Go-Ped
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Go-Ped is a brand of motorized scooter manufactured by Patmont Motor Werks. In many areas in the United States they are not street legal. Before you ride, you will need to check with your regional and local vehicle code. A particular area may also have ordinances that limit the use of scooters. The top speed of the average Go-Ped is around 20 to 30 miles per hour. Go-Peds are relatively safe, aside of their quick turning radius. There is usually quite a lot of noise associated with them. Their extremely low operation cost and high fuel economy makes them ideal for people with broken commutes in urban areas. Riding a Go-Ped puts you at a less vulnerable position than riding a bike, as they are much easier to bail off of if need be. Keep in mind, a scooter needs more frequent attention than a car. The time to find out if there is something that needs attention is before you ride.
For over a decade, the International Go-Ped® Association (IGPA) has built a trustworthy reputation as a sponsor of quality Go-Ped® racing. It all started with Ron Fortenbury in Omaha, Nebraska. In response to human nature – “anything on wheels must be raced!” – Ron began hosting Go-Ped® races for his “Ron's Rad Toys” customers in Omaha.
In January 2002, the IGPA became officially incorporated with Ron Fortenbury becoming Vice Chairman of the Board, and National Race Director. Additionally, a dedicated team of scooter enthusiasts and professionals were brought together to serve on the Board of Directors.
Since then Go-Peds have continued to spread world wide.
Gopeds (types);
There are many types of gopeds. These range from racing to offroad to recreational riding peds. Many of these have different horsepower levels, motors and gas/oil ratio levels. Some of these gopeds are named by their eninge type such as the GSR40, the big brother of the smaller Bigfoot goped which has bigger tires for off road riding. Recreational peds such as the Sport goped have smaller wheels for road riding.
Riding (types);
Stunts, Wheelies, or Jumps: Most (if not all) moves performed on Go-Ped scooters are carried over from skateboard and BMX riding. The additional force of application in specific moves can put undue stress on the scooter and it's parts. Needless to say a very big aftermarket exists for these products, and all issues relating to additional stress are easily corrected.
Wet Weather Riding: Go-Ped scooters traditionally used a direct drive system (spindle drive). This means the engine shaft was in direct contact with the tire. Newer models feature chain drive which does not suffer traction loss in wet conditions. Riding in wet conditions requires a heightened sense of awareness.
Usage Warnings: Unlike other forms of traditional transport (non power) the addition of a 2 stroke engine removes most of your ability to hear oncoming traffic based movement. Due to this, riding on public property is only permitted in certain areas, under certain conditions. A helmet, full finger gloves and elbow/knee pads should be warn at all times during use.