I owned a courier company back in the 80's and 90's, the bike messengers referred to the car messengers vehicles as "cages". Of course the taxi drivers referred to the bike messengers as "hood ornaments". I have a motorcycle and MJ has a Vespa and we don't ride often but you do have to be very aware and still that may not be enough. It is still very pleasant to get on the bike and feel that freedom and independence that even a convertible just can not match.

I am against the crazy driving of a lot of the scooter/motorcycle riders on island but if I was living on island I am pretty sure I would get a bike. I am also a believer in allowing lane splitting, but not at unreasonable rates of speed or in a reckless manor. I wish more states in the US would allow with conditions. Note that most of us bikers are not jerks, at least while on our bikes.
T