Combo Bike/gas Scooter to replace auto
 

Hello everyone.

I'm happy to say that I'm going to be taking a new job that will quite likely eliminate 95% of my need for a car. I want to start commuting by bike only.

Except that other 5% of the time... I need to condition myself for long bikerides b/c I'm still a noob. Once a week I need to go a distance of about 19 miles one way. I was thinking that I would mooch a vehicle from a friend once a week... but that's not really my goal. My goal is to ditch my car but still be able to independently keep all my committments (more or less).

So I keep coming back to the idea of a 49cc scooter. I've wanted one for a long time, and am glad I became convinced that I should try bicycle first. (Also, you can't take a gas powered scooter on the train in my city, only a bicycle).

So have any of you used a moped/small engine scooter to complement your bicycling, even if it was just for a year or so while you were beginning? I really love the idea of relieving myself of the car.... but I know I'm not fit enough yet for a 40 mile round trip bike ride once a week.

Also, I have not sold my car yet so it is still currently part of my transportation options until further notice.

Thanks!
Jessica

19 miles? Just ride man, just ride.. my regular commute is 15 miles one way, 30 round trip, and comparatively to you.. I am ooooooolllllldddddddd. Doesn't take long at all to get your legs ready for 20 miles one way.

Actually thinking the same. On occasion I need to take a longer ride than I want on the bike. Alot of hills around here so just taking the bike is easier said than done. My wife has her ride and we also have the RV for backups. She could also use it to ride around town. The problem is my car is long paid for it and still running ok. Insurance and registration is minimal for my car so would take 5 years to even break even buying even the cheapest 50cc. If that doesn't apply to you and can figure out the winter situation I'd say go for it. You could always rent a car/truck if needed.

I'm sympathetic. How much do you need to carry on your 19 mile trip, and what time would it be? Cycling might not be a reasonable answer. Have you looked into Uber or the bus? It takes a lot of bus fares to add up to a scooter.

An E-Bike with pedal assist is the answer you seek. And HTFU, you'll get there. My commute is 18 miles one way, 2-6 trips per week. take about 1 hour 20 minutes. Car take an hour. Another answer. Try multi modal. Take bus/train some of the way. Carry folding bike and pedal the connections.