Scooter Ding Ding fully debuts this spring

SANDUSKY — A new business has scooted into the local region. Scooter Ding Ding — a joint venture between area restaurateur Cesare Avallone along with spouses Jessica and Kyle Wright — recently launched in a quiet fashion, via a soft opening, in various notable locations throughout Huron and Sandusky. The entire business, meanwhile, should fully debut, grand opening style, within a month's time. Among the locations where scooters can be rented: Boom Town Coffee in Sandusky, which Avallone owns; along with another coffee shop, Gathering Grounds, in Huron; as well as Nickel Plate Beach. Each scooter run on electricity: After an initial kick off the ground, people can steer themselves, cruising up to 15 mph. Generally speaking, anywhere bicyclists can ride, so, too, can those on scooters. "It provides ultra mobility to the visitors and residents of downtown Sandusky and Huron," Avallone said. "The throttle is the variable: You don't have to floor it. It has a low center of gravity because the battery is on bottom. It's very stable and very maneuverable." Before hopping on an electric scooter, people must download the "Scooter Ding Ding" app on a mobile device, such as an iPhone or Android. Afterward, riders then scan the QR code on top of their desired scooter. Then the desired scooter unlocks and becomes available to ride. People can rent the scooters for as long as they'd like. The longer the ride, the more expensive the trip will be. A one-hour ride averages out to about $22. "We've seen people ride for five minutes, and we've seen people ride for hours. It just varies," said Jessica, who manages several of her family's businesses. Only people 14 and older can ride a scooter, and those under 18 must wear a helmet. "It's fun for all ages," Avallone said. "You see kids ages 15 or 16 that are having a blast, and people that are 30 or 40, or older, are having just as much fun." The three co-owners underscored how their new business strikes a balance between entertainment, family fun and transportation. "They're a fun way to travel outside and get fresh air," Jessica said. Added Avallone: "It's a fun way to get around and tour the city quickly and you don't have to pedal." Kyle, a local attorney, chimed in, too: "They are easy, safe and stable to ride. Scooter Ding Ding is a quick, fun way to tour the town."