We run down the best electric mopeds you can buy, ranging from some mainstream models to some not-so-well-known names
Electric mopeds are set to play a big part in the future of urban transport. Restrictions on private cars in city centres are already gathering pace: in the UK, Oxford and Bristol have joined London in charging petrol and diesel cars to enter. That means we’ll have to find alternatives, and e-mopeds will be part of the mix, along with bicycles (both pedal-powered and electrically assisted), kick scooters, ride-sharing and public transport.
So what’s available? Not so long ago, there were just a few feeble electric mopeds aimed at the likes of Uber Eats riders – plus BMW’s C-Evolution. But these days, there’s a new generation of smarter e-bikes capable of zipping silently up to 50 or 60mph, and packing bigger batteries for a much better range. Highlights include the Bluetooth-enabled Niu and the bargain-basement Lexmoto Yadea. Big names are getting in on the act, too, with Vespa and Honda both launching electric scooters.
When buying, look for a battery warranty of two to three years and qualification for the government plug-in vehicle grant. The top trend at the moment is for smaller twin batteries rather than one big one, enabling them to be lifted out for recharging – important if you live on the seventh floor of an apartment block!
Silence – from £2,695
Silence (pictured top) has been making electric mopeds since 2013 and the brand is now back on sale in the UK, with a range of four bikes from the 50cc-equivalent S01 to the 125cc-equivalent S02, offering up to 62mph from a 9kW motor, 5.6kWh battery and claimed 80-mile range. It reckons the S02 will sprint from 0-30mph in 3.9 seconds, while the top Long Range variant claims 91 miles on a charge.
The Silences are aimed at delivery services as well as commuters, and all can carry a rider and passenger, with quick release lift-out batteries for recharging from any 240V supply. There’s also an on-board SIM to communicate with a phone app, while all models feature regenerative braking, to put a little energy back into the battery when slowing down. Warranty is a decent three years. We’ve seen the factory (which, unusually, builds its own batteries) just outside Barcelona – this is one of the few European-made electric mopeds.
SEAT MÓ eScooter 125 – from £4,996
The MÓ eScooter125 represents the car brand’s first foray into electrified two-wheeled transport, aimed at both private buyers and fleet operators. Power comes from a 12bhp electric motor inside the rear wheel; 0-31mph takes 3.9 seconds and top speed is 59mph. A 5.6kWh battery feeds the motor and is good for a range of 85 miles according to SEAT; the firm reckons only a weekly charge will be required in most cases.
Charging can take place at a public point or at home, where the scooter‘s battery can be removed and charged overnight from a three-pin socket. Fleet operators will be able to swap a charged battery in for a flat one, minimising turnaround times. The scooter also features regenerative braking and a reverse gear. Pulling the left-hand brake applies the brakes on both wheels, while pulling the right-hand brake only applies the front but engages the regenerative braking – amplifying the braking effect and recharging the battery.
Lexmoto Yadea – from £1,700
Lexmoto offers the cheapest electric moped on the UK market – that is, the cheapest one from a well established brand with a proper dealer network, rather than a random online seller. Based near Exeter, this high-volume importer outsells everyone else in the 50cc and 125cc petrol markets, and in late 2020 it launched a range of electric mopeds.
The G5 model we rode (actually costing £1,900) has everything you would expect from a modern electric moped. The battery hides under the floor but easily lifts out for charging – it’ll also charge in situ. There’s a big tablet sized dashboard with big clear battery level gauge, a low charge warning light, and estimated remaining range (so there’s no excuse for running out) with a clock. The rear hub motor does away with the need for a drive belt, and pushes the Yadea up to its 28mph top speed reasonably quickly.
In town, a loud ding-dong from the indicators warns pedestrians that you’re coming and the Yadea is Bluetooth-enabled to hook up with your phone, although the UK isn’t getting the relevant app, or not yet at least. Charging is a slow six to eight hours and Lexmoto claims a modest 35-mile range. At £1,700 though, the Yadea undercuts all the opposition and will be cheaper to run than any petrol scooter.
Niu Mqi Sport – from £2,156
Niu isn’t exactly a household name, but it has created a little niche for itself as one of the smarter electric moped makers. The Mqi Sport is one of latest variants on the theme, a moped limited to 28mph, but Niu also offers it in faster form with a 3Kw motor, claimed 60-mile range and 47mph top speed, which makes it easily quick enough to keep up with urban traffic.
Claimed ranges of electric mopeds can be about as accurate as the fuel-economy aspirations of ICE cars. One Niu we rode in 2019 it lived up to its official figure – the test bike had 35% battery left after 44 miles, so we were heading for a credible 65 miles to empty. The faster Nius have two batteries, both of which can be charged in situ or taken indoors to plug in. A full charge from flat takes 3.5 hours according to Niu, and the battery warranty runs to three years/20,000 miles, which is good.
Bluetooth is one of the Niu’s selling points – it links to your smartphone to show GPS, real-time diagnostics and an anti-theft alert – but the moped won’t swallow a week’s worth of shopping because all the under-seat space is filled with battery. At £2,156 after the government’s Plug-In Grant, the Mqi is well priced.
Zapp i300 Carbon – from £7,950
The Zapp i300 is not exactly undersold. It’s designed in Britain, with production now getting underway in Thailand, and its publicity refers to superbike-type acceleration and riding dynamics. five patent applications relating to motorcycle fundamentals and 50 new-to-industry advanced features. The motor is a ‘Super Twister’ and the two batteries are ‘Turbo Twins.’
Behind the hype, the Zapp really is a high-performance moped. The motor offers 14kW and a massive 587Nm of torque, backing up official claims of 0-50kph in 2.3 seconds and 0-100kph in 4.9 seconds – this is true motorcycle performance, although top speed is limited to 60mph. The chassis has a superbike flavour, too, with two-sensor ABS, fully adjustable suspension at both ends and a distinctive exoskeleton frame.
The twin batteries (sorry, can’t call them Turbo Twins) are very small and light, giving a range of only 37 miles. But Zapp reckons that with average European city daily mileage being only 12 miles, that’s enough, and the smaller batteries are easier to carry up to the office or flat for a recharge. Zapps are sold direct online, with annual servicing performed at the owner’s home by, wait for it. ‘Zappers’.
Cezeta – £TBC
Do you like retro? Who doesn’t, but the Cezeta isn’t some ersatz copy. Instead, it’s a faithful reproduction of an original Czech-made scooter from the late 1950s. Over 100,000 of these were sold across the Eastern Bloc from 1957-64 and in 2017 its Sputnik styling was reborn with an electric motor in place of the old 175cc two-stroke.
Production is strictly limited to around 50 per year in the Czech Republic, and the first series has sold out, though Cezeta is now taking orders for the second series, with production expected in mid-2021. Underneath the composite bodywork is a galvanised steel frame, disc brakes and a choice of motors giving 5.7kW to 9.2kW with batteries of 4kWh, 6kWh or 8.5kWh.
We haven’t tested the Cezeta, but the maker claims top speeds of 52mph to 75mph and ranges of 52-105 miles, depending on the motor and battery combination selected. All can be ridden on an A1 licence, so you won’t need a full motorcycle licence to ride one, just your CBT, theory and practical tests. The Cezeta isn’t cheap but it’s a unique machine that’ll certainly turn heads. And if you’re still not sure about buying one, there’s always the option of taking a trip to Prague and hiring one for a weekend.
Vespa Elettrica – from £5,040
A Vespa is the ultimate moped for many, and 18 million have been sold since the original was launched in 1946. Modern incarnations are still being made in Italy and the Elettrica was added in early 2019. Outwardly, it could be mistaken for a petrol Vespa (apart from some subtle blue pinstriping and lack of an exhaust) but underneath it’s very different.
The 50 or 125cc petrol motor is replaced by a 4kW electric motor (which is quite beefy for what is a moped-class bike) and generously sized 4.2kWh battery. So although the standard Elettrica is limited to 28-30mph, it gets up to speed pretty quickly and holds it up hills, something not all mopeds can manage. There’s also a faster 45mph version, which costs only £300 more. And being a Vespa, the dynamics are good – it’s light and manoeuvrable, quick to steer and easy to ride, plus has the Vespa heritage.
The TFT dash will integrate with your smartphone via the Vespa app, which enables you to make or receive calls, and has a sat nav and various other goodies. As you’d expect, the battery can be charged in situ or lifted out. The Elettrica is one of the most expensive electric mopeds on the market (the price here is after the Plug-in Grant), but it’s undeniably stylish.
Honda Benly e: – from £5,074
It took years for the world’s leading motorcycle manufacturer to finally launch an electric moped, and this is it. The Benly e: went on sale in Japan only, aimed squarely as small businesses such as fast food delivery, and there’s no sign of it coming to the UK. It’s a fairly conventional delivery moped, with flat luggage platforms front and rear plus a reverse assist feature for getting out of tight spots. The twin swappable batteries are small (1kWh each) and must be returned to Honda for recycling when they reach the end of their lives.
The Benly e: comes in e:1 (moped equivalent) and e:II (5.7PS) forms, both available in basic or ‘pro’ spec, the latter bringing a front basket, rear carrier, hand protectors and footbrake. With those small batteries the range is limited, Honda quoting about 55 miles at 18mph for the e:1 and about 26 miles for the e:II. That’s not much, but these smaller power packs reduce weight and cost, while business customers will have spare batteries on hand for Rapid swaps.
Super Soco CPX – from £3,599
Super Soco isn’t a household name in the UK yet, but it’s Smart little motorcycle-style electric bikes sell like hot cakes, topping the electric two-wheel charts for two years running. The range now includes the CUX moped, which features a built-in camera to record your commute and the CPX, a bigger 125cc-equivalent scooter built for longer commutes.
Physically bigger than the Niu, it should carry two people comfortably. With a 4kW rear hub motor delivering 171Nm, it tops out at 56mph and has a claimed range of 44 miles, or 87 miles for the optional twin-battery set up. Keep to a steady 25mph and Super Soco claims you can ride up to 112 miles.
There are convenient touches like a reverse function, LED headlight and a USB charge point. As with an increasing number of electric mopeds, the battery can be recharged on or off the bike – Super Soco reckons a full charge takes 3.5 hours and the battery has an excellent four-year warranty.
Rieju Nuuk – from £6,199
Best described as a moped/motorcycle hybrid, the Nuuk has the lowish step-through and smallish wheels of a moped, but the exposed frame, inverted forks and 280mm front disc brake of a motorcycle. With the option of a big luggage box to replace the passenger seat. it’s aimed at commercial fleets as much as private customers.
It’s made in Spain by Rieju, a long-established maker of small motorcycles. The Nuuk comes in 28mph moped or 70mph motorcycle form, the latter with a 10.5kW motor, and the standard claimed range is 70 miles or 50 miles respectively, although extra batteries can boost the the distance.
Batteries can be quickly accessed for swapping or recharging. Standard charging takes five hours, although there’s a fast-charge option of 1.2 hours. The Nuuk is different – it lacks weather protection and (unless you pay extra for the top box) any luggage room – but it’s an interesting addition to the market.
Artisan – from £2,636
Artisan is one of the pioneers of electric scooters, available in the UK for five years and starting out with a low price and low tech lead-acid batteries. It has since progressed to the industry standard lithium-ion cells and the price has gone up, but it’s still one of the cheaper options. Artisan also offers a tilting three-wheel moped aimed at fast food deliveries.
If you like faux-Vespa styling then you’ll love the Artisan. The cognoscenti will notice that the bodywork is plastic (not metal, like a genuine Vespa) and that there’s a bit too much chrome, but it does come in a wide choice of colours (seat as well as bodywork). This is a moped-class scooter, so it’s limited to 28mph, which can feel vulnerable on a busy road, but that’s endemic to all mopeds, whether electric or 50cc petrols.
Claimed range is just 25 miles, but the good news is that the battery lifts out for indoor charging and a second battery (£500 extra) slots in beside it to extend the range. Two and three-year battery warranties are becoming the norm, so the Artisan’s 12-month cover is a bit thin. But then, it is still the budget option.
recently, Artisan has added the ES1-PRO SuperMoto-style bike and an inner-city EVC 48mph scooter. In 2020, Artisan became the UK and Ireland importer and partner for Horwin Global, bringing to market the CR6. This was followed in 2021 with the EK3 and EK1. September 2021 saw the introduction of the Horwin CR6 Pro – the first five-speed manual electric motorbike with a traditional clutch.
Note: We’ve used ‘moped’ here as the generic term, as ‘scooter’ can be confused with stand-up scooters. Legally, ‘mopeds’ refer only to the smallest machines, limited to 28mph.
Best Electric Mopeds of 2023
The electric moped is a versatile personal electric transport with minimal maintenance costs. This type of transport has gained popularity among both young and elderly drivers. But there is a wide range of e-mopeds, varying in price and characteristics.
It is important to determine the scope of use when choosing the best electric moped for adults as the right kind of transport. For commute or short trips to the shop fits a small scooter on a small volume electric motor. If you plan frequent use for long distances, the ideal option would be a high-power engine with a fast charge. Pay attention to the positive and negative sides while selecting a particular model.
We have compiled a list of the best electric mopeds, based on expert evaluations and owners’ reviews. Our recommendations will help you make the best pick that is optimal for your requirements and desires. There are many competitors in the global market, but we have selected the best manufacturers and recommend you turn your mind to them.
Now, in 2023, exist quite vigorous electric mopeds on the market, capable of easily going their 90 km/h, with a good range and quite advanced on the technical side. Vespa has released a fast version of Elettrica, Chinese Super Soco promise to release CPX with a range of 135 km and a maximum speed of almost 90 km/h. They already have a TC Max with a maximum speed of 96 km/h, but it is more of a motorcycle than a moped.
| Electric Moped | Motor | Battery | Range | Charge Time | Price |
| Sur-Ron Storm Bee | 22,5 kW (30.2 HP) | 18650 Lithium | 62 miles / 100 km | 3 hours | coming soon |
| Greenvolt Mobility Mantis | 250 W (0.3 HP) | LiFePo4 (LFP) | 31 miles / 50 km | 2,5 hours | 478 |
| Honda EV Cub | 3 kW (4 HP) | LiFePo4 (LFP) | 62 miles / 100 km | 1 hour | 3780 |
| Yamaha EC-05 | 6.4 kW (8.6 HP) | 18650 Lithium | 68 miles / 110 km | 2,5 hours | 3504 |
| Vespa Elettrica | 4 kW (5.4 HP) | LiFePo4 (LFP) | 75 miles (25 mph) | 4 hours | 7548 |
| Super Soco TC | 3 kW (4 HP) | 18650 Lithium | 99 miles / 160 km | 5 hours | 3850 |
| Segway Dirt eBike X260 | 5 kW (6.7 HP) | 18650 Lithium | 75 miles / 120 km | 4,5 hours | 4499 |
| Ariel Rider X-Class 52V | 2 kW (2.7 HP) | 18650 Lithium | 75 miles / 120 km | 4-6 hours | 1799 |
| Sondors MadMods | 750 watt (1 HP) | 18650 Lithium | 60 miles / 97 km | 2 hours | 1499 |
| Moto Parilla Carbon Mimetica | 750 watt (1 HP) | LiFePo4 (LFP) | 50 miles / 80 km | 8 hours | 7569 |
What is an electric moped?
Electric mopeds are structurally very similar to gasoline mopeds. Their main difference is the presence of an electric power system. Thus, electric mopeds have a relatively small diameter of wheels. Also, electric mopeds have special pedals, can be equipped with a lockable and quite voluminous luggage compartment.
It is worth noting that some electric moped models are equipped with an alarm system, which helps to prevent the theft of the vehicle.
The battery capacity is usually designed for 40-60 km. Most models are equipped with systems that charge the battery when the electric moped goes downhill.
It takes 5-8 hours to fully charge the battery. Often the batteries are removable, which is convenient for storage and charging.
Electric moped speed is not inferior to gasoline counterparts – 50 km/hr.
Also, most models of electric mopeds are equipped with a quality durable waterproof housing, which perfectly protects the electronics of the device.
As a rule, electric mopeds from almost all manufacturers have the same equipment. For example, the electric moped comes with a charger, high-capacity battery, 2 mirrors, pedals, special alloy wheels, and a service book. Also, depending on the model, the set may include a luggage basket, which is installed in front of an electric bike, rear trunk, and so on.
At the customer’s request, electric moped can be delivered as fully assembled, adjusted, and ready for use, and in its original packaging.
Features of electric mopeds
Electric mopeds tend to have a standard mileage. Thus, the battery installed in them is sufficient for 40-60 km. It is worth remembering that the efficiency of batteries available on electric mopeds can be reduced at low and high ambient temperatures, which leads to a reduction in range.
Any electric moped is equipped with a special electric motor wheel. The maximum speed of any electric moped is directly related to its power. For example, an electric moped with a capacity of 800 watts can accelerate to a speed of 50 km / h, an electric moped with a capacity of 2.2 kW – up to 80 km / h. It is worth noting that an electric moped with a power of more than 1500 watts can be equated to a gasoline moped, because a device of such power can easily go up any mountain, moving at the same time two passengers!
Some people think that 40 km of mileage from one charge is not enough. This is also not a problem. It is only worthwhile to buy another battery and replace them, which will increase the range by 2 times. Also today there are models of electric mopeds with mileage from one battery charge of 70 km. As a rule, the mileage of 40 km is quite enough for a comfortable long ride around town without any particular inconvenience.
What to do when the battery runs out on the road? You will need to find the first available power outlet and charge your electric moped for at least 30 minutes. That amount of power will be enough to get you to your destination. Much worse, if you run out of gasoline on the way, which is not easy to find. Everyone has an ordinary outlet.
Electric mopeds advantages
Using an electric moped saves a lot of funds because it does not require refueling, filling and changing oil, complex maintenance. Electric mopeds have a low very comfortable seating position. The electronics installed onboard the vehicle has reliable protection – a waterproof high-strength housing is installed.
Electric mopeds are equipped with a powerful motor wheel and have excellent speed ratings. As a rule, electric mopeds have an alarm system with a locking drive wheel. Many electric moped models are equipped with a waterproof, very capacious luggage compartment. Electric mopeds are highly maneuverable on any surface and road.
Electric moped buyer’s guide
Range
Most electric mopeds have a limited range, typically between 10 and 40 miles on a single charge. If you plan on using your electric moped for short commutes or trips around town, then this range should be more than enough. However, if you’ll be traveling farther distances on your electric moped, then you may want to consider purchasing a model with a larger battery and greater range. It’s important to note that the actual distance an electric moped can travel will also depend on factors such as terrain, speed, weight of the rider and wind resistance.
Performance
When it comes to performance, electric mopeds come with a variety of power and torque specs. Electric motors typically provide more torque than gasoline engines, so you should be able to get up to speed quickly on the road. Some models offer higher power ratings for faster acceleration and top speeds. You’ll also want to consider how the electric moped handles hills and other inclines. If you’ll be riding in hilly or mountainous terrain, then you’ll want a model with enough power to climb hills without too much difficulty.
Pricing
Electric mopeds usually cost more than traditional gas-powered mopeds, but they can still be an affordable form of transportation. Generally speaking, electric mopeds range in price from around 800 to upwards of 2,000. The cost will depend largely on features such as battery size and motor power output.
Maintenance
One benefit of electric mopeds is that they require minimal maintenance compared to gas-powered models. An electric moped’s only moving parts are the motor and its associated components, so there won’t be any need to check or change oil or other fluids. However, it’s still important to perform regular maintenance on your electric moped, such as cleaning and lubricating the chain, inspecting brakes and tires, checking battery levels, etc.
Safety
Electric mopeds offer a number of safety benefits compared to traditional gas-powered mopeds. For example, the lack of emissions reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and the quiet operation helps reduce traffic noise. Electric mopeds also have regenerative braking systems that help slow down the moped when coming to a stop. Finally, electric mopeds typically come with built-in lights and turn signals, providing you with the visibility and awareness that you need while riding at night or in low-light conditions.
FAQ
What is the range of an electric moped?
The range of an electric moped can vary significantly, depending on factors such as terrain, speed, weight of the rider and wind resistance. Generally speaking, most models offer a range between 10 and 40 miles on a single charge.
Is an electric moped more expensive than a gas-powered moped?
Electric mopeds are usually more expensive than traditional gas-powered models, but they can still be an affordable form of transportation for many people. typically range from around 800 to upwards of 2,000.
Does an electric moped require maintenance?
Despite the lack of moving parts, electric mopeds still need regular maintenance such as cleaning and lubricating the chain, inspecting brakes and tires, checking battery levels, etc. This type of maintenance is less involved than what’s required for gas-powered models.
Are electric mopeds safe?
Electric mopeds offer several safety benefits compared to traditional gas-powered models. These include the lack of emissions, quiet operation, regenerative braking systems and built-in lights and turn signals. When riding an electric moped, it’s still important to practice proper safety measures such as wearing a helmet and following traffic laws.
Electric Mopeds for Adults
Looking to buy a 50cc moped? Or perhaps buying your very first scooter? Let us run through some of the options out there, including electric alternatives you may never have heard of.
Electric Mopeds or Scooters are a great alternative to a car, or a petrol scooter for exploring the city and commuting to and from work. Costing just pennies to run, they are gaining popularity thanks to their cheap costs, environmental credentials and fun driving style.
Able to cut through traffic faster than a car or taxi, they are far quieter and electric motors give faster acceleration than a petrol equivalent, too.
Electric vs Petrol Mopeds Scooters. Costs
Most rough estimates put it at about 60p to charge a standard electric moped battery for a 50 mile range.
Even with petrol scooters achieving 90. 120mpg, at £1.65 a litre a 50 mile journey would cost you over £4 to complete!
(£1.60 4.54 = £7.26 for 1 gallon, or £7.26 for 90 miles range, or 8p a mile) Comparatively, to charge a NIU batteries which are around 2100Wh, will take 2.1kWh of energy to charge.
For the UK, the average price per kWh in 2022 is around 28p. To fill an electric battery is 282.1 = 59p, or under 1p a mile.
And if you’re commuting, you can recharge your electric moped at work for free!
Another big benefit of electric mopeds is reduced maintenance. The main component that will need replacing are the brakes. They are also tax free and a lot quieter. No oil, no clutch cables, no filters or fluids to check.
- Cheaper Fuel Costs
- Quieter. no noise pollution
- Cleaner. No Air Pollution
- Cheaper maintenance costs
- Cleaner. No Air Pollution
- Reduced range (But dual battery scooters are now available with 100 miles range)
- Higher initial cost (though finance is available and costs are dropping)
How to charge an electric moped
Most electric mopeds (all the models we offer do) will have a removable battery that can be charged from any standard socket, usually taking around 6 hours. These will simply be a cable that plugs into the battery directly. Removing the battery takes a matter of seconds as it is usually clipped in behind a compartment door.
It’s good habit to charge the battery constantly and not let it run down too far, especially during winter months and if you’re not going to be using it much. Modern batteries are designed to protect against memory effect and other negative side effects previously associated with electric vehicles, however this is fast becoming an obsolete claim.
Currently there are not many “fast charge” or equivalents on the market, mostly to keep costs down. Some batteries will regain a significant amount of range in around 30 minutes of charge, however.
How much is electric moped Insurance?
This really depends on the company you go with, your history and the model of bike you’re looking to insure. well known brands like NIU and Super Soco will be cheaper than new to market or customised electric mopeds. Anything from £250 to £1,000 is common.
See our guide for more information on electric moped insurance.
Which Electric Moped to Buy?
Over the past 5 years there’s been a steady increase in availability in the UK for electric mopeds. Older models used Lead Acid batteries, which are heavy, slow to charge and low quality. leading to expensive replacement costs. Due to being older technology and lack of desirability, you often see this style on eBay. Best avoided unless you want more headaches down the line!
modern electric scooters are utilising Lithium Ion batteries to give far better performance. Lighter and safer, they charge quickly and are usually rated for thousands of recharge cycles.
At time of writing, Govecs NIU and SuperSoco are the dominant players in the UK market for electric mopeds. Each have slightly different uses and styles.
Govecs produce heavy duty models ideal for delivery riders and are the work horses of the eScooter space. Super Soco produce cafe-racer style, vintage Electric Motorbikes and Mopeds. ideal for longer commutes.The NIU range are a high tech, competitively priced every day commuter Scooter that combine tech and style into one neat package.
Things to look for when purchasing an electric moped:
- Range. Most modern motors and batteries allow up to a healthy 40. 50 mile range on a single battery, but some can take two batteries for 100 miles of range. Older electric mopeds may not have this range.
- Weight. Batteries are one of the heaviest items on a bike, and older designs will reduce range and handling ability if they use Lead Acid variants
- Removable battery. Most modern bikes such as the NIU, Govecs or SuperSoco bikes all have batteries that can be quickly removed for charging at the office or overnight away from the bike.
- Battery recharge time. Most scooter batteries will recharge to full in 6 hours. However, some models are starting to come through with fast charge abilities and charging in just 3 hours.
Do you need a license for an electric moped?
Yes! Any vehicle with a motor requires registering with DVLA and an accompanying license, unless it is an electric assist pedal bicycle. For most bikes, a CBT license will suffice which usually take a few hours with a training centre locally, and £100 or so.
If you have a driving license from before 2001, you may be able to ride category AM or P bikes on this. check your license for details.
If you’re a new rider, electric mopeds are a fantastic way to get into two wheels. Compared to their petrol counterparts, there’s much less to worry about. No oil, no clutch cables, no filters or fluids to check. everything is far more “get on and go”.
Electric moped top speed
For legal reasons, most mopeds are limited to 28 or 45mph to ensure they fall into the AM or P category of licenses, and thus only requiring a CBT license. The next class up is more expensive due to more battery and motor requirements, with the likes of Zero and Energica producing high speed electric motorbikes for £10,000. As a comparison, the 28mph NIU M Series is just £1,900.
About the CBT
CBT stands for “Compulsory Basic Training”. It is designed to give you the basic information, safety and confidence on the road while using a moped or motorcycle.
You can’t Pass or Fail your CBT. it is a set of training. Once completed, you can ride a moped (16) or any motorcycle / moped with a power rating up to 11kW if you’re over 17.
It is designed usually as a stepping stone to taking a full motorcycle license / test.
How much does CBT Training Cost?
Usually the course will be around £100, but be aware that it is down to local training schools’ to set and as such this may vary based on location and vehicles available.
The government has a handy course finder here to find a CBT school near you.
Top 10 Best Cheap Electric Scooters in 2023
Are you looking to get an electric scooter but have a limited budget? Then this article is for you. We review 10 of the best affordable e-scooters currently on the market so you can make the right purchase.
It Doesn’t Have To Be Expensive
Electric scooters are becoming more popular in cities and towns, and with good reason. They combine the versatility and eco-friendliness of a bicycle with a motor vehicle’s convenience, making them the ideal way to get around town.
Choosing the right electric scooter can be challenging since there are so many factors to keep in mind. Our electric scooter buying guide can help you figure out precisely what you need from your e-scooter, from max speed to extra features like cruise control and a convenient folding mechanism. The only thing you then have to consider is your price range.
Cheap electric scooters have a bit of a bad reputation, mainly due to poor manufacturing practices, which led to underpowered, potentially dangerous scooters. Luckily, the technology behind electric scooters has improved dramatically, meaning that there are plenty of cheap electric scooters with solid built quality out there.
If you want to buy an electric scooter on a budget, your first concern should be the scooter’s build quality. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the best electric scooters in the mid-range and affordable price bracket to help you find the perfect scooter for your wallet. While you won’t find the WideWheel Pro on this list, there are still plenty of electric scooters at a considerably more attractive price.
Top 10 Best Cheap Electric Scooters
Turboant X7 Pro
The Turboant X7 Pro is the premium offering from this innovative electric scooter company. It builds on the popular X7 while adding larger tires and a higher maximum range, making it one of the best electric scooters on the market price considered.
Many cheap scooters will feel flimsy, and loose handlebars are an increasing problem for beginners and experienced riders alike. The X7 Pro has amazing build quality with solid handles, a thick folding tubular stem, and a removable battery. It feels reliable even when loaded to its max weight capacity of 275 lb, making it a solid pick for heavy riders as well.
The 350-watt motor may not win prizes for being one of the fastest electric scooters on the road, but it makes up for it by being one of the most reliable. Acceleration feels smooth up to around 16 mph, after which it slows down noticeably. It’s still zippy enough to get you around town with ease, which is all that you need.
The battery is one of the best aspects of the T7 Pro. The lithium-ion 360Wh battery can power the motor for around 30 miles under ideal conditions, translating to approximately 15. 20 miles under everyday road use. Unfortunately, the battery does take up to six hours to charge fully, so it’s a good idea to keep a spare around, just in case.
While most people don’t take their scooters off-road, the 10 tires should be able to handle light trails and a bit of grass. Larger tires tend to absorb impact better, and while you’ll still feel every bump in the road, it’s not nearly as jarring as with smaller wheels solid wheels. The tires have plenty of road grip which makes controlling the scooter easy and comfortable.
Turboant spent a lot of time working on this scooter’s ergonomics, and the results speak for themselves. The rubber handles feel stable yet comfortable, and the push-brake handle is conveniently located at the right handle. The entire braking system feels responsive, and the lag time is negligible on the e-brake, which is a massive improvement on the original T7.
Overall, the Turboant T7 Pro is an excellent buy at this price point. It’s comfortable, reliable, and has a long-lasting battery that’s perfect for your daily work commute. Most of the competitors that offer similar features and specs are well out of this price range, making the T7 Pro our top choice. For those reasons, this is our top pick under 600.
Given its incredible value and solid range, it’s one of the best electric scooters for commuting.