I promised a multitude of people at Trans-Sylvania, “If I finish top 5, I’m using the prize money to buy my friend’s scooter.” I’m a woman of my word, and, as of last week, I am now the ecstatic owner of a 50cc Yamaha Vino.

It has a top speed of about 42 mph (downhill, with a tailwind), and sounds a lot like a leafblower. I’ve put at least 300 miles on it since then, because it’s incredibly fun to drive, so I take the “scenic route” wherever I go. Sunday afternoon, I went to the grocery store that’s about a mile from the house, and somehow ended up here- about 15 miles in the opposite direction…

I basically go everywhere on the scooter as long as it’s not raining or I don’t have to carry something large with me (like a bike, unfortunately). I have quickly figured out the art of packing the trunk and bungee cording stuff to the rack, though.

Just prior to that last photo being taken, my dad had rallied the scooter around the pasture behind his house. Without a helmet. Speaking of, I’ve taken this opportunity to add to my helmet collection with a POC full face. I figured that at the relatively low speeds of the scooter, it offers plenty of protection, and, though it’s not a “cute” little brainbucket that a lot of people wear, it’ll keep my face cute if I ever wreck. Bonus- I can wear it if/when I go downhilling again on a bike.

(bonus kitty in the helmet shipping box)

I can definitely say that I’m enjoying it as much as I expected. I’ve found that since I’ve spent many hours on a road bike that I’m habitually looking out for drivers who don’t see me. It’s saved me once so far. It’ll only be a matter of time before the weekend motorpacing starts.