How Much Is a Moped Scooter?

If you want to find out more about Fuzion scooters, we have an article that you should check out. Today, we have decided to provide you with a clear answer to the question how much is a moped. We have analyzed the price of new and second hand units and we have made a list of the difference in cost between a moped and a car.

Scooter vs mopeds

Before we get to analyze the price of a moped, we believe that it is important for us to make the distinction between scooters and mopeds clear. This is necessary, as numerous inexperienced buyers tend to confuse these two vehicles because both of them are constructed to feature a relatively small motor. However, there are a couple of differences that you should be aware of.

First things first, a scooter has an easy to recognize step-through chassis and a practical footrest platform. Scooters are normally powered by small motors that vary in size from 50 to 650 cc. Almost all vehicles of this type have small-diameter, 10-inch wheels. Different from moped riders, scooter users have to have a license and they have to register their vehicle.

On the other hand, mopeds look a lot like bikes. The difference is that they use a motor. Yet, they are equipped with pedals that you can utilize as well. The name of this vehicle, moped, is a combination of the words motor and pedal. 

In most countries, a vehicle that has less than 49 ccs and two wheels is called a moped. Users do not have to have a license to ride it.

New vs. second hand

The biggest decision that you have to make when considering the possibility of buying a moped is whether or not you want to buy a new or a second hand one. If you want to invest in a new unit, the prices start at around 700 dollars. If you have decided to opt for a second-hand choice, you will most probably pay less than that. 

Yet, you have to pay extra attention to how the vehicle was maintained and to whether or not it comes provided with all the necessary documentation. The biggest advantage of buying a used unit is that the price will be significantly lower. This happens because the value of a product of this kind drops rather easily.

Still, acquiring a used item also comes with a handful of disadvantages that you should also be familiar with. For once, your new acquisition will not come supplied with high-quality technological innovations and it will not be provided with a warranty policy. This should not be an issue if you decide to use the moped for commuting.

Do you need insurance for a moped?

The answer to this question is most likely no. At the current time, owners of mopeds do not need insurance in 26 states.

If you do not have the means to purchase the moped in cash and you plan on getting a credit or a lease, chances are that you will be asked to insure the moped.

According to the specialists, you can still buy insurance for your vehicle even if the law does not require you to. This way, you will be covered in case your moped is vandalized, stolen, or involved in an accident.

Car vs. moped

One of the easiest ways to assess the costs of owning a moped is by comparing them with the costs of owning a car. One of the first aspects that you should have in mind in gas mileage. In general, a 50cc moped will get you around 100 miles per gallon. In other words, 5 times more than an average car. 

So, if you own a moped with a 50cc motor, you will only pay around 20 dollars a month for gas. By comparison, a car driver has to pay around 60 dollars monthly. 

Plus, in the case of a two-wheeler, you will probably be able to purchase the vehicle in cash. So, you won’t have to pay monthly fees. The same is not often true in the case of a car.

Insurance wise, as we have mentioned earlier, riders do not have to buy insurance for their mopeds in most states. In the case of cars, the monthly insurance is around 30 and 60 dollars, depending on the state.

Advantages of using a moped

As our previous analysis has demonstrated, using a moped is quite affordable, and, consequently, a good alternative for those who are on a budget. On top of that, current commuters that use vehicles of this sort on a daily basis have noted that it is significantly easier to find a parking space when riding a moped. 

This aspect comes in handy especially if you are always in a rush and cannot be bothered with looking for a place to park. Next, a moped is easy to tow. For instance, if you like to travel in an RV during the summer, you can attach a moped to it without having to purchase specialized equipment.

After taking into account all the opinions expressed by moped users, the biggest advantage of a device of this sort is its versatility. Purchasing a model of this type can make you more active and it can provide you with the flexibility that you need when living a busy life.

Disadvantages of owning a moped

As expected, the biggest drawback is safety. Just like in the case of riding a motorcycle or a scooter, when on a moped you have to be alert at all times. To make your commute as safe as possible, it is also recommended that you purchase the necessary safety equipment.

Furthermore, space might also be an issue. If you like doing lots of shopping, a moped might not be the right choice for you, as you won’t be able to transport, for instance, bags and bags of groceries, when riding it. Still, if you intend to use it simply for commuting to and from your office-based job, this aspect might not qualify as a problem for you.

Because most mopeds have a 50cc motor, you will not be able to use your vehicle on highways. This will mean that, in some cases, you will have to travel on alternative routes to get to the desired location. If you do not want to face this limitation, it might be a good idea to look for a motorcycle instead.

As some experts have noted, using a moped implies using protective gear. As you might already know, gear is not, by no means low-costing. On top of that, you should not compromise and purchase cheap equipment. After all, your safety is more important than the amount of money that you have to pay for a helmet.

A handful of previous moped users have also noted that it can be uncomfortable to travel over long distances. Any ride that lasts for more than two hours will, most likely, feel uncomfortable to any rider, no matter his/her level of experience. To get over this issue, it is recommended that you take breaks from time to time. This way, you will get the chance to stretch. 

The verdict

After assessing all the points that we have made in this article, it seems like a moped is an affordable alternative to a car, especially for those who are short on money and who are looking for a simple way to commute to and from their office job.

However, before you make any investments, you should spend some time thinking about whether or not a vehicle of this sort is the right option for you. If your office is far away from your home, and you have to travel on the highway to get there, a moped is not necessarily a great choice. 

Plus, if you always have to look presentable at your job, you should take into account the fact that, on rainy days, you will probably end up soaked and that you’ll need a change of clothes. If these extra issues do not bother you, feel free to start shopping, as we are sure that you’ll be able to find a vehicle that suits your expectations.

Before you select any item, we highly recommend that you take it for a ride so that you can see whether or not you find it comfortable. Plus, it wouldn’t hurt to go online and read the comments left by previous owners.