How to Operate a Moped
Although similar to scooters and motorcycles, mopeds are equipped with a pair of bicycle-type pedals and a low-powered motor. This motor, unlike the moped's larger cousins, is designed to drive the moped forward for short distances rather than powering the vehicle at all times. The very nature of a moped makes it an economical form of transportation without the need for a special motorcycle license, and in some cases, the need for insurance and registration. But how does one ride a moped?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Sit on the moped and place the key in the ignition switch. Turn on the fuel valve, or petcock, and place the kill switch on the right handlebar into the "ON" position.
-
2
Start the moped's motor by swiftly kicking one of the moped's pedals through a full arc until the motor starts. Lift the moped off of its kickstand with your left foot.
-
-
3
Roll the throttle grip backwards slowly to partially open the throttle. Place your feet on the foot pedals as you begin to roll forward. Roll the throttle grip back further to increase your speed.
-
4
Decelerate slightly by rolling the throttle grip forward, closing the throttle. With the throttle closed, you can coast for a short distance but will gradually slow to a stop.
-
5
Brake to slow or stop the moped. Gently pull in the brake lever on the right handlebar to apply the front brake, steadily increasing pressure on the lever to increase the brake's stopping ability. Pull in the left brake lever to apply the rear brake. Pull in both brake levers simultaneously, increasing pressure on the levers steadily to come to a stop in a shorter distance. In most cases, you will not use the rear brake by itself.
-
6
Switch between high and low headlight beams using the rocker switch on the left handlebar. Activate your turn signals with the toggle switch on the left handlebar. Sound the moped's horn by pressing the horn button on the left handlebar. All actions should be done with the thumb of your left hand.
-
7
Decelerate to a complete stop, rolling the throttle forward and applying both brakes, applying increasing pressure on the levers. Using your right thumb, flip the kill switch into the "OFF" position. Lower the kickstand with your left foot and settle the moped onto it. Turn the fuel valve to the "OFF" position and remove the ignition key.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Always wear proper eye protection and a helmet when riding your moped.
References
- "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Motorcycles;" Darwin Holmstrom; 2001
Resources
- Photo Credit Pixland/Pixland/Getty Images
