Even though the terms are used interchangably there is a quite a difference between scooters and mopeds. wiseGEEK.com‘s article “What is the Difference Between Scooters and Mopeds?” says that “The difference between a moped and scooter is found in the size of the engine and the power capacity,” but there are several differences between them. The line between them may be gray, but scooters and mopeds are as different as black and white.

First of all, the most obvious difference between mopeds and scooters is that mopeds typically have pedals on them that can be used to propel the bike. These pedals are also used to start the engine by engaging the clutch while the pedals are being turned or by turning them in reverse. In contrast, scooters usually have platforms in front of the rider that the rider places his or her feet on.

Scooters normally have smaller wheels than mopeds. Scooter wheels are generally 10″ (25.4 cm) to 16″ (40.64 cm) in diameter, whereas moped wheels are usually at least 16″ (40.64 cm) in diameter. Typically, mopeds have a smaller engine than most motor scooters. Moped engines are usually between 50 cc and 100 cc, whereas scooter motors generally range from 50 cc to 250 cc with some scooter engines being well over 400 cc. Scooter engines are usually mounted towards the back of the bike, typically on the rear swingarm. Moped engines are usually mounted on the underside of the frame near the rider’s feet.

The Wikipedia article on mopeds explains: “The earliest mopeds, introduced in the early 1950s, were standard bicycles with a helper motor in various locations, for example on top of the front wheel; they were also called cyclemotors.” These early vehicles were similar to what would now be referred to as a motorized bicycles, or motoredbikes.

Modern mopeds are designed to be propelled primarily by the engine, with the pedals being used only to start the engine. They can be used for propulsion in case of emergencies, such as engine failure. However, due to the weight of the vehicle, and the low gearing of the pedals, a moped being pedaled without engine power is often quite slow. Pedals are often only installed to comply with laws that require pedals in order for the vehicle to be legally recognized as a moped.

“Noped” is a term that is used to describe a vehicle that would otherwise be classified as a moped, but has been modified to have its pedals removed. Nopeds are popular in areas where the government does not require pedals on the vehicle for it to receive the legal benefits of a moped. (Photo of Yamaha QT50 Noped courtesy of Arman Bohn.)

Motorized bicycles, or motoredbikes, are generally bicycles with an internal combustion or electric engine attached to it. Usually, the engine is an afterthought in the overall design of the vehicle, or it has been added as an aftermarket attachment. Several companies sell bicycle motors, whereas few companies sell fully built motorized bicycles.

The legality of these classifications of vehicles varies greatly around the world and within each country.

See Wikipedia‘s relevant articles for more information:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moped

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scooter_(motorcycle)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorized_bicycles

If you are looking for a quality moped, scooter, or motorized bicycle, check out our listing of dealers.

Tax Breaks Available for Taxpayers Who Purchase Qualified Plug-In Electric Vehicles

IR-2009-45, April 24, 2009

WASHINGTON — Plug-in electric vehicles using certain types of batteries may qualify for a new tax credit if purchased this year, the Internal Revenue Service said today.

The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA) and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) created two new tax credits for various types of electric vehicles, which may include what are commonly referred to as neighborhood electric vehicles.

ARRA creates a tax credit for low-speed or two- or three-wheel electric vehicles, such as motor scooters, purchased after Feb. 17, 2009, and before Jan. 1, 2012. The amount of the credit is 10 percent of the cost of the vehicle, up to a maximum credit of $2,500. To qualify, a vehicle must be either a low-speed vehicle that is propelled to a significant extent by a rechargeable battery with a capacity of at least 4 kilowatt hours or be a two- or three-wheeled vehicle that is propelled to a significant extent by a rechargeable battery with a capacity of at least 2.5 kilowatt hours.

EESA created a tax credit for vehicles that have at least four wheels and draw propulsion using a rechargeable traction battery with at least four kilowatt hours of capacity. For 2009, the minimum credit is $2,500 and the credit tops out at $7,500 to $15,000, depending on the weight of the vehicle and the capacity of the battery.

During 2009, low-speed, four-wheeled vehicles manufactured primarily for use on public streets, roads and highways (neighborhood electric vehicles) may qualify both for the EESA credit and, if purchased after February 17, 2009, for the ARRA credit for low-speed electric vehicles. A taxpayer may not claim both credits for the same vehicle. Vehicles manufactured primarily for off-road use, such as for use on a golf course, do not qualify for either credit.

The Internal Revenue Service is working on guidance regarding certification procedures for both of these credits.

Page Last Reviewed or Updated: April 24, 2009

There are a lot of Moped/Scooter Insurance providers and it is important that you find a discount insurance company that provides you cheap low cost scooter insurance. You want to search for a insurance that is cheap but you also need to have a policy that will cover you in the event that you have an accident and need to go to the hospital. Having insurance when you are driving a scooter is very important because as with a motorcycle it is the law that you have coverage. You also want to make sure that if you are in an accident and it is your fault then you have enough coverage to pay for the other persons injuries.

Find the Best: Discount Insurance

When searching for insurance you need to make sure that you get multiple quotes because there is a lot of companies that have varying rates. There is no need to overpay for moped/scooter insurance because there are enough providers that will offer you a comprable policy for a lower price.

Get Cheap: Insurance Rates Now

There are some people that think that because you are driving a scooter that you do not need to have insurance but there is nothing that is further form the truth. When driving a scooter you are at the same risk as someone who is driving a car or motorcycle so make sure that you do not get caught without insurance coverage.

Remember that when you are looking for Scooter/Moped insurance that you check around to get the best price for the policy that you can. You need to check the policy coverage that you get for the amount the premium will cost you.

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.

Buying your first moped is the most exciting thing you could do. This is your first experience on a vehicle and a step into independence for many young people. Often some people may find that they rely heavily on their parents to give them a lift to places, which can be a problem when you find most of your friends are finding their own way of transportation. However, having a moped requires a lot of responsibility, which includes paying for moped insurance.
Buying moped insurance for the first can be both confusing and daunting. Where do you start with finding the right one? How do you know which one to select? What can you get from your insurance policy? Do you need an insurance policy? Why do you need insurance? Finally, why are they so expensive?
These are the questions you are going to ask yourself, considering you have never experienced the joys of paying for insurance and are not going to be able to rely upon your parents. This is a big step into the adult world I am afraid, but instead of moaning and groaning about the prospect of having to spend of your allowance or wages on insurance, why not see this as a way of protecting yourself from unpredictable crises.
Whether you like it or not, moped insurance is extremely important and is a legal requirement. You need to be able to ensure that you have cover, in case of any problems that may cause harm to you, the other party or your vehicle. Your first insurance quote will be steep, but that is only because you may not be familiar with is entailed with some insurance policies.
There are different types of insurance policy. Third, party insurance covers for third party damages and that’s it. Although this may not necessarily be directed for you, but there may be a possibility that your mate will borrow the moped so you will need to cover all corners before you let them, because if you are both caught without insurance you will be fined heavily. It is better to lose some money on insurance than losing more over a fine and face losing your license.
Third party fire and theft protection are exactly what they say they are. This will give you complete cover for the more devastating incidences but it will also cost you slightly more. Be prepared to pay for what you get, as the price of insurance is nothing compared to the price of fines and court fines.
Fully comprehensive insurance covers for all of the above but also for loss and theft as well damages. This is more for top of the range bikers and is indeed expensive; however, it is worth the money and is well worth looking into for the future. For a first time moped users this is not necessary and going for a basic insurance policy will suffice.
One final note is to approach insurance brokers, ask as many questions as you can they will point you to the right direction. Try not to be too inundated by insurance offers and quotes, but do try to get a clear idea of how much to spend and finding the right policy for you.

You don’t have to be Mr. Goodwrench to perform routine maintenance or even small repairs on your moped.

As a matter of fact, by following these simple steps you yourself can easily make your moped run smoother and more efficient…it could even result in your moped running up to 10 MPH faster than before!

Here’s what you do:

First, obviously make sure the moped engine is cool…don’t attempt this immediately after riding.

You’ll first need a good wire brush to loosen up and remove the built-up carbon.

We’re going to be what’s called decarbonizing…to do this, first remove the exhaust pipe and the muffler. You’ll see a clamp that connects the muffler to the exhaust…this has to be loosened.

Using the wire brush, thoroughly clean the inside of both the exhaust and the muffler, making sure that all loosened carbon residue is removed…remember that when brushing out the muffler, what you can’t get out with the brush can often be removed by shaking it.

Finally, look over all gas hoses and clamps as well as all your carbon connections and lines for carbon buildup and other deposits.

More times than not, this easy procedure will do the trick.

However, if problems still persist, you may need to consider cleaning the carburetor. If you find that you’ll need to do this, please remember to keep all the carburetor compenents together…it’s not hard at all to lose a piece.  

If your moped had troubles starting before, and after following these steps the problems persisted, you probably need to swap out spark plugs.

Check your manual and/or troubleshooting guide should you still experience mechanical problems.

For more handy tips, reviews, survey results and a source to the cheapest mopeds and scooters on the Web, visit cheapscootersUK.com (if you’re in the UK) or wildfiremopeds.com (US and everwhere else.)

Thanks for reading!

The first thing you should do when you even start to think about buying a moped is start by checking the local laws. The next thing, after really buying the moped, is to go and license it as well. The money should not really be an issue because the insurance costs for mopeds is really low. And except for the cost the insurance doesn’t differ that much from a motorcycle one. You should check online, there you can find some good insurance deals for mopeds. Mopeds are liked by thieves as well as something they can sell very easily but for just a fraction of the cost you can insure yourself against it.
Getting some discount
You should have a good look around before you pick your moped insurance there are a lot of companies that are offering discounts and promos. Another thing to look for are insurances that will insure your accessories like saddlebags and other stuff for just a bit more per year. Being insured will give you a good feeling when you are cruising down the road. The money you pay for this kind of insurance is nothing compares to your car. And for such a low premium you get the best coverage.
Nowadays you can go online on the internet and ask for a quote at different companies. You will just have to fill out an online form to get a quote in you e-mail inbox or even directly on the web page. From the comfort of your own home as they say.
When you take out an insurance on your moped you will have to license it and that means you will have to pay that as well. But the thought of driving down the route without having to worry if what you do is legal or not should make up for that. There are some states where a teenager has to have insurance to even drive on the road. You can find insurances for as low as $100 so the price should not keep you from doing so.
When you are looking at companies that you can use you should be aware of the fact that there can be hidden costs, so always ask if the quote is covering everything and that there will not be any extra charges afterwards. Maybe ask your friends and family if they have any experience with the company you have an eye on or if they know any firm where they have their mopeds insured.
In the end it is always the best thing you could do, having a moped insurance. You never know what can happen on those roads these days and the thought that you are covered for any thing is a pleasant one. If you are ever involved in an accident there is a company you can fall back upon to handle all the legal affairs.
The best thing of course is to drive safely and to never have any cause or need to make use of your insurance.

The first thing you should do when you even start to think about buying a moped is start by checking the local laws. The next thing, after really buying the moped, is to go and license it as well. The money should not really be an issue because the insurance costs for mopeds is really low. And except for the cost the insurance doesn’t differ that much from a motorcycle one. You should check online, there you can find some good insurance deals for mopeds. Mopeds are liked by thieves as well as something they can sell very easily but for just a fraction of the cost you can insure yourself against it. Getting some discount You should have a good look around before you pick your moped insurance there are a lot of companies that are offering discounts and promos. Another thing to look for are insurances that will insure your accessories like saddlebags and other stuff for just a bit more per year. Being insured will give you a good feeling when you are cruising down the road. The money you pay for this kind of insurance is nothing compares to your car. And for such a low premium you get the best coverage. Nowadays you can go online on the internet and ask for a quote at different companies. You will just have to fill out an online form to get a quote in you e-mail inbox or even directly on the web page. From the comfort of your own home as they say. When you take out an insurance on your moped you will have to license it and that means you will have to pay that as well. But the thought of driving down the route without having to worry if what you do is legal or not should make up for that. There are some states where a teenager has to have insurance to even drive on the road. You can find insurances for as low as £100 so the price should not keep you from doing so. When you are looking at companies that you can use you should be aware of the fact that there can be hidden costs, so always ask if the quote is covering everything and that there will not be any extra charges afterwards. Maybe ask your friends and family if they have any experience with the company you have an eye on or if they know any firm where they have their mopeds insured. In the end it is always the best thing you could do, having a moped insurance. You never know what can happen on those roads these days and the thought that you are covered for any thing is a pleasant one. If you are ever involved in an accident there is a company you can fall back upon to handle all the legal affairs. The best thing of course is to drive safely and to never have any cause or need to make use of your insurance.

On-road or off-road, two wheels or four, there’s a ton of fun to be had in the recreational vehicles we offer at Bikes R Hot. From scooters and mopeds to ATVs , quads , dirt bikes and even dune buggies , our products all have a couple of key things in common: the amazing ability to facilitate fun and adventure, and the savings they generate during and after their purchase. And in the case of our stylish mopeds and scooters you’ll be riding high while being environmentally conscious at the same time. What other excuses do you need to out of the car and onto the best transportation for your dollar courtesy of mopeds and scooters from the most recognized manufacturers in the business?

Not only are our mopeds and scooters fun to ride, but they also offer savings on fuel, taxes, registration, and licensing fees. Plus we delivery them right to your door! Such great savings across the board proves that it pays not to buy retail, and that you can get what you want without paying big bucks. From our 50cc models that are perfect for buzzing about down all the way up to 260cc models perfect for highway cruising, we offer a variety of scooters in a number of shapes and sizes; one of which is no doubt perfect for your needs.

What sets the scooters and mopeds we carry apart? The fact that we only carry products that feature advanced technology and cutting edge design. A prime example is our TBX 260cc model, the number one selling Moped on the market today. Equipped with an upgraded super-sized suspension for better handling, five spoke wheels designed for higher cruising speeds, the ability to give you 75-80 MPG, and the best backed one year warranty in the industry, it is a Moped that aspires to something higher. As are all of our Mopeds and Scooters, many of which were manufactured at the Znen Power Sports Factory and which also feature dual stage paint in a variety of color options and gas mileage up to 100 MPG depending on the model.

Up your fun quotient and save a ton of money by choosing from the amazing inventory of Scooters and Mopeds available to you. Or choose from any of the other amazing two-wheel and four-wheel vehicles we have in store. It’s all about family fun and big savings, not to mention the ride of your life!

Riding a moped is fun but even a low speed fall can result in serious injury. In Virginia in 2007, there were 266 moped crashes which resulted in 8 deaths and 229 rider injuries. If you are considering a moped for daily use, you should also consider these important safety tips to protect yourself.
In Virginia, you must be over 16 and you cannot ride on sidewalks or bike paths.
Wear bright or reflective clothing to maximize your visibility at night.
Wear a DOT, ANSI, OR Snell-approved helmet which are designed with hard outer shells and a retention system to protect the head and the brain in a variety of impacts. In 2006, 41% of those killed in crashes were not wearing a helmet.
If your helmet is not equipped with a face shield, wear goggles or glasses with plastic lenses to protect your eyes against insects, wind, dirt, rocks, or other airborne matter.
Wear elbow and knee pads.
Wear slip-resistant shoes and avoid wearing sandals, flip-flops or shoes with laces.
Ride with the flow of traffic.
Obey the speed limits and never travel faster than your skill level or than the conditions allow.
Know how to use hand signals and signal well before you make a turn or lane change.
Use extra caution at intersections, parking lot entrances and exits, and driveways.
Avoid hitting road hazards, such as sharp bumps and holes in the road surface. These hazards can cause loss of control or damage.
Be especially conscious of traffic from behind.
Check with your DMV to find out where local safety classes are being held.
Keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the floorboards while riding.
Virginia law requires that while operating a moped on the highway, you ride as close as practical to the right curb/edge of the roadway.
Ride in the traffic lane only when you are passing, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding a hazard, pedestrian, or animal in your way. Pull back over to the right as soon as you safely can.
When operating between sunset and sunrise, mopeds must be equipped with a headlight and a red rear reflector visible at night.
Do not carry a passenger unless the moped is equipped with a passenger seat and footpegs.
Use extreme care when mounting accessories and riding with cargo.
Never leave your moped unattended with the engine running.
Pass vehicles with extreme care.
Keep your headlights on both day and night.
Reduce your speed when riding over bumpy roads.
Check your mirror and blind spot frequently.
Use caution when riding in bus traffic and watch out for buses pulling to and from curbs and passengers getting on and off buses
Do not block sidewalks, handicap and building accesses, or emergency drives when parking your moped.
You should follow all of these general moped tips, but keep in mind that this checklist is not completely exhaustive and you should check with your state DMV for state specific rules.

Moped and Scooter owners know that they are a superb mode of transport for getting around in the city and urban areas. They are mainly very low powered so are an extremely cheap mode of transport. In Europe and particularly in the UK the moped and scooter is mainly owned by 16 to 20 year olds and are usually a stepping stone to a larger motorcycle.
There are also a lot of European countries such as Spain, France and Greece where you can hire a moped or scooter and need very little in the way of paperwork other than a driving license to hire it, however you tend to see the accident and emergency rooms at the local hospitals bugling with un-savvy motorcyclists who have misjudged the local roads and traffic.
Most moped’s are limited to 35 mph yet it is common for teenagers to tune them so they can achieve high speeds and decibels. In the cities the noise can be deafening, especially in the tourist resorts where they pour out of the clubs at 5 in the morning and echo through the narrow streets.
If you are looking at moped and scooter brochures take your time and make a wish list of the specification and extras you would really like to have and then scour the internet and local dealers crossing off what you cant afford. You need to also bear in mind the legal moped and scooter age requirements of in the country you are living. The other option is to look at the classifieds as there are often bargains to be had as riders upgrade to larger bikes.
For any moped and scooter rider the one thing that should be considered first is insurance as there is a high chance that you will need it at some time make sure it is covered fully comprehensive for theft, damage and also for if you are involved in an accident. There are a few companies online who specialise in moped and scooter insurance.
Owning a moped or a scooter has a lot of advantages it gives you freedom from being stuck in long traffic jams, they are far more environmental friendly and they are extremely cheap to run in fact there are electric scooters now which cost as little as 0.3p per mile to run.
Safety is the biggest consideration for riders, make sure you purchase a decent helmet and don’t ride in shorts and sandals in the summer as they offer no protection should you have a spill. Check your with your local police station as they will be ale to recommend a training school where you can be taught the correct way to ride and look after your moped and scooter