Goodbye Jeep Commander, hello 110 miles per gallon Yamaha C3 Scooter. I watched a co-worker ride his scooter for two years and ever since I first laid eyes on it, I wanted one. It took some time, but, finally, in January of 2009, I purchased my scooter. And let me tell you, it’s definitely on my “top ten list” of best purchases, hands down.
Jesus Salguiero gets ready to ride his gas saving, two-wheeled daily driver.
I never realized how much I would absolutely love it. I’ll be honest, at first I was scared to even own something that is classified as a motorcycle, seeing as how I never rode a motorized two-wheel vehicle before I went out and actually bought the scooter (Not recommended by the way, you should definitely ride one first – they aren’t for everyone). It was something of a leap of faith to make a commitment and use the scooter as my everyday vehicle, just ask my wife. But, I did my research, and found out being under 50 cubic centimeters didn’t require a license or insurance. That was all I needed to know. Later that afternoon, I was at the dealership making my purchase.
My friends ask me, “Why?” at least once a week. Really, there were many reasons behind my purchase. First, it gives me the opportunity to make my commute shorter, and avoid nearly all traffic by opening up alternate routes to work. The other big factor was just how much gas I could squeeze out of that efficient little engine – 110mpg. Let me say that again just so we’re clear: 110 miles per gallon. I fill up 1.2 gallons every two weeks and that’s all. Seriously. I spend around $6.00 per month on gas just on the scooter alone. Jealous? I fill up two gas tanks I have at home once every three months at the gas station so I don’t have to drive to the gas station to fill my tank, which, by the way, takes about 60 seconds from start to finish. My new commute to work is 3.1 miles, averaging around in six minutes and 30 seconds. I don’t take any major roads except when I go to Waterford Lakes and I’m on SR 50 for a few minutes. Other than that, I’ve found back roads to get to wherever I need.
But, it was more than just about saving money. Another reason was being environmentally friendly; you can’t believe how much one pollutes the environment with cars. Now, I’m no “tree hugger,” but I do care and it feels surprisingly good to do something so eco-friendly. I don’t know the stats to how much energy I’m actually saving, but not having to use as much gas, producing less carbon dioxide and even lowering the amount of maintenance is a winner in my book and the environments.
The last reason is my personal favorite. I enjoy being outside in the open. It’s very refreshing to have the wind hit you in the face and have the open road surround you. It’s peaceful, and even with all the normal safety riding gear, it’s pretty comfortable. I can relate to why people have motorcycles (not that my top speed of 42 miles per hour is nearly as fast as a motorcycle, but I said I can relate).
Ever since I got my scooter it has been really fun to drive to work. That’s right – I enjoy my commute. How many of us can say that? It’s been great to zip around town in a small, simple transportation tool. My favorite question I always get asked is, “What are you going to do when it rains?” My answer? “Get a little wet!”
My advice if you do decide to invest in a scooter or two-wheeled vehicle is this: be prepared for what you’re getting yourself into and always wear the proper safety gear. It’s a lot of fun out there, but it’s a whole new world when you don’t have any doors.
Article by Jesus Salgueiro
