Electric Scooter Vs Electric Bike: Which One Should You Get?
By now, most everyone has either been an e scooter rider or has seen adults riding electric kick scooters if they haven’t ridden one themselves.
Scooters have shed their association with kids toys and can be considered viable alternatives to most local transportation, be it public transit or the daily drive to work.
But we already had a viable alternative to the subway and the car – the bike, which in recent years has transformed from the conventional bike into the e bike, combining pedal power with the expansive storage capacity of the lithium-ion battery.
So why ride an electric scooter instead?
The popularity of scooters, both shared and owned, in bike lanes, sidewalks, and city streets shows that millions of people have their reasons, and we’ll look at just a few of them.
But we have to give hugely popular electric bikes due consideration as well: for many people who want to get out of the car. an electric bike just might make more sense.
Let’s dig into the pros and cons of scooters vs bikes and by the end of this comparison, you should have a good idea which mode of transportation might suit you best.
Electric Scooters vs. Electric Bikes
Both e bikes and e scooters use some similar mechanisms to drive them forward: a large-capacity battery transfers power to a small, powerful electric motor embedded in one or both wheel hubs.
Riders on e scooters use a throttle control to increase the power and accelerate, whereas many e bikes kick in the electric motor assist automatically as the rider pedals.
E scooter brakes can be electric and regenerative (which means they transfer a small amount of power back to the battery), as well as mechanical or hydraulic (disc or drum brakes on e scooters).
Small, large-capacity batteries (usually lithium-ion) and small, powerful electric motor technologies are relatively new, and so electric scooters and electric bikes have grown up together, so to speak, and might be thought of as having reached a similar stage of development.
Both electric bikes and electric scooters will both get you where you need to go many times faster than walking, and usually even faster than driving in major cities since they can skirt around traffic snarls.
How Do You Know Which to Choose?
Despite some basic similarities in operation and electrical components, electric scooters and e bikes are different enough to warrant serious thought about which one to ride if you’re wanting to ditch the gas engine for a personal electric vehicle.
Is public transport part of your commute, or could it be? Are you hoping to get some exercise on your everyday commutes or do you want to keep your outfit looking fresh? How much are you willing to spend? Do you need to carry kids and cargo or do you travel light and solo?
We’ll look at these questions below in our discussion of electric scooter vs electric bike.
For the purposes of this comparison, we’ll define e scooters as electric stand-up kick scooters and electric bikes as pedal assist bikes: electric bicycles with a manual drive train in addition to a hub motor.
Cost of E-scooter vs. E-bike
Maybe the first question to cross anyone’s mind when they think about a new mode of transportation is: How much will this cost me? There isn’t a simple answer, given the range of costs involved.
The average electric scooter can be priced from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. But on the lower end, you can purchase a quality entry level electric scooter for around 500.
Simply because of their larger size and increased material costs, even conventional bikes have a higher price floor than scooters. A good conventional bike will start at around 1000 for a reliable entry level model.
A good electric bike can cost anywhere from 1200 to 10,000, depending on the brand and size of the bike, frame materials, the battery, and the motor.
If you’re buying a large cargo bike or lightweight electric road bike, you can expect to spend at least 2000 minimum on a quality product, and that’s usually for a base model. Consider that a comparable lightweight electric scooter might only set you back about half that much, and you’re looking at a very different level of investment.
Electric scooters can cost hundreds less than e bikes at the entry level, but at the midrange, their are comparable. At the higher end, electric bikes are much more expensive than comparable electric scooters.
Comfort, Speed, and Range
When it comes to comfort, electric bikes have an advantage. Electric bikes offer a smoother ride, as the rider can sit down and pedal, and larger wheels and tires mean bikes can glide over most road bumps.
Standing e scooters can be very comfortable, however, and many have pneumatic tires and spring or hydraulic suspension systems to dampen vibration and provide a smooth ride. It’s just typically easier to sit for longer rides.
When it comes to speed, it can be a toss up. Most commuter e bikes have a maximum speed of 20-30 mph. Similarly priced scooters can reach speeds of up to 40-50 mph, though it’s rarely safe or legal to ride that fast. The speed limit for electric scooters in most places is under 20 mph.
Range is generally better for e-bikes, as they have larger batteries and can travel farther on a single charge, and pedal assist e bikes depend on human power as well as electric and can still take you home if the battery dies.
However, electric scooters are an excellent option for those looking for a quick and easy way to get around. They are more maneuverable in tight spaces and can be easier to park. Plus, as we noted, they are often more affordable than electric bikes.
E bikes are generally a more comfortable ride and are better for longer distances. Electric scooters are best for shorter trips and can easily beat city streets with their maneuverability and high speeds. E scooters are the better choice for city traffic.
Portability
It might be harder to carry groceries on an electric scooter, but it’s got a definite advantage when it comes to carrying the vehicle itself.
Most electric scooters are smaller and, often, lighter than electric bikes, and most have folding and/or telescoping stems and/or folding handlebars to bring them down to more manageable size.
While you can buy a folding electric bike, most recommended e bikes don’t fold and those that do cannot beat the footprint of a compact electric scooter.
Weight is also a significant factor. A lightweight, portable electric scooter like the Apollo Air might weigh between 30 and 40 lbs. A comparable electric bike might weigh up to 60 lbs or more, depending on factors like on- or off-road tires, frame materials, and level of drivetrain and braking components specced for the bike.
Portability is important for several reasons, especially if you rely on an electric scooter as your primary commuter vehicle. For one thing, you can always fold up your e scooter and throw in the trunk of a car share or on the bus or subway if you get caught in a rainstorm.
You can also bring your scooter inside with you, in most cases, and keep it warm and dry in the office and at home, letting it charge while you go about your day.
Being able to carry an electric scooter inside presents a huge advantage when it comes to security. Electric bike adoption is massively on the rise, but so too is electric bike theft.
It can be challenging to secure an expensive electric vehicle against all the ways thieves have devised to thwart standard bike locks.
Of course, you can’t always bring your scooter inside with you, and when you need to leave it outside, you’ll also need to lock it up and protect it against theft.
A few scooters have easily removable, lockable batteries, but most do not, while many electric bikes have batteries that can be locked while on the bike and removed and charged while off the bike.
Most electric scooters will be easier to carry and store than the average electric bike.
Maintenance Repairs
The question of maintenance is a big one, especially if you’re not the most mechanically inclined person and don’t want to do any hands-on work yourself. If that’s the case you’ll need to find a reputable mechanic to service your electric vehicle.
Since electric bikes are now routinely sold at bike shops, they are also routinely serviced there. But electric scooters are a different story.
Electric scooters require less maintenance than electric bikes, as long as you buy a decent one and use it as it is intended. However, if something does go wrong, you may be hard-pressed to find an electric scooter mechanic in your area.
Electric scooters don’t require you to regularly change gears, clean the drivetrain, and lube the chain, like a regular bike will.
Apart from the occasional brake check, brake pad replacement, battery charging and care, checking the tires for air pressure, and fixing the rare flat, you’ll be okay.
Just like makers of e bikes, scooter manufacturers will offer warranty service on most major parts.
Still, electric scooter riders should prepare to occasionally be without their scooter for whatever repair work needs to be done, and that can be a real pain if it’s your primary form of transportation. It is important to always consider insurance for your electric scooter or electric bike.
While electric bikes require more regular maintenance scooters, they can be serviced and repaired at most local bike shops. Electric scooter repair shops are harder to find and you might have to ship your scooter to have it serviced.
The new Apollo Pro, the world’s first Hyper scooter
Electric scooters vs electric bikes. Conclusion
Electric bikes are great for riders who want more exercise, who live in cities with lots of bike lanes, bike paths, and bicycle areas, and want to go on longer excursions than the average electric scooter can take.
That said, as we noted, the technology is evolving and electric scooters are getting faster and more efficient. The new Apollo Pro. for example, the first Hyper scooter, will compete with most electric bikes in terms of range and speed, and it may be one of the most comfortable standing electric scooters on the market.
If your transportation needs include commuting through city traffic, if you’re concerned about portability and want a vehicle you can fold up, and if you tend to take shorter rides and don’t want to pedal, you should really consider riding an electric scooter.
There are many reasons to ride an electric bike, but when it comes to personal electric vehicles that maximize ease of use and portability and save you the most time and money on maintenance and repairs, electric scooters are the way to go.
FAQ
What are the key differences between an electric scooter and an electric bike?
Despite some operational and component similarities, electric scooters and e-bikes vary in several ways.
Electric scooters are more compact, often lighter, and typically less expensive. They’re also more maneuverable in tight spaces and easier to carry and store. On the other hand, electric bikes offer a smoother ride, are better for longer distances, and have a larger range due to bigger batteries.
How does the cost of electric scooters compare to electric bikes?
On average, electric scooters are less expensive than electric bikes. You can purchase a quality entry-level electric scooter for around 500, whereas a reliable entry-level electric bike starts at around 1000.
However, at the mid-range and higher end, the become comparable, and electric bikes can become much more expensive than electric scooters.
How does portability compare between electric scooters and electric bikes?
Electric scooters generally have a portability advantage. They are smaller, often lighter, and many models have folding features, making them easier to carry and store.
Electric bikes, especially those that don’t fold, can’t match the compact size of a scooter. over, the ability to bring an electric scooter indoors can offer significant security benefits against theft.
Maintenance of electric scooters vs. electric bikes
Electric scooters usually require less maintenance than electric bikes, provided you use them as intended. However, if repairs are needed, finding a local electric scooter mechanic can be challenging.
On the other hand, while electric bikes require more regular maintenance, they can be serviced at most local bike shops.
Moped bike for adults
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https://www.juicedbikes.com/products/hyperscorpion 6613367259200 Closeout HyperScorpion: Electric Moped-Style Bike 1899.00 //cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1009/9108/products/HyperScorpion2022-Black-RtSide.jpg?v=1673544446 //cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1009/9108/products/HyperScorpion2022-Black-RtSide_large.jpg?v=1673544446 USD InStock E-Bikes 271352102976 Closeout E-Bikes 266507255872 Commuter E-Bikes 140923077 Electric Bikes 266507354176 Fastest Electric Bikes 266507288640 Fat-Tire Electric Bike 270539948096 G2 Battery E-Bikes 177864147008 Holiday Gift Guide 263314931776 New 266507223104 Off-Road Electric Bikes 137060810775 SALE 175794683968 Scorpion Bikes 174328184896 Scorpion Models 266507321408 Step-Through E-Bikes 266507419712 Urban E-Bikes
The current HyperScorpion is being discontinued. Information on a replacement model will be available later this year.
A micro-mobility masterpiece! The fully-loaded HyperScorpion features a massive 1,000W RetroBlade motor to fuel off-road speeds up to 30mph. Equipped with our NEW G2 52V 19.2Ah battery (SGS Certified to UL 2271). the HyperScorpion is capable of an impressive 70 mile riding range. The top-rated electric bike is also loaded with premium safety features including rearview mirrors, integrated brake light, turn signals, hydraulic disc brakes and an upgraded horn. HyperScorpion offers a super smooth ride with dual suspension, torque and cadence pedal assist technology, 8-speed transmission for the ultimate in e-bike riding performance, comfort and style.
Long Range Moped-Style Electric Bike Escape Pro
E-bike assembly from 112.7 with Check availability
All Himiway bikes are covered under our manufacturer’s 2-year all-inclusive warranty for the original owner against all manufacturing defects (All free Accessories are not covered by warranty service). Himiway has over 300 dealerships in the United States. All dealerships provide free diagnosis and free maintenance services to customers.
For non-quality issues, customer may ask for product replacement or return within 15 days after received it. A 10% processing fee will be applied but we can prevent it for the customer if a replacement order is received. The customer is also responsible for the return shipping cost of 150. Himiway will provide a return shipping label, and the designated carrier will collect the return package. The customer may also choose self-return or arrange the return shipment by himself.
Currently, we only provide FREE shipping to the lower 48 states in the US. And we DO NOT ship to PO BOXES or APO.
The top speed of all Himiway bikes is up to 15.5 MPH, which is legally required in the US.
Upgraded 48V 17.5Ah Samsung/LG Lithium-ion Battery
With the 48V 17.5Ah Samsung/LG Lithium-ion Battery, the Himiway Escape Pro can range for up to 60 miles per charge (with pedal assist). The 840Wh capacity provides a 45-mile range on pure electric power.
New Mechanical Protection Design
Fully Integrated Battery Design
The wires are built inside the frame, which reduces mechanical failure in extreme weather conditions by up to 95%. The Himiway Escape Pro maintains 80% capacity even after 1000 charges.
Updated 6061 Aluminum Frame
Himiway uses higher-quality materials for the frames, which brings stronger triangle stability, 3 times thicker and sturdier than other competing frames on the market. The load capacity is greatly enhanced, and we promise a 10-year frame damage replacement service.
Fun never goes out of functional
Himiway Escape Pro
Best selling moped style E-Bike equipped with 48V Samsung battery and 20 x 4 inches fat tires. The multifunctional LCD display can be precisely set and displayed every detailed parameter you expect. Dual Suspension and fat tires provide incredible braking performance and stability. 750W motor power and 7 gear shift system make your riding easier under any cycling conditions. Want a moped-style E-bike with longer range, better performance and stronger power? Himiway Escape Pro will always be your best choice.
750W
Geared Hub Motor (continuous)
30-50 miles
Miles per Charge (estimate)
Specification
Components
- A.- Total Length 69
- B.- Handlebar Height 46.5
- C.- Wheelbase 43.7
- D.- Seat Height 28
- E.- Top Tube Length 22.5
- F.- Chain Stay Length 19
- G.- Standover Height 31
- H.- Wheel Diameter 23
- I.- Head Tube Length 6
- J.- Handlebar Length 28
- Battery 48V 17.5Ah Samsung/LG lithium battery
- Range 30-50 Miles
- Hub Motor 750W brushless gear motor
- Total Payload Capacity 330 lb.
- Recommended Rider Heights 5’1 ~ 6’1
- Charger US standard 2.0 A Smart charger
- Controller 48V / 22A
- Display LCD display with USB charging
- Weight 92lb.
- Pedal Assist Intelligent 0~5 level pedal assist
- Tires 20 x 4 Kenda fat tires
- Brake lever Aluminum alloy comfort grip levers with motor cutoff switch
- Rear Light Taillight
- Freewheel Shimano 7 speed gear shift system
- Brake180MM Mechanical Disc Brakes
- Chain KMC chain
- Stem MA-5040 28.631.8MM
- Crank 46T170MM 4-jaw L/R forged alloy
- Gearing Shimano- 14-28T BROWN/BK
- Front Fork Front Suspension Hydraulic Lockout
- Throttle Half twist throttle
- Pedal Alloy pedal with reflectors
- Bike Frame 6061 Aluminum frame
- Front Light 48V LED light
- Saddle Velo soft saddle
- Full fenders Rear rack Included
- Kickstand Heavy duty aluminum
- Wheels Alloy wheels
Updated 6061 Aluminum Frame Fully Integrated Battery Design
Himiway uses high-quality 6061 aluminum for the frame to give the bike unparalleled durability. The moped frame design is friendly to heavier riders and riders with physical limitations, making it easier for everyone to get on and off their bikes. The integrated design gives you protection from inclement weather, eliminating up to 98% of common mechanical failures.
Updated Motor : Fast accelerationGood gradeabilityLonger Lifespan
750W Upgraded Brushless Geared Hub Motor Use the latest updated inner ring specialized in high temperature resistance and better heat dissipation, which can reduce the motor magnets’ attenuation speed to guarantee a longer life expectancy. The 750W brushless gear hub motor can help you conquer even the most rugged terrain easily.
Why HIMIWAY can be the long range expert ? Here is the reason
Himiway Escape Pro combines the new 48V 17.5AH Samsung/LG Lithium-ion Battery to ensure a long life expectancy and distinguished performance. The single range can be up to 60 miles per charge on pedal-assist mode and around 35 miles on pure electric power mode.
The range can be affected by several factors like rider weight, incline, and pedal-assist levels, etc.
Multifunctional LCD Display
Backlight display provides the information of speed, mileage, power, etc.
Battery Capacity
A fuel gauge for your electrons.
Odometer
Calculate how many miles you have ridden
Pedal Assist Level
Pedal assistance power adjustment.
Speedometer
Can be set to current speed, max speed, or average speed.
USB Charging
It can charge your dying cell phone.
Wattmeter
Displays motor power output in real-time.
Better control and traction
Himiway Escape Pro boasts a Dual Suspension Hydraulic Lockout which ensures comfort of riding under any complex cycling conditions. Push your rides to an advanced level while enjoying better control and traction of your E-bike. Go smoother, go longer, and rule the road.
20X4 Kenda Fat Tires
20×4 Kenda K-shield fat tires provide upgraded grip and traction on rugged roads. Even on the most challenging terrains and weather conditions, these fat tires can guarantee your safety and offer you an easy and smooth riding experience.
Shimano 7 Speed Gear Shift System
The Shimano 7 speed freewheel means you can shift to a larger cog for uphill riding and downshift to a smaller cog for high speed riding. In combination with the pedal-assist system, you can adjust the most suitable speed to complete your journey.
180mm Mechanical Disc Brakes
Sensitive Aries 180mm mechanical disc brakes provide ample braking force even in the harshest conditions efficiently.
Integrated Brake Light
The automatic brake light will be activated whenever you use the brake, which can prevent rear-end collisions while riding at night.
48V LUMINOSITY SPOTLIGHT
The Himiway independent RD luminosity spotlight is 20% brighter than LED light. Visibility is improved to guarantee your safety while riding at night.
Full suspension
The dual suspension effectively absorbs most of the jarring bumps and shocks, especially on complicated and rugged routes, reducing your tiredness and allowing you to ride faster.
Durable Aluminum Crankset
Durable aluminum crankset guards to provide further protections to the chainring and help the chainstay to travel over rough terrain.
Half Twist Throttle
Customer Reviews
I love this e-bike. It’s so fun to ride, I’m learning how to use and it’s a lot of fun. I’m not a young person so I just take my time. Would recommend this e-bike Rhonda R.
I’ve rode this bike with the model with the battery on the bottom and the bike is amazing the only complaint I have with this bike is there swing arm it wiggles alot after 2000miles and it makes the whole back end feel loose but other than that my bike has many upgrades and just a overall great bike to buy for the price my tiktok is BUZZBIKEMASON you can see the upgrades ive put on it and what this bike is really capable of.
Can’t get the front lights to come on
I have 700 miles on my Himiway Escape now. I’ve driven it all over Chicago for over a year now (it even goes through sand). The battery will last for 20 miles full speed (no pedaling) when it’s new. But now I only get 16 miles. It goes 22 MPH constantly with no pedaling at all. The one thing that sucks is the screechy brakes. They were really loud, but I rub grease on the disks every couple months and it’s quiet. ALL E-Bikes exaggerate their miles of range. Always look at AH (Amp Hours) when shopping. The Escape is 16AH, which ends up being 16 miles of range (full speed, no pedaling). I test drove the Pedego brand E-bike. It’s seat was uncomfortable, only went 18 MPH, and the motor made a slight screeching noise. 22 MPH is so much more fun than 18 MPH, it’s a big difference when you’re on the bike. Also very important is Himiway’s customer service. If you E-mail them, they WILL respond and send you parts fast.
All I need is this bike. Retired a couple years ago and have my family close. I’ll ride to go see my grandkids instead of driving. Wanted a Harley but the hemi will do.
I think the bikes are really nice so far only have 15 miles but so far everything is great. Still waiting for broken plastic front fender connector on front fork
It’s been great except that it arriv3d with two minor pieces that were broken. I reported it right away and am just waiting to receive the parts so 8 can finish putting the from fender on.
Quality is better than my last Harley! Easy to assemble, the only improvement I would recommend is a better connection for the front light wiring. Good job Folks!
Love the matte black finish. The seat is comfortable. I enjoy the step through on the escape pro. The headlight is solid in my opinion. The display is user friendly. I would definitely purchase another one. only complaint is the brakes could be a little better.
Still making adjustments for how much power assist in each gear to my liking, but so far so good.
Himiway Escape Pro FAQS
Which class of E-bike does Himiway Escape belong to?
Himiway Escape belongs to class 2 E-bike with pedal assist.
Generally, how long will it take to assemble?
Our customers generally need 45 to 70 minutes to assemble the bike. Does it take too long? Check out the Himiway’s official instruction video or find a pro on Voletooler for help.
Why moped-frames and fat tires can bring a better riding experience?
The moped-frame makes commuting much easier and faster. The design of the moped-frame can effectively improve battery durability and is very friendly to cycling beginners. The fat tire provides massive grip and mechanical stability in any complex riding conditions, which can protect the riding safety of cyclists, especially the elderly.
What are the effects and functions of dual suspension?
The dual suspension can efficiently soak up most of the jarring bumps, especially on complex and bumpy roads, which helps you to reduce fatigue and ride faster.
I want more Himi points to get more discounts. How to redeem Himi points?
There are several ways to acquire Himi points. We will also hold some special events regularly, such as Ride Earn. Here are the ways to redeem Himi points.
What is the top speed of Himiway Escape?
For the U.S market, the top speed of Himiway Escape is around 23mph without pedaling, which is absolutely legal.
Does Himiway have any dealers and test riding spots through offline channels?
Currently, Himiway doesn’t have and accept any dealership. Purchasing on Himiway official website is the only option. For test riding spots, please reserve click here to reserve a test ride.
There are more answers and solutions in the FAQ section. Or you can email to support@himiwaybike.com or submit a request.If you would like to purchase Himiway E-bikes in Europe. Please click Himiway City Pedelec.
Moped vs. Scooter vs. Motorcycle: Understanding the Differences
When you think of a two-wheeled vehicle, the first thing that may come to mind is a motorcycle or scooter, or perhaps even a moped. All three are considered great forms of transportation for commuting or when one simply does not prefer a car. However, have you wondered what the differences are between the three two-wheeled vehicles? Aesthetically, they’re quite different, but what are the fundamental differences that set them apart? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. We’ll delve into the characteristics of mopeds vs. scooters vs. motorcycles to help you make an informed decision on what type of two-wheel transportation will be best for your riding situation.
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What is a Scooter?
Commonly seen on the roads in the United States (aside from motorcycles) are scooters or motor scooters. A scooter is a two-wheeled vehicle with a step-through chassis and footrest platform. They were first developed in the early 1900s and have continued to gain popularity since their debut. The most common brand associated with a scooter is the Vespa, developed after World War II in Italy and has since been exported worldwide.
Scooters are powered by a small engine that provides all of the propulsion, with displacement ranging from 50cc to 250cc. Scooters typically operate on small 10-inch wheels and use an electrical charging system, which powers the lights and ignition system and replenishes the battery. Compared to motorcycles, scooters are more maneuverable due to their low speeds and easier to ride.
Scooters generally have engines ranging between 50cc and 250cc. However, in some western markets, you can find a scooter with an engine of up to 850cc. With an engine that large, some may think it should be classified as a motorcycle, but the key difference is that scooters have a ‘step-through’ chassis design.
Scooters have a mixture of automatic and manual transmissions, but the automatic or CVT is the leading favorite with newer models due to their ease of use. They’re fuel-efficient, lightweight, and easy to handle, and unlike mopeds, many scooters have large enough engines that are far more capable of daily commutes.
Despite their physical attributes, there aren’t any differences in their legal classification. Scooters abide by the same rules as motorcycles. One must be at least 14 years of age to ride, but some states require a minimum age of 16. People who ride scooters must have a motorcycle endorsement to ride on the streets, motorcycle insurance, and proper riding gear, including a helmet and eye protection. They obey motorcycle laws and complete similar, if not the same, tests at the Department of Motor Vehicles, so be sure to study the motorcycle instruction manual and laws if your state does not have a specific test on scooter riding and ownership.
What is a Moped?
The moped is frequently confused with the scooter, as it is not commonly used in the United States. One may think they are the same, or that one is slightly larger.
A moped is a bicycle-type vehicle (or two-wheeled vehicle) usually equipped with pedals and a low-powered engine that provides an economical mode of transportation. However, nowadays, mopeds have a step-through frame with or without pedals. It typically has an engine smaller than 50cc and/or has a maximum speed of 28mph. With such low-speed ability, they should not be ridden on highways, as they are incapable of keeping up with traffic and will put your safety at risk. Keep them to the city or urban streets where they are meant to go.
A moped’s engine is designed to assist the rider while pedaling and provide only a portion of the power. Mopeds may be equipped with a basic electrical system, but many can still be ridden with the sole use of the pedals.
Some states have included in their laws that mopeds are defined by their engine size, while others have defined them by the maximum speed the vehicle can go.
Most states classify a moped with a 50cc or less engine and a maximum speed of 28-30 miles per hour. Kansas is one of the few states that classifies a moped up to a 130cc engine size; therefore. a motor vehicle that doesn’t utilize pedaling power legally qualifies as a moped as long as it’s small or slow enough.
Similarly to legal classifications, every state has different age requirements for riding, the type of protective gear needed to be worn, and the type of license/registration and/or insurance. Most states require a motor vehicle license endorsement, so one must be at least 15 years of age, if not 16. Some states will allow a motorcycle endorsement in place of the motor vehicle endorsement, others will require both, while a limited handful doesn’t require either.
Regarding registration, about half the states require a moped to be registered to be legally ridden on the road. In a similar fashion, about half of the states require insurance as well. Personal protective gear is only required in some states, too; however. we strongly recommend riding with the proper protection (ATGATT), whether it’s a state requirement or not, but we’ll mention it anyway, mopeds shouldn’t be ridden on highways.
What is a Motorcycle?
Motorcycles date back 100 years to the early 1900s. Many historic brands out there have a storied history of how they were developed in small barns and garages.
A motorcycle is a two-wheeled vehicle powered by a motor and contains no pedals. They are designed for higher speeds and are equipped with better acceleration and high-speed handling characteristics. Motorcycles are capable of slow urban commutes or highway speeds and beyond. They offer more wind protection than a moped or scooter and generally have some cargo storage available.
Most motorcycles have 250cc or larger engines, deeming them significantly larger than a scooter. Although you can find specific motorbikes with 250cc or smaller engines, such as off-road or Gran Prix motorcycles, the lack of the step-through chassis and the requirement to mount the motorcycle before riding characterizes it as a motorcycle vs. a scooter.
Motorcycles have an engine mounted in the middle of the frame with a gas tank above it. Unlike a scooter, the engine is attached to the frame rather than on the rear suspension. The rider sits astride the engine with the gas tank in front of them. The rider cannot step through the chassis but instead requires one to swing a leg over the chassis to mount the motorcycle. In addition, motorcycle wheels are typically larger (over 16″ in diameter) than those on a scooter.
Unlike scooters, which have a “twist and go” automatic (CVT) transmission (where one doesn’t have a clutch to control nor have to change gears), 99% of motorcycles have a manual clutch that requires the rider shift gears manually (usually conducted with the right leg). This manual clutch requires the motorcycle rider to use their right foot to actuate the rear brakes, while scooter riders can use their left hand to apply the rear brake.
Moped vs. Scooter
Finding the distinction between mopeds vs. scooters might be challenging. A few years ago, the main difference between these two was the pedals when most mopeds looked like this:
However, in modern times, mopeds are differentiated by their engine size, output, and speed; mopeds have a smaller engine with less power than scooters, with a maximum of 50cc.
Scooter vs. Motorcycle
Although variations in appearance between scooters vs. motorcycles may seem straightforward, let’s learn about some less evident ones.
Since they often have automatic transmissions, smaller engines, and superior mobility, scooters are simpler to learn to ride, leading some to even think they are safer than motorcycles. On the other hand, motorcycles are designed to travel farther distances, have bigger fuel tanks, and are typically more expensive.
moped vs. scooter vs. motorcycle
| Definition | Two-wheeled vehicle with a step-through chassis and footrest platform | Two-wheeled vehicle equipped with bicycle-like pedals that the rider uses to propel the vehicle | Two-wheeled vehicle designed for higher speeds and are equipped with better acceleration |
| Engine Size | 50cc to 250cc | 50cc | 250cc or larger |
| Wheel Size | 10” – 16” | Varies | 16” or larger |
| Speed | Varies by engine size | 28mph | Varies by engine size |
| Ability to Ride on Highways? | Yes | No | Yes |
| Legal Age to Ride | 14-16 | 15-16 | 16 |
| Motorcycle License Required? | Yes | Varies by state | Yes |
Key Takeaways
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