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.