Scooter and Mopeds Make Great Financial Sense

A moped is typically a two wheeled vehicle resembling a motorbike. The differences between a motorbike and a mopeds are difficult to quantify, but typically will include some of the following factors.

Modern mopeds will often have a step through design rather than a motorbikes step over mounting system. Most mopeds are also equipped with an automatic transmission as opposed to a manual transmission on most motorbikes. Perhaps one of the main attractions of a mopeds is the simplistic twist throttle control, which, coupled with the lack of gears makes the process of travelling, simply a matter of twisting the right handlebar throttle.

Although most mopeds fall between the 50CC and 125CC range, there are also many 150CC mopeds even going as high as 500 CC.

Up until the 1980s, many mopeds had pushbike pedals, to allow the rider to actually peddle the bike for some distance.

These days, most mopeds do not have pedals, and the term is a generic phrase used to describe smaller motorbikes typically under 125CC. However mopeds exist that have a cubic capacity far higher than this, and the line between high end mopeds and a motorcycle can seem blurred.

Most mopeds have an automatic transmission, and the vast majority have a step through design.

In the UK, a provisional driving license can be obtained by anybody over the age of 16. However at this age only mopeds under 50CC can be licensed legally. The provisional licence is given only to those who pass a CBT.

C.B.T. stands for "Compulsory Basic Training" Many times you will hear it referred to as compulsory bike training.the latter is incorrect.

At age 17 and above, the CBT entitles the rider to ride a bike up to 125CC. And the 30 mile an hour speed restriction is lifted.

Mopeds safety, requires that all riders wear a motorcycle helmet, it is also recommended that riders wear brightly coloured clothing and scuff and impact proof armour. Most modern lightweight motorcycle clothing includes this armour in the form of shoulder pads knee-pads and elbow pads.

Modern mopeds have a fantastic fuel economy, often able to do close to 120km per gallon. In addition to the savings on fuel, this also reduces substantially the carbon dioxide emissions per mile.

With fuel prices increasing, the demand for mopeds has risen steadily in the last four years. They offer a practical and cheap solution for many applications where only one person is required to travel without a great deal of luggage. It has become quite common for car owners to own a mopeds as a second vehicle to cut down on costs for many local journeys.

What Are the Differences Between Mopeds and Scooters?

Mopeds and Scooters are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower running costs and purchase prices, indeed even the insurance can be very reasonable. So what are the differences between the two types of vehicle?

Design

A gas moped is a street legal 50cc motorcycle powered by gas. The original, older mopeds will generally have pedals to start the engine and were one of the first hybrid vehicles, using human pedal power to start the engine and a gas motor to power it after start up. In fact the name is derived from MOtor and PEDal. Scooters however are a more recent invention and will usually have either a key start or kick start mechanism.

Both scooters and mopeds will usually have what is known as a step through frame. The bigger scooter engines are placed to the rear and under the driver's seat, which will normally be made big enough to carry a passenger. The smaller moped motor are usually placed on the rear drive wheel. One of the other obvious main differences is that scooters have a platform for the feet to rest on; whereas mopeds have either pedals or a bar for a foot rest.

Performance

A traditional 50cc pedal moped is usually limited to not easily exceed 35mph, whereas a scooter will generally have a bigger engine capacity, usually about 125cc, and better acceleration and top speed performance figures. Scooters have a top speed of well over 50mph and up to 70mph depending on the engine capacity. The older mopeds do not have any gears, as transition is rendered unnecessary due to their limited speed. However I am sure we have all covered our ears when a moped races past at top speed screaming like a tortured bee!

Costs and Purchasing

You can still buy the original gas powered mopeds, complete with the pedals, although because of their age, they can often require some serious maintenance. The bigger engine sizes and superior performance make scooters more expensive to both purchase and run than mopeds. Gas mopeds however are cheap to buy, and very cheap to insure. You can buy a used gas moped for around $100 and more. You will be paying upwards of $500 for newer used scooters and mopeds.

Mopeds and Scooters and the Law

In some countries there is no age limit to ride a moped; however the more usual permitted age is 15, for scooters though it is more usual for a motorcycle license to be required and therefore the age limit is the same as that for motorcycles. This is the reason that gas mopeds are often the first powered vehicle anyone owns due to the lesser restrictions on driving ages in most countries around the world. They are slow and reasonably safe, if they are driven correctly and the driver has the proper training. Again the required training that prospective drivers must have differs greatly depending on country of residence.

50CC Mopeds - Ten Questions Answered

Mopeds are low-powered motorcycles which are generally defined as having engines of 50cc or less. Subject to certain qualifying factors, they can usually be driven by people too young to drive a car.

1. What is a Moped?

In the UK, a moped is defined as a motorcycle which has an engine capacity of no more than 50cc and which is designed to achieve a speed of no more than 50 kph (roughly 30mph). They should not be powered by pedals otherwise they are not defined as mopeds (unless they were on the road before 1st September 1977).

2. What qualifications do I need to drive a moped?

Anyone over the age of 16 may drive a moped legally on roads as long as they hold a provisional driving licence and have passed Compulsory Basic Training(CBT). Even then they must put L plates on the moped (or D plates in Wales) until they have passed a full test. Other countries in the world have different rules, but many follow the same principles.

3. How expensive are mopeds?

In the UK, new mopeds vary in price from around £600 to over £2,000 or more for well known brands with extra specifications. Retro scooters, which are mopeds styled with the classic looks of the 50s and 60s are likely to be more expensive than cheaper versions, but can start at £700 upwards for lesser known brands.

4. What are the most famous brands?

Vespa, Piaggio and Lambretta are all famous names, often associated with La Dolce Vita and the glamour of the mediterranean in summer. Famous and lesser known motorcycle brands from Japan, China and other parts of the Far East often make mopeds which are just as stylish.

5. Do I need to have special clothing?

It is essential to wear a helmet when driving your moped. This is the law in the UK and many European countries, but advisable everywhere. In the event of an accident your head is most susceptible to serious injury and a properly fitted helmet will protect it. It is certainly best to buy a new helmet to the correct standards and you must never use one which has been damaged in a crash or accident. It is sensible to wear other protective clothing and make sure your arms and legs are covered.

6. Can I take a passenger on a moped?

Drivers without full licenses cannot take a pillion passenger. They must have passed their test first and have no more need of L plates. Remember that if you take a pillion passenger, they also need to wear a helmet and it would be sensible for them to have protective clothing too.

7. Are mopeds easy to steal?

Mopeds will need a key to start them, but just like a motorbike or a bicycle, it is a good idea to have some other form of lock. There are several different types. It is worth spending a little more money on a good security device which has good certification. In some areas insurance companies may request a certain amount of security.

8. Do I need to have insurance for a moped or scooter?

In the UK, all drivers must have third party insurance for the vehicle they are driving - and that includes mopeds. This covers any damage done to anyone else or anything else. The next level of insurance is called "third party fire and theft" which also covers your scooter if it is damaged by fire or stolen. "Comprehensive" insurance policies cover damage to the moped itself whatever the cause and can include many other things, such as legal fees insurance. The motor insurance market is very competitive and it is worth shopping around every year to find the best deal.

9. What is the difference between a 49cc scooter and a 50cc moped?

Nothing really. Some countries define a moped as less than 50cc. Other define it as no more than 50cc. Manufacturers generally make the engines about 49cc capacity and so it's just a different way of describing them.

10. Should I buy a moped online or at a shop?

If it's new, I'd have no problem buying online as there are reliable company's who can deliver very quickly to you. You may also get the best deal. If you are buying something second-hand, it might be a good idea to see the scooter in person, but a second-hand private sale is unlikely to deliver anyway. If buying for a 16 year old, I would nearly always opt to buy new to ensure it is in good condition.

The Pros and Cons of Driving a 50cc Moped

One of the most convenient, cheap and fun ways to get to work or school is by riding a small motorcycle such as a 50cc moped. These are just some of the reasons I think that they are so great for all sorts of people, whether you are getting to work or school.

The main pros of riding a moped:

• Mopeds are cheap to buy. These little bikes are really cheap to buy. Often times you can get a used one for just a couple of hundred bucks if you look around. If you prefer to get a new one because you want reliability and the certainty of a warranty then you can still get a new one for pretty close to $1000, depending on the make and model you choose. Be careful however when you buy not to get one that is too cheap because some of the imported ones from places such as China have not yet earned reputations for reliability. Spare parts for these may also be hard to find. So it is often best to go with a solid European or Japanese brand such as Piaggio or Honda.
• Mopeds are cheap to run: Mopeds generally seem to run on just the sniff of an oil rag. Their Little engines buzz along and burn very little fuel. I have found doing commuting every day to work that I spend just a few dollars filling up the tank once a week. That is party because the tank is so small. Mine holds just a few liters of gasoline (petrol for people from the UK) and goes all week between refills. They are also cheap to maintain. This is because their engines are really simple so it does not take a lot of work to open them up for maintenance or repairs. There is also not very much that can go wrong. And because they are so small you spend less on parts compared with a car or a big bike. They have only two wheels, so replacing tires does not cost too much. They have only one spark plug so that is also cheap an quick to change.
• Mopeds are easy to ride: The other great thing about them is that they are usually really light and easy to ride. Most are "twist-and-go" bikes, which means you just turn the throttle to go and you do not have to worry about changing gears. This makes them perfectly suited to beginners. In many places such as Europe you do not have to take a special test to ride one. If you are allowed to drive a car, then you are generally entitled to ride a moped too. In some places the only formality is that you have to do a one day course of compulsory basic training that is aimed at keeping you safe on the road.

The cons of riding a moped

• Safety: Motorcycles are not all fun and games. Mopeds are generally safe and fun to ride but you are still more exposed to danger on a bike than you would be in a car. In an automobile you have a seat belt, crash protection and airbags that all come into play if you have a collision. On a bike you generally will only have a helmet and some protective gear such as gloves and a jacket and pants.
• Weather: Driving in a car means you can turn the heat up when it gets cold or you can put the air conditioner on when it gets too warm. On a motorcycle you are exposed to the elements. That means in winter you will be cold, even if you have warm gloves and clothing. It is also hard to stay dry in heavy rain. And on a hot sunny day you will soon get quite warm, even with the cooling breeze that is generated as you zoom along.

Buyers Guide for Imported Motorcycles and Scooters

Cheap scooters or 50cc bikes that are imported from places like China and India can look really tempting when you're 16 and looking for your first bike, and often the fact that they're almost half the price of bikes over here and make them really tempting. However, is there a catch or are these bargains legitimate? Our article shows you the advantages and disadvantages of buying cheap scooters online.

1. Reliability. When you buy from a typical dealership you assume there will be quality due to the brand. Likewise, cheap scooters can often be branded as unreliable if you buy from a company with a poor reputation. Reputable online sellers of scooters have invested large amounts of money in sourcing only the best 125cc scooters from places such as China, meaning reliability should not normally be a problem.

2. Quality. Cheap mopeds usually are cheap because they are made overseas where materials and the cost of labour is cheaper. Unlike the big brands, less money is also spent on marketing the products which means savings can be passed on to the consumer.

3. Parts. Sometimes accidents happen and you need to replace part of your cheap motorbike. If you've bought from a foreign based importer, getting a replacement part such as a wing mirror can be difficult. Most online sellers will stock a range of spares, or alternatively your local dealership is likely to as well. When you buy, make sure they have replacement parts available and in stock.

4. Repairs. Some bike shops will not be familiar with imported products such as scooters. The best way to avoid being left with a broken scooter you can't ride is to make sure that when you buy you ask about local repairmen who will work with your scooter.

5. Registration. A lot of online stores will allow you to buy a registration pack when you purchase the moped so that you can register it with the DVA yourself when it arrives. This is actually much better for you as it means that the bike is brand new and you're the first to own it, so although you'll need to wait a few days before it is registered and you can ride it on the road it's better than riding a pre-registered model.

6. Assembly. A lot of 125cc motorbikes or mopeds will be delivered to you via a courier service. Because of this, some minor parts may need to be put on by you because there will have been a risk of them being damaged in transit. Usually these are very simple things to attach such as mirrors and the battery and you don't need mechanic skills to be able to handle it.

7. Online. Buying online can be risky as some websites are misleading with descriptions or photos. If you buy from a reputable website, you will find that you can view high quality images and view photos in 360-degree rotation. To avoid any nasty surprises you should always research companies beforehand and look at the feedback they've been given before you commit to purchasing.

So, if you follow our seven key tips when buying your moped it can often mean that buying online can be a breeze and a large amount of money will be saved.

As a regular rider of both cheap motorbikes and learner legal bikes, Ben Davies has provided advice to both new and experienced users. He offers his assistance to others having seen how difficult it can be to find the perfect product online at the best possible price.

Moped Insurance - Do You Really Need It?

Any vehicle you own needs an insurance coverage. This is a must whatever type you have, whether it's recreational, sports or one you regularly use. Motorbikes or mopeds, as what they're commonly known, are not exempted.

Mopeds, even though they've gone through different classifications and have less licensing requirements, also need an insurance coverage. Additionally, the legal driving age for this low-powered type of motorcycle is lower at 15 years of age compared to the regular vehicles and motorcycles.

Mopeds are smaller in size and less bulky compared to the regular motorcycles. The term used is derived from two words - motor and pedal as coined by Harald Nielsen, a Swedish journalist in 1952.

These motorbikes can be with or without pedals. Normally with two wheels, they have limited use and speed limits especially in public roads and not allowed to run on freeways. As far as passengers are concerned, some states allow only one passenger other than the driver while other states are stricter allowing only a driver to ride the moped.

Laws that apply for mopeds differ from state to state. Some areas classify mopeds as motorcycles which means a motorcycle license is a major requirement in order to drive one. Some states may allow the regular driver's license to operate a moped although some require a separate license for this low-powered motorcycle. It is thus important to check first the laws in your area before deciding on getting insurance coverage for your motorbike.

Shopping from several insurance providers is also essential. This will help you find out which one offers the most comprehensive coverage at affordable rates. You can actually request for quotes from each of them to give you a better idea of their premium prices if budget is a concern for you. Some websites offer free quotes by allowing potential clients to fill out a registration form but you can also call the firm if you wish.

Be particular about coverage. Remember this will serve as your protection when any untoward incident occurs while you're driving a moped so it's advisable to choose the best one for your personal use. Things to consider if you've owned your moped for several years and are living in a populated location are accidents such as collisions, third party fire and theft.

It is also very important to learn about the terms and conditions on safety of any insurance plan you choose especially one that provides coverage to accidents. Most usually require the use of helmets as well as reflectors and lights for driving during nighttime.

But other than the coverage of the moped insurance policy and rates, you may also want to verify the company. Find out how long the company has been in the business and how many clients they have served so far. Most insurance providers have established an online presence wherein they provide their contact details so take advantage of this if you're particular of a company's reputation.

Know that you're spending money for an insurance policy as long as you own a moped so make sure that the coverage that you choose fits your needs.

Mopeds, Cars and the Road

Mopeds used to be an anomaly only seen in Europe. Soon culture in the United States changed and mopeds became a popular asset for those looking for economically friendly ways to get from place to place. Depending on the city you live in, you may see tons of mopeds or non at all. But it is impossible to deny that their popularity only seems to grow with time.

What is a Moped?

A moped is basically a type of low-powered motorcycle. They are designed to be very economical and relatively safe as when compared to a motorcycle. They are only capable of going certain speeds. The restriction on their speed capability keeps moped riders off the highways. These vehicles are strictly meant for commuting within a relatively localized area.

Because of this, they are ideal for individuals who live in densely populated cities which have a strong city center. They are not a great choice for those who live in suburban areas or "metro-plexes" in which a long highway commute would be required to getting to and from work.

Mopeds are the smallest motorized vehicles on roadways. Moped riders must take great caution as they ride because of this. A moped can easily be tossed yards when it collides with a car. Additional moped dangers include:

o Limited agility-mopeds are not designed for intense driving. They offer the bare minimum in means of transportation. Most vehicles do not have the fast acting breaks and superb maneuverability of most cars and motorcycles on the market today.

o No protection-like motorcycles, mopeds have no safety devices to help in the event of a crash. Moped riding is often not taken as seriously as motorcycle riding because of the speed restrictions, so many riders do not take the proper caution necessary for safe riding.

o Small gas tanks-mopeds are very kind on the wallet. They have small gas tanks and very good mileage. But because of the small tank, running out of gas is a constant threat.

o Small weight-because mopeds are so light, they can jerk or turn over at the slightest road hazard. Potholes and roads with breaking asphalt should be avoided when on a moped.

It is vital that moped riders are aware of their small size and various restrictions when they are driving in order to avoid serious and potentially deadly wrecks with cars.

For more information on wrecks involving mopeds and cars, visit the website of the Green Bay car accident lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier, SC.

What Are Moped Motorcycles?

Moped is a low powered motorcycle for sale especially designed for easy traveling. These are generally used by teenagers, women and old aged people. Many youngsters don't want to rely on their parents for their transport. Most of them are buying for the college or tuition classes. As it is light weighted, it is easy to drive. Anyone can drive the moped if they know riding. Youngsters are ready to take the responsibility and are doing part time jobs. Moped also helps them to reach the place in time and they can afford the moped as it is very cheap compared to other motorcycles.

Moped has bicycle like pedals and it comes in various models. Generally moped is of two tires. Age is less as compared to other bikes and they travel 50km per hour. As the moped is a small vehicle, others may not recognize it from the distance. They are very slow as compared to other bikes. On the high speed roads, it is more likely that the accidents may occur. In western societies, they conduct moped racing, this is also used for that purpose. Taking insurance is also one of the important factors for the mopeds in motorcycles for sale. It has low emission of gas and they are mostly used on the roads where there is low traffic. For heavy vehicles like lorry, bus and many more, they cannot see the moped from a far distance as it is small vehicle.

If you are ready to buy the moped from motorcycles for sale shows, try to buy the one which is very safe. Take care that you should not drive on the heavy traffic roads. Place the dark blinking stickers at the front and back which are observed by the heavy vehicles while riding.

Why Scooters and Mopeds Are Great For the Environment

With gas prices on the rise and an increase in the cost of living, people are looking for ways to cut back and save money. Electric mopeds, electric bicycles and gas powered scooters can reduce the use of gas and climate change. They are also fun to ride.

If you are thinking about getting a scooter, you may want to consider an electric moped. Electric mopeds are great for someone who lives in a city or a highly urbanized area because they help you get around with ease. They are powered by batteries and an electric motor and offer those environmentally conscience a good source of alternative transportation. Because electric mopeds are not powered by any type of fuel, they will not pollute the air with carbon emissions which is detrimental to our environment.

Electric bicycles are fun to ride and benefit the environment and sustainability of global economy. They are proven to deliver the highest possible energy efficiency, even likened to traditional pedal bikes. Electric bicycles also diminish air and noise pollution. While having a car has its benefits, electric bicycles is a much more affordable option.

Gas powered scooters are an affordable, easy to handle and environment friendly means of transportation. Gas powered scooters discharge very low carbon emissions therefore causes minimal air pollution. These scooters are the chosen favorite with most scooter enthusiasts. There are a lot of different makes and models with their own features that will help you save money, especially at the pump. Gas powered scooters have been popular for many years. They originally started out as motorcycles and then gradually evolved into motor scooters.

So there are many benefits in owing either an electric moped, electric bicycle or gas powered scooter. If you are someone who cares about the amount of toxins polluting the air, either of these would make an excellent choice.

The Basics of Motorcycle and Moped Insurance Coverage

Discover Your State's Opinion on the Difference between Moped and Motorcycle Insurance

Mopeds and motorcycles might both be motorized bikes, but there are some very important differences between them. In many states for insurance, registration and inspection purposes, mopeds that have no gears or shifting mechanisms and engines that are less than 50 cubic centimeters will often not be considered motorcycles and will instead be treated as small recreational vehicles similar to snowmobiles.

In the state of New Jersey, the DMV states that they consider motorcycles to have engines that are 50 cubic centimeters and higher and to have a permanent saddle seat or platform for the driver. Mopeds, which are exempt from state inspections, must have pedals for traditional cycling and a motor of less than 50 CCs with the ability to reach speeds no greater than 25 miles per hour. Scooters, however, are treated as motorcycles no matter what size their motor.

Check out your state's DMV to see how they categorize your new set of wheels.

Meet the Basic Insurance Requirements

Once you've determined how your state classifies your vehicle, you must understand what the insurance requirements are. While these requirements might offer minimal coverage, it's a starting place to at least comply with state regulations. Generally speaking, each state will have the same requirement for motorcycle insurance as they do for standard automobiles. The state of Washington, however, does not require insurance for mopeds or motorcycles. And in the state of Louisiana it doesn't matter what you ride because to register either a moped or motorcycle, you have to follow the same set of insurance guidelines.

Once you've clarified the basic requirements you must meet for proper coverage in your state, your next step is to determine how practical these minimal requirements are. Often, the state-required limits leave motorcycle and moped drivers exposed to financial risks after an accident. For instance, your state likely has no requirement about comprehensive or collision coverage-which leaves you paying out of pocket for damages to your bike after a theft, fire or collision.

Instead of settling for the minimums, think about how much is at stake in an accident and get affordable coverage that actually protects your investment.

Custom Parts and Equipment Coverage

Finally, both mopeds and motorcycle drivers may want to consider custom parts and equipment coverage. If you have customized your bike-added any electronic equipment or a sidecar, had it custom painted or plated, added a new exhaust system or invested in pricey safety apparel or a trailer, then your comprehensive coverage in your standard insurance policy may not offer you enough to replace the cost of the items and installation after an accident.

As mentioned, comprehensive coverage does offer some benefits for custom parts and equipment, but the limit is lower than many bike upgrades cost.

Getting the right insurance coverage for your moped or motorcycle means protecting your wallet from the cost of accidents and damage to another's property. It ensures not only that your bike will have some financial protection but also that the others around you will get the right reimbursement after being involved in an accident with your bike. Call an agent and find out all the different points you should consider to have your bike covered properly.

Become a Motorcycle Mechanic

Motorcycle mechanics are responsible for repairing and overhauling two wheeled motorized vehicles. Some of the most common are motorcycles, mopeds, motor scooters, dirt bikes, and all-terrain vehicles. Mechanics may perform a wide variety of repair and service duties, including transmission work, engine repair, brake jobs, ignition work, and even minor body repairs. Most motorcycle mechanics are employed by dealers that service a limited number of makes and models of motorcycle. For this reason, mechanics tend to specialize in servicing only the types of vehicle that their employers sell. Work hours tend to be seasonal, with heaviest workloads occurring in the spring and summer.

Education, Certification, Licensing

The ideal motorcycle mechanic possesses a combination of classroom and garage experience. High school graduates are preferred by employers and initial training in the profession usually includes small engine courses acquired through high school, vocational school, or community college programs. A growing number of motorcycle mechanics today graduate from formal motorcycle programs beyond high school. A large amount of a mechanic's training takes place on the job and a few years experience is usually necessary for full proficiency in the trade.

Because motorcycle mechanics typically service the specific models of the company that employs them, they need to learn the specific nuances of their particular model. For this reason, employers often send mechanics and trainees to specialized courses conducted by motorcycle manufacturers or distributors. These courses, which usually do not exceed two weeks in duration, upgrade the mechanic's skill set and provide updated information on repairing new models. There are no nationally recognized certifications in this field; however, the short term training offered by manufacturers and distributors typically concludes with an industry certification. These certifications can be valuable to a mechanic's employment opportunities and future salary.

Gas Moped Scooters Are Driving Me Nuts - Quiet Please!

Does the sound of gas moped scooters bother you? It drives me nuts; let me explain. I recently moved to Spain from the UK and after getting my bearings one of the first things I noticed was the difference in the amount of cars on the road; now you would think that fewer cars would be a good thing, however I have reservations. You see there is a fundamental difference here - the weather is better - some 300 days of sunshine a year, which means that there is a huge proportion of the traveling public using motorcycles, mopeds and scooters.

Again I hear you say that must be a good thing as it has to be good for the environment, I agree, however during the summer the noise pollution which occurs at peak times of the day and well into the night can be unbearable. There is also the issue of two stroke engines pumping pollutants into the atmosphere.

That got me thinking about how the scooter manufacturers should be introducing alternative methods of powering these machines. I started to search the big ones such as Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki etc as they seem to be the main culprits for the noise on the streets around my house. I was amazed at the work that had been done in finding an alternative mode of power, such as Yamaha's range of hybrid motorcycles which were launched at motor shows in 2005. The problem is they don't seem to have been brought to market.

It appears that most of the big manufacturers have built concept models and showed them at the major motor shows but few have been have made it to the street.

Honda have been a notable exception to that rule with the stunning Vectrix and have produced a good looking electric motorcycle which is packed with technology and is capable of giving a traditional city bike a run for it's money. Compare them like for like, and it is hard to tell the difference between it and a petrol scooter, however when you open up the throttle the lack of engine noise gives it away.

Plug it in at night and it will return over 70 miles on a two our charge, It has a top speed of around 65 mph and is extremely comfortable. One of the cleverest things about the Honda Vectrix is it's regenerative braking unlike a gas scooter when you ease off the throttle the scooter does not slow, however you twist it past it's resting point and the brakes kick in - the further it is twisted the more it brakes, and whilst it does so it turns the motor into a dynamo which tops up the battery charge.

The down side of this fabulous bike is the price, bearing in mind the age group of the average rider is probably between seventeen and thirty years old, I think $12000 which is about 8000 Euro could be be prohibitive and will take take time for them to enter the pr-owned after market.

In the winter when the tourists go home and the town returns to normal the noise subsides and you can hear the birds singing, I only hope that in the coming year the big scooter manufacturers can break down the technology barriers which restrict the development of alternatively fueled bikes and scooters so that we may live in peace.

Teen Driver Safety For Motorcycles, Mopeds and Scooters

Many teen drivers today are turning to motorcycles, mopeds and scooters for transportation. These vehicles cost little to nothing (in the case of electric scooters) for gas, are easy to maneuver and park, and in some states, mopeds and scooters can be legally operated at a younger age than required for passenger vehicles and/or can be legally operated without a driver's license. But the benefits of these vehicles are offset by the compromise in safety.

Motorcycles, mopeds and scooters are less visible in traffic, and their riders are much more vulnerable to injury in a crash. Riders of these vehicles must take this into account.

Here are some safety tips for riders:

Make training a priority. Even if a license is not required, for safety's sake, practice extensively in a variety of road and weather conditions. Learn how to minimize wobbling when accelerating and how to avoid locking the wheels when braking. Ask a seasoned rider for help. If a license is required, make sure to get one - about one-quarter of fatally injured motorcycle riders don't have a valid license.

Choose the roads you use carefully. Try not to select those with heavy, fast-moving traffic. Mopeds and scooters are not allowed on some roads.

Watch for vehicles following you too closely. You have the ability of stopping much more quickly than cars. If you stop quickly in front of a vehicle that is following too closely, you could be run over. Drivers may tailgate a moped or scooter because these vehicles often travel at lower speeds than cars. Use a hand or electric signal well ahead of a stop or turn to give drivers behind you time to slow down.

All of these vehicles are less stable and less visible than cars, but motorcycles combine this with high-performance capabilities. Don't overuse the power of the motorcycle and cause a crash. Per mile traveled, the number of deaths on motorcycles is about 26 times the number in cars.

Weather and road conditions present greater difficulties for you than to the driver of a passenger vehicle. A puddle may hide a hole that jolts a car; the same hidden hole can throw your vehicle out of control. When it rains, reduced traction may make it difficult for you to see and balance and reduce your control of the vehicle. A wind gust could move your vehicle across an entire lane. Gravel roads decrease traction and may cause you to slow down or brake where a car or not. Anticipate these changes whenever possible and begin slowing down early so vehicles behind you will have time to react. Use extra care when crossing railroad tracks. The tires of your vehicle could get caught in the grooves of the crossing, causing you to lose your balance.

Never carry a passenger unless it is legal and you are comfortable doing so. Passengers change the way you operate your vehicle. If you are inexperienced in transporting a passenger, you may have extra difficulties with balance and control of your vehicle.

Whether it's required by law or not, always wear a helmet. Helmets are about 37 percent effective in preventing rider deaths and about 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries. A rider who isn't wearing a helmet is 40 percent more likely to suffer a fatal head injury compared with a helmeted rider.

Learn more about how to get your motorcycle learners permit and license today and start your adventures safely!

Gas Moped Scooter - Not Just For Fun

Buying a gas moped scooter is a great way to have fun on the road without emptying your bank account. In the past scooters have mainly been used by teenagers for getting to and from friends houses, school or college. You can often see them admiring each others scooters outside coffee shops etc. The most popular models being the Vespa, Lambretta, piaggio and the smaller Honda models.

This trend is now starting to show signs of change, the main reason is the recent rise in gas prices and heavy city traffic, consequently more and more commuters are looking at the gas moped scooter as a reliable way of getting around town.

The scooter companies are beginning to recognize this and are producing higher spec models to entice the more mature dollar their way. One of the biggest producers is Honda who have a stunning range of higher powered scooters, such as the Silver Wing; this a stunning gas moped scooter which is sleek and stylish it has a smooth liquid cooled twin engine and the acclaimed Honda v-matic transmission. The Silver Wing has a seating capacity for two and tons of storage for that hard to stow brief case and spare motorcycle helmet.

If you want the comfort of the Silver Wing but with a smaller engine the Honda Reflex is a great choice. From city streets to country roads to long stretches of highway, the Reflex gas moped scooter is built for any number of rides. Its smooth 249cc engine, automatic transmission and comfortable seating for two deliver the goods to get you going, wherever the day takes you.

The Piaggio X9 Evolution 500 is an excellent gas moped scooter and satisfies all needs. Agile, easy to handle and the most compact of all maxi scooters. Once out of town, it is able to shift character and open up to wide open spaces with remarkable ease. The X9 has a top speed of 98mph comes with disc brakes and and on board computer.

It is well worth considering using a scooter or small motorcycle for getting around the city or those short trips to the store or football game where you can just park and forget it. You will be amazed how much you will save on insurance premiums and most of all gas. One fill up will probably satisfy the average commuting needs for a month so why not make your next vehicle purchase a gas moped scooter.

Mini Motorcycles

Throughout this article I'm going to go through all the major types of Mini Motorcycles, and give a brief idea or trait of each one. To begin we will start off with the "Pocket Bike".

The Pocket Bike is cousins with the crotch rocket. These two Bikes are very similar in design and sleekness. When sitting on a Pocket Bike your body is bent over the bike making you and the bike as aerodynamic as possible. The Pocket Rocket is made for the streets, and can reach speeds as high as 60+mph.

Our next vehicle will be the Mopeds. Mopeds are great mini motorcycles for a number of reasons. Mopeds best trait have to be the fact that they can reach numbers as high as 100 miles per gallon. With such high mpg numbers, you can't go wrong with a moped when your trying to save money on transportation. Not to mention you can get an electric moped and avoid fuel completely.

ATV's are also under the category of Mini Motorcycles. These mini vehicles have an endless list of uses. With an ATV you have the best of both worlds. Whether your trail riding with your friends, or helping out around the house doing some yard work.

Mini Motorcycles are great for many different reasons. Whether you simply want to have some fun, save some gas money, or help do work around the house, Mini Motorcycles have it all. I myself have an ATV and a Moped, and i wouldn't trade ether of them in for the world.

What Kind of License is Required to Operate a Moped?

When operating any type of vehicle, it is crucial to ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Failure to comply may result in heavy fines, having your vehicle impounded, and even jail time. As such, it is vitally important to understand the different licensing requirements and regulations for different vehicles. The majority of people are familiar with the licensing requirements for non-commercial cars and trucks; however, they are often less clear regarding the requirements for motorcycles, mopeds, and motor scooters.

A moped, or motorized bicycle, requires the possession of an M2 or M1 license. Additionally, you will be issued special license plates and identification cards upon payment of a one-time fee. To operate a motor scooter, you are required to obtain an M2 or M1 license. This type of vehicle does not need to be registered.

An M1 license allows the holder to operate any two-wheel motorcycle, motorized scooter, or motor driven cycle as well as all vehicles listed under a class M2 license. An M2 license only allows for the operation of motorized bicycles (also known as mopeds), motorized scooters, and any bicycle with an attached motor. The minimum age for M2 and M1 licenses may vary within the United States as each state is permitted to set its own requirements. Licensing ages and requirements will also vary from one country to the next.

In addition to obtaining the proper license, it is also important to be aware of the specific laws and regulations relevant to your vehicle. For example, a motorized scooter is permitted for use on highways and a moped is not. Just as licensing laws vary by state so do helmet and insurance laws. Some states require that helmets be worn at all times while driving a moped or motor scooter and others do not. Insurance requirements also vary from state to state. Prior to purchasing your motor scooter, it is a good idea to first research all laws and regulations associated with your vehicle so that you can be sure to always be in compliance. An excellent resource for this information is your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. A quick visit to your state's DMV website will often provide all the answers you need. If you find yourself with additional questions, you may call your DMV or visit a local office for further information. The representative you speak with will be happy to answer all your questions and assist you in obtaining the proper license and identification cards.