Ever Wonder About the Differences Between Mopeds, Scooters, and Motorcycles?

Essentially, mopeds and scooters are also types of motorcycles, but the main difference is the power level and complexity of the design. This guide is available to learn the differences and decide which one of these machines is right for you. Feel free to visit us in Lewis Center, OH, for more information, and we proudly welcome customers from Columbus and Cincinnati, OH, as well!

Mopeds

Mopeds were first developed around the late 1800s. These bikes are very small and light in size, making them easy to travel to one's destination. Early models featured a two-stroke motor just above the front wheel. The purpose of the engine was originally to assist the rider with leg power, unlike with scooters and motorcycles. These were the most economical motorcycles since they were the lightest and easiest to repair. 

Mopeds are the simplest of the three types of bikes. Their purpose is to travel light around cities, such as NYC or Los Angeles. One tank of gas could give a person over 200 riding miles. In later years, mopeds began having lights, and the engine would be relocated to the middle of the bike or above the back wheel. Modern mopeds are two-wheeled bikes with an internal combustible engine that generates less than 50cc of power and under two horsepower. 

Scooters 

Scooters were originally assembled similarly to motorcycles with a manual transmission because of the limited technology available. Most modern-day scooters host Continuously Variable Transmissions, or CVT, and are all automatic. Scooters were designed to have all the positive features of mopeds without any of the negative aspects. They were and still are very fuel-efficient and lightweight. The main difference is the power level; scooters engines can go up to 850cc. 

Scooters didn't gain popularity until after World War II when many aircraft manufacturers decided to start mass producing them. As a result, many scooter companies were popping up in the US, Germany, Italy, and Japan. For about thirty years of production, scooters and motorcycles were designed similarly in speed and often raced together. 

Motorcycles

There are many manufacturers and models of motorcycles to choose from. While fuel-efficient cars and larger vehicles, you can virtually go anywhere on a motorcycle. From the 1970s until the present day, motorcycles have more power than both mopeds and scooters. 

Now, you're able to make a better decision about which type of two-wheeled bike you want to purchase. Then, when you're ready to start shopping for a moped, scooter, or motorcycle, we're happy to help you find the perfect one. Our Motorcycle Maxx location is in Lewis Center, Ohio, and we also serve Cincinnati and Columbus, Ohio!