What is the Difference Between a Moped and a Scooter?

No one enjoys wasting time caught in gridlock. How often have you seen a moped or scooter zipping around cars and navigating its way through traffic while you are powerless to do anything but sit and wait? Have you longed to be that carefree individual not affected by the grind of the daily commute? Have you noticed a moped or scooter easily fit into a parking spot while you circle the block looking for a space big enough for your car or truck? With a moped or scooter, you can let go of your inner road rage and discover a better way to travel. Before making your purchase, you may first require information regarding these vehicles, including what differentiates one from the other.

One major difference between a moped and a scooter is the size of the engine and the power capacity. A moped has a small engine and is designated as a vehicle with a displacement under 50cc. In most cases mopeds are limited to top speeds of 30 to 35 miles per hour. As such, mopeds are intended to be driven on roads rather than highways.

In terms of body, a moped strongly resembles a bicycle. In fact, mopeds are typically built as bicycles and then equipped with a motor. Many, but not all, localities require that mopeds include pedals. The inclusion of pedals provides a safer ride and allows for a younger driving age in many places. Additionally, mopeds can often accommodate more than one rider.

In comparison to mopeds, scooters have larger engines and are often designated as vehicles with displacements between 50cc and 150cc. A scooter's engine is typically located in the rear of the scooter underneath the driver's seat. Scooters can travel at much greater speeds than mopeds, which makes them better suited to travel highways.

The body types of mopeds and scooters are similar and both typically have a step through frame. As defined by legislation in the United States, scooters must have a platform for the driver's feet. Another notable difference when comparing the body of a moped and scooter is that scooters are larger than mopeds.

Both mopeds and scooters are popular throughout the world, with mopeds being geared more towards younger generations and scooters being more frequently favored by those looking to save on gas and get more power than a moped without the attitude of a motorcycle. Additionally, both mopeds and scooters have options allowing for customization. As mopeds are more of a skeleton than a scooter, they typically feature more customization options.

Alex Sutton is the owner of a local automotive retailer. For more information please visit mopeds.