Since appearing on Wichita streets in July, electric rental scooters have incited their share of wrath.
Critics call them “stupid,” “trashy,” “an absolute menace” and “all kinds of bad.”
Supporters, including transportation officials and members of the city’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board, say the initial frustration is understandable, but things should improve as e-scooters become a part of Wichita’s landscape and culture.
What neither side may realize: This battle began more than a century ago.
Motorized scooters, first called autopeds and powered by an air-cooled engine over the front wheel, debuted in 1915.
(Read more: Wichita Eagle)