Electric personal mobility vehicles (PMVs) have become increasingly popular in urban areas. But, with so many options on the market, deciding which type of PMV is right for you can be overwhelming. Two popular choices are mopeds and electric scooters. Both are environmentally friendly, efficient, and affordable. However, each has its distinct features and advantages. In this blog post, we will compare mopeds and scooters, and explore which vehicle is better suited for your urban travels.
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What are Electric scooters?
An electric scooter is a two-wheeled vehicle powered by an electric motor and a rechargeable battery. It typically features a handlebar for steering, a deck for the rider to stand on, and small, low-to-the-ground wheels. The acceleration and braking are usually controlled by a throttle and brake lever on the handlebar.
Electric scooters are known for their portability, convenience, and ease of use, making them popular choices for short-distance travel, especially in urban areas. But it’s not the only string to their bow, they’re also great for exploring new locations, having fun, and connecting with your inner child.
They can reach speeds of around 15-20 miles per hour (depending on the model), and their batteries can typically last for about 10-40 miles per charge (again, depending on the specific model).
It's important to note that the rules regarding the use of electric scooters on public roads vary by location, so it's crucial to check local regulations before hitting the road.
What are Mopeds?
A moped is a small, low-powered two-wheeled vehicle. Moped is a portmanteau word coined from the combination of "motor" and "pedal," which refers to their early design, where pedals were used for propulsion and to start the motor. It resembled a cross between a bicycle and motorbike in all but name.
Photo by Tristan Gevaux on Unsplash
Whereas modern mopeds often don't have pedals and are designed more like small motorcycles, with an engine capacity typically not exceeding 50cc. They usually have a top speed of around 28-30 mph (45-48 km/h), although this can vary depending on local laws and regulations.
There are also electric mopeds, eliminating the need for gas and making them an eco-friendly transportation option. They typically come with a throttle for speed control and can reach varying speeds depending on their design and power.
Mopeds are popular for their fuel efficiency, ease of parking, and affordability compared to cars or larger motorcycles. They're typically used for short-distance travel, particularly in urban areas. Like electric scooters, the rules for riding mopeds on public roads can vary greatly by location, so it's important to be aware of local laws and regulations.
Mopeds regulations
In the United States, two-wheel vehicles with 50cc engines or smaller that cannot travel over 30 to 35 miles per hour are generally considered mopeds. The definition of a moped and the regulations surrounding them, such as the need for registration, insurance, and a specific driver’s license, vary from state to state.
Check your state's moped regulations here.
E-Scooter regulations
In the United States, the minimum age for riding an electric scooter is 16 years. However, each state has different age restrictions. For instance, in Virginia, riders must be at least 14 years old to ride an e-scooter. Utah requires a minimum age of 15 years, and Michigan and Minnesota require a minimum age of 12 years.
Most states in the US don’t require a license to use a private e-scooter, but some states do. Riders should inquire about their local laws for their specific requirements.
For more information on e-scooters regulations in the US, click here.
Mopeds vs. E-scooters
E-mopeds and e-scooters differ in terms of their top speed, weight, seat availability, and safety requirements.
Top speeds
Mopeds have higher top speeds, on average 30 MPH, while e-scooters speeds vary greatly depending on the make, model and intended use, but on average commuter e-scooters have an average speed of 15-20mph.
Weight and portability
Mopeds can weigh anything between 200-300 lbs, a bit too much to carry them comfortably into the office. On the other hand, e-scooters weigh only between 15-30 lbs which greatly increases their portability and makes it easier to get to work without having to find a parking spot, especially useful in highly-congested urban areas.
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The most obvious difference between the two vehicles is that mopeds come with a seat, while e-scooters, usually, do not. It can be a bummer in case of longer trips. But some brands are coming up with ways to address that issue and make it possible to install a seat on their e-scooter. Look at how Apollo Scooters dealt with that particular issue. Do you like it? It looks rad, doesn’t it?
Safety
Given their smaller size, mopeds might not be as visible when you're zipping around on busy roads with larger vehicles. Naturally, this can up the risk factor a bit. That's why it's super important to stay alert and always wear a helmet - it's not just a good idea, it's the law.
E-scooters can definitely hit some high speeds. But since you're not exactly in the same category as cars or motorcycles, and more along the lines of cyclists, the risks aren't quite as high. Even so, popping on a helmet is still a smart move. It might not be a requirement, but hey, better safe than sorry, right?
Whether you're riding a moped or an e-scooter, remember, every vehicle has its risks - motorized or not. So, keep that helmet handy and take advantage of any safety measures you can.
Bottom line
When it comes to zipping around the city, electric mopeds and scooters each have their own sweet spots.
Think of mopeds as your long-haul buddies. They're great for those longer trips, and with a seat included, they're all about comfort. They're a bit heavier and faster, but keep in mind, that you'll probably need a license and registration for these guys.
Now, e-scooters, they're perfect for quick hops around town or that daily commute. Plus, you can skip the whole rigmarole of licensing and registration.
So, when it comes down to it, the best pick really depends on what you're after - whether it's comfort, travel distance, or just ease of use. It's all about finding the right ride for your needs.
Mopeds and motor scooters are an exceptional alternative option for those that don’t want the burden of owning and maintaining a car in Hawaii. Some people think mopeds and scooters are the same and use the terms interchangeably. That’s because they’re both easy to operate and get around for short distances. They’re also smaller and consume less gas compared to motorcycles. Let’s examine the distinct features of mopeds and scooters to help you determine which type of two-wheeler is best for you.
While both vehicles have a step-through frame or a platform instead of foot pedals, mopeds(a combination of the words “motor” and “pedal” as they first started as motor-powered pedal bikes) motors are 50 cubic centimeters or lower. They can legally only seat one person and must be on roadways of 45 mph or lower.
Meanwhile, scooters’ motors can exceed 50cc, with such larger motors capable of riding up to 75-85 MPH but with a mileage of 60 miles per gallon. They might be allowed to join highway vehicular traffic depending on their size. However, depending on the engine size, this might force riders to run the engine at full speed (over-revving) for extended periods, which can endanger you as a rider and damage your engine if the ccs are low enough.
1. Purpose
Ask yourself: How far and how often will you be using it? Will you be usually riding by yourself or with a companion? Will you be usually bringing any cargo with you during trips? Your answers to these questions will help you determine which two-wheeler is appropriate for you and what its motor size should be.
Mopeds must stay off the H-1, H-2, H-3 and off of roadways with speed postings greater than 45 mph. While scooters can legally drive on these roadways, but may be under-powered if it is 125cc or less. You should also check the terrain and speed limits leading to your destination to see if you can meet the required minimum.
A moped’s weight limit is normally 200 to 350 pounds while scooters 150cc and above would have limits ranging from 330 to 500 pounds. Overloading can easily wear out your tires, strain your brakes, and affect your fuel use.
2. Your height
Your moped or scooter should be just the right size so that when you stand up or dismount your vehicle, you can easily land your feet on the ground.
3. License plates
Hawaii requires mopeds and scooters to be registered and bear license plates.
The state doesn’t have a Department of Motor Vehicles, but each county has a specific office serving this purpose. Oahu-based motor vehicle dealers usually register and license your two-wheelers for you. Otherwise, you’ll need to fill out an Application for Registration form signed by you and the dealer and then submit this to a Satellite City Hall. You also have to get your vehicle inspected at any of these stations to obtain a Hawaii Vehicle Inspection Certificate. The city hall will issue a license plate and emblem while the inspection station will place a decal on your moped certifying that it passed the safety inspection.
You’ll need at least a valid Class 1 driver’s license or Hawaii issued permit to legally operate a moped. Meanwhile, you have to present a motorcycle license to operate a scooter as they’re treated like motorcycles in Hawaii. Driver education requirements are required for persons aged 17 and younger.
4. Helmets
Moped and scooter drivers below age 18 are required by law to wear helmets with chin straps. Only scooters are allowed to have passengers, who should wear helmets accordingly. Children aged six and below are also not allowed to ride as passengers on scooters. Due to safety reasons, however, donning helmets is still highly recommended although not legally required for those aged 18 and above.
5. Parking laws
Parking a scooter or moped is significantly easier than parking a car, especially in Honolulu. There are usually designated parking stalls or spaces for mopeds and scooters. It’s best to park, chain, and lock them onto bike racks through the rear tire whenever they’re available. Some areas charge owners a minimal daily fee. Whenever possible, research your destination ahead of time to determine what kind of parking is available in that area.
6. Fuel economy
Mopeds and small scooters can average over 100 miles per gallon, making them more fuel-efficient than motorcycles. Meanwhile, the mileage of mid-sized scooters (125 to 150cc) that can carry a passenger is just around 80 mpg.
Wide or oversized tires, frequent revving, and carrying unnecessary weight can increase your fuel consumption.
7. Insurance
Mopeds don’t need to be insured in Hawaii, but scooters do. The minimum coverage should include $20,000 per person for bodily injury in case of an accident or $40,000 if several people were hurt and $10,000 for property damage. Optional coverage includes personal injury medical payments worth up to $10,000, damage coverage for your vehicle, or income disability plan. Full motor scooter insurance is significantly cheaper than any comparable car policy.
8. Test drive opportunities
Hawaiian Style Rentals & Sales is happy to offer a try & buy program where you can rent a vehicle for the day and we can put the first day’s rental rate toward the purchase.
9. Financing
Hawaiian Style Rentals & Sales is offering six month 0% interest financing for all qualified customers and eighteen month 0% interest financing for any customers who purchase at least three aftermarket Scooter Works accessories.
Renting a moped or scooter with Hawaiian Style Rentals is a great way to discover which type of two-wheeler gives you the best ride. You can book with us before choosing from our array of mopeds and scooters that are for sale and supplied by Genuine Scooters Company. Rentals include a driving lesson, detailed tour maps, a helmet, and a safety lock.
Once you’ve completed your rental period, you can visit our online store at Shop.hawaiimoped.com to check on our brand new and used two-wheelers as well as accessories, or drop by our physical shop in Honolulu. Discover your perfect ride today!
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