Herald staff
Motorized scooters are the latest fad. You can stand or buy a kit to allow you to sit down. Here are some facts about the scooters:
Cost: Start about $500.
Power: Gas engines are most popular, but 24-volt battery-operated scooters are also available.
Speed: Varies with the machine. Some internal combustion machines are advertised to travel up to 25 miles per hour. Rechargeable battery machines often travel less than 15 mph.
The experts advise riders to wear helmets and other safety gear.
Most are made for road travel, although there are some with bigger wheels built for off-road use.
Washington State Patrol says they are illegal on streets and sidewalks, meaning the only place to ride one is on private property with permission.