#35: Observations From Scootering Around Taipei.

Before Taipei, I had never ridden a motorbike before. In the past two years since I started riding around, I've come to learn a few things...

• Yes, that gap is absolutely wide enough.


• Rain, is an absolute bastard.


• When riding in said-rain plus freezing conditions, the exhaust fumes of the bus/truck in front are a precious source of heat and warmth. Plus a great exercise in lung capacity.


• Don't be fooled by that car who just indicated right, he's not going anywhere.


• Don't be fooled by that car who's not indicating anything, he's either turning left, right, or just stopping in the middle of the damn road.


• The average 125cc scooter, with its ability to simultaneously carry a family of five, the weekly groceries and the family dog, has just as much capacity as any standard full size people carrier, and with more headroom too.


• There are no speed limits, only speed suggestions.


• The baseball cap is only considered adequate head protection when used in conjunction with a plastic hard hat. Using either one by themselves is just plain dangerous.


• When riding behind a local, watch out for flying cigarette butts.


• When riding behind a coach, watch out for flying wing mirrors.