Comparison of Mopeds and Scooters

Mopeds often have slower speeds and look more like motorcycles.

Mopeds and scooters offer an alternative mode of transportation to cars, bicycles and public transport. While these vehicles may appear similar, they have differences that you should be aware of before you start shopping for one.

Appearance

A moped has the appearance of a motorcycle in many ways. Additionally, mopeds have pedals, which make transportation easier until the engine starts. Scooters have a similar appearance to "crotch-rocket" motorcycles. Unlike the motorcycle, however, the scooter has a place for your feet directly in front of you. You sit on a scooter, as opposed to straddling it.

Engine Size

Mopeds don't have engines more powerful than 50 cc. Scooters, however, range in engine sizes from a small 50 cc engine to the 850 cc engine in the Gilera GP800 scooter. This is the most powerful engine on the market.

Legalities

Mopeds do not require an additional license. Because these vehicles do not go faster than 35 to 40 mph, they cannot be legally driven on freeways and interstates. A scooter, however, requires the rider to hold a motorcycle license for any engine size over 50 cc. Depending on the engine size, scooters may be driven on freeways and interstates.

References

• MotorScooterShopper.com: Mopeds and Scooters -- What's the Difference?