait."

If residents are unsure of their vehicle regulations, officers said
it is best to check with authorities. Riders can check out the
state vehicle code at http://www.dmv.ca.gov

Geneb...Wenatchee,Washington-USA
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