Here are a few things you might need to know about riding in Boston:

Riding in Boston is great. Because Boston isn't laid out on a rigid grid systems like other cities, there are great curves no matter what street you're on, however getting around isn't entirely intuitive. Thankfully Boston is a compact city and no matter how lost you get, you're only 15 minutes from where you want to be. Peering at the various maps available on the directions page will give you a leg up on the competition.

If curving roads that change names at will isn't confusing enough, Boston is also littered with rotaries, or roundabouts. Massachusetts law states that those in the rotary have the right of way, and those entering must yeild. However the real law is that cars are bigger than scooters, and even if you have the right-of-way, be careful!

Oh and speaking of yeilding, in Boston you will share many roads with trollies. Obviously they have the right-of-way and you should get out of their way. Ask Betty, they'll hit you. While avoiding the trains is easy, avoiding the tracks is impossible. So keep an eye on the road and cross tracks at right angles when possible.

Both helmets and eyewear are required when riding in Massachusetts, if you don't wear 'em, the cops will come down on you. Passengers must follow the same laws.

In Mass, any bike smaller than 49cc, and with a max speed of less than 30mph, is considered a moped or motorized bicycle. As such you can park in bike racks, and ride in the bike lanes. Insurance and helmet are still required. More information is available on the RMV website.

Beer & liquor can generally only be purchased at liquor stores in Boston and they close at 11pm, so plan accordingly. The legal Blood Alcohol Content in Mass is .08. Don't risk it by driving drunk, catch a ride, hop a cheap cab, or take advantage of our excellent public transport system.

Boston is a farely safe city, but like other large cities, there is always the possibility for crime. If you keep your head up, and lock your bike well (we suggest the Beast Chain from OnGuard) you'll be fine. Unless you're driving a Lotus, your car wont be in any danger.

Parking in Boston is a bitch. Parking on the sidewalk is illegal for any 50cc or greater bike. The risk of a ticket is minimal but still there, so make your own call there. Parking your car, truck, or trailer is tougher. The HoJo charges $10, the lot across the street is $12/spot for the full weekend, or you can take your chances elsewhere. However, this will be painful as most of Boston is divided into neighborhood parking areas which require stickers to park. There is free on-street parking available about town (on Cambridge Street near both Thursday and Saturday night's event for instance), but you should probably talk to a local to iron things out.