Motor-cross using scooters has been a hit in Taiwan and Italy for nearly two decades.
However, only since the establishment of the Super Scooter Motorcross Club in 1997 did this leisure activity become known by more Hong Kong people.
Mr. Amos Wong, 28, is a member of the Club. Being a motorcyclist, he has participated in some formal motor-crosses as an amateur.
He explained the reasons for participating in this burgeoning activity: "Scooters are smaller in size and riders feel safer to ride on them."
Before riding on the race lane, he attended a course offered by the
Club.
Mr. Wong said: "The courses taught us skills to control scooters on rugged and muddy roads. We learnt how to protect ourselves.
"Precautions against accidents and drivers' rules were also introduced.
"Though I already knew how to ride motorcycles, riding scooter is completely different. Thus, those courses equipped me with all the fundamental know-how," said Mr. Wong.
There are three consecutive levels of courses offered, including
theories, practical exercises and finally, showy movements like jumping off a scooter and
turning around.
Although the speed is usually as low as 30 to 40 kilometers per hour, scooter riders can derive a lot of excitement from riding on rugged, winding roads with S-curves and slopes.
One of the founders and instructors of the Club, Mr. Philip Chan, is an enthusiast in motor-cross. However, when he was determined to open a business of his own, the first thing that came into his mind was scooter-riding.
Said he: "Compared to motorcycles, scooters are easier to control. Thus, they have a better prospect of becoming popular.
"Scooter motor-cross trains riders to think independently as they
can depend on nobody but themselves.
"Endurance can also be enhanced as a rider has to work extremely hard to become the champion. Whether it is loss or victory is in their hands."
In order to become a veteran, huge efforts are required. However, it is not at all difficult to grasp the basic skills.
"In general, people who can keep balance learn how to ride a
scooter in less than half an hour.
"As scooters are automatic, riders only have to maintain their balance and use their hands to control the accelerator," he said.
"Scooters are as docile as sheep. They are suitable for people of every age to ride," he said.
A dozen of children, aged from 6 to 13, joined the children's scooter motor-cross held in January.
"They were brave and staunch. They did not give up even if they fell down from the scooters during the race," he said.
Mr. Chan gained the greatest satisfaction when he saw children trainees progress from layman to skilful and confident riders.
In contrast, there are some adult members who do not try
wholeheartedly.
"They are holding a rash attitude towards the activity and seldom listen to what the instructors say.
Mr. Wong said: "Though it is very hot and I sweat a lot in summer, I do not think it is harsh. Instead, I regard it as a valuable training.
"I have few other entertainments. I enjoy the time riding with friends who share the same aspiration and interest with me," Mr. Wong said.
"It is a good chance to enjoy the peace and beauty of the natural environment when riding in the countryside.
"It is comfortable as I can be freed from the daily working pressure," Mr. Wong said.
According to Mr. Chan, there were few accidents and most of the injuries that occurred were light.
No matter how safe the activity is, dangers still exist. Therefore, the Club offers protective equipment, including helmets, gloves, kneepads and armor and rents them to its members.
Although he is a veteran in motor-cross, Mr. Wong still wears a full set of protective equipment when he rides, as he believes that safety should always be given the top priority.
Said he: "It is important to protect our heads, hands and legs. Thus, I would always ensure that I am riding in a safe condition. With such preparations, I can be fully confident when riding."
Scooter motor-cross is an all-year-round activity. It can be held even if the ground is wet with light rain. While in dry seasons, sprinklers will be used to reduce dust and sand flying around. Although the activity requires a lot of physical strength, females are equally welcomed.
The proportion of females to male members attending courses is usually 1 to 1. Sometimes, the former even outnumbers the latter.
"Apart from the fact that female members are usually more obedient and attentive, there is no difference between the two genders," said Mr. Chan.
