Alternatives.....
If you have a second car - do you really need it? If your partner is working and you have school runs and your own business to persue, you probably do.
But if the second car is mainly parked in the Garage, used just to pop down down the shops, visit the Dentist or run small errands, maybe an alternative can be considered.
Even if you have only one car, but the kids have left home, there's a good Public Transport system and you have an easy commute consider,
"Do I really need that car?".
If you're just doing a small amount of driving to places which may be just a little too far to walk, think of the money you are spending to keep that car going. Probably second hand needing an MOT every year, the insurance, the Road Tax and the devaluation.
Why not consider a Moped. If you get a 50cc model, you can use your existing full car driving licence (if issued before 2001) without passing any tests and the Road Tax will cost just £15 per year (at time of writing in August 2006).
A 50cc Moped will journey approimately 100 miles plus to a gallon of Petrol, that's 4.54 litres.
Naturally, with 50cc, you're not going to burn tarmac and most of these models have a European restriction of 30mph. The maunfacturer sets the machine up so that is the maximum speed.
Over 50cc you will be required to take a Compulsory Basic Training test (CBT).
For full licence holders before 2001, this isn't necessary, but recommended - you can buy the moped and drive away.
For Licience Holders after 2001, the CBT will be compulsory and it would be illegial for you to ride it on the road, even with 'L' plates.
Chinese mopeds are becoming very popular. You can buy a brand new 50cc model for as little as £400 nowadays, which means you're on the road for less than £500 with no MOT for 3 years!.
For essential accessories such as Helmets etc., search the Internet. You can find them brand new on auction sites from about £25 - just make sure they conform to the European ECER2205 Standard.
Other advantages of having a Moped are that most Town Centre Car Parks don't charge you to park, it's far easier to make those 'door to door' journeys and you're not throwing too much horrible stuff into the atmosphere.
Obviously, safety is an issue and you should be sure of your own confidence and wear suitable clothing. Maybe not altogether fashionable, but High Vis Jackets and over trousers are excellant for the dark and will keep you dry as well.
The Moped or Motor Scooter
NEVER
COMPROMISE
SAFETY
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Some words of wisdom from her Majestys Government about motorbike safety and some proposals
Cost effectiveness, saving money, reducing expenditure in the home and at play
