[heynowheynow]

Good luck, naïve foreigner: I don't think you realize or appreciate how violent and unsafe most of Oakland is. You're likely to be robbed at gun- or knife-point by multiple assailants. At least in some other states you're allowed to defend your own life, but not in California.

#12 https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/the-most-dangerous-cities-i...

I have a 4kW standing scooter that I use in another city that goes 50 mph easily. The concept of a power limit is nanny state government control: to hell with that. Scooters have no power restrictions and no limits. I wouldn't take one out on a highway, but anything short of that is fine.

Statistically, helmet wearing in the US encourages drivers to pass wearers at an unsafe distance (too close). They also provide a false sense of security and look stupid. If they were useful, the Dutch would be all over them. Experienced riders with coordination in good urban planning areas don't need them.

[TaylorAlexander]

You could have worded this with kind concern but you chose to open by insulting me instead. I only moved here from the other side of the bay. I’ve lived in this area my whole life. Somehow all my friends in Oakland do just fine. If I get robbed, so be it, but I’m not going to hide in my car.

I’ve been a cyclist my whole life and I would never ride without a helmet. This isn’t the Netherlands. My bike goes 30 MPH and as experienced as I am, accidents still happen.

Your comment was particularly condescending and I don’t think it fits the tone of this discussion. You didn’t have to comment, and you didn’t have to be rude if you wanted to participate.

[mongol]

I am not parent but I agree with you. Thanks for sharing your e-bike conversion experience. It made me look into the same!

[dm319]

Don't bother with a bike helmet! The only safety you need on your bike is the safety of your open carry firearm. When a careless driver pulls out of a side road and takes you out, you can both make them regret their decision and pay for your neurosurgery with a gun.

/s (sadly needed)

[djmips]

Hey, they were trying to help. ;-) Clearly just a culture clash.

[esperent]

> culture clash

You'll probably experience less of these if you stop calling people "naive foreigners".

[heynowheynow]

Millennial... zzz...