WITH the cost of motoring going through the roof, many car drivers are starting to consider the practical alternatives to sitting behind a wheel.

The cost of keeping a car on the road these days is punitive with recent sharp increases in fuel prices at the pumps as well as hikes in vehicle excise duty.

Although fuel prices are now falling, the costs of running a car are still very expensive.

Many people are finding that a cheaper and more practical alternative to driving is riding and in many cases that means trading the comforts of a car for the excitement and thrill of riding a modern scooter or motorbike.

It is over 40 years since the scooter and motorcycle were as popular as they are now.

Then, the 'Mods and Rockers' craze of the 1960s fuelled the demand for Vespas, Lambrettas, BSAs and Nortons, four of the limited manufacturers available at the time.

This time around, however, the choice is seemingly endless with new Japanese, American, European and Asian models each vying for the buyer's attention.

All, however, share one thing in common – fuel efficiency. With up to 60mpg available on certain models, scooters and motorcycles are proving a remarkably cost effective way to travel around especially in our congested cities and with the current rapidly rising fuel prices.

Parking is another area where the two-wheeled option scores over its four-wheeled competition.

Getting started with a motorcycle or scooter is a lot easier than you would think too as many riding schools are available offering CBT (compulsory basic training) courses as well as refresher courses for experienced riders returning to the fold.