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How Fast Can a Moped Go? Pros, Cons & FAQs

Mopeds

Mopeds are generally known as very slow motorized bicycles, but many people wonder how fast mopeds actually go. Their speed can vary depending on the model and particularly on the size of the engine, but most mopeds can achieve a maximum speed of 30 miles per hour, which is equal to an engine the size of 50cc.

If you want to learn more about different types of mopeds and the average speed a moped can achieve, read on below!

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What Are Mopeds?

Mopeds are small, two-wheeled vehicles that are favored by newer generations. They are technically two-wheeled motorized bicycles—their name came from the blend of motor and pedal. The moped is famous for its pedaling system required to start the engine, which you can also use in case of an emergency. Even though they are counted as old-school vehicles, many people are skeptical about the practicality and efficiency of mopeds. Although mopeds are the slowest out of all two-wheeled vehicles, they are still handy for driving around the city.

Moped Vespa
Image Credit: Alexas_Fotos, Pixabay

Advantages of Owning a Moped

There are many advantages to a moped and many features that can improve your everyday life, including:

Pros
  • With a moped, you can easily make your way around dense traffic
  • Mopeds use much less fuel than other vehicles
  • They are easy to maintain
  • They are very cheap
  • Many mopeds are electric, which contributes less to pollution
  • They are easy to drive
  • Mopeds are ideal for beginners
  • Some states in the US do not require a driver’s license to drive a moped

Disadvantages of Owning a Moped

While owning and driving a moped has impressive benefits, some disadvantages exist, and before buying a moped, it is essential to be informed of the drawbacks, too.

Cons
  • Much slower than any motorcycle or scooter
  • Unsuitable and not legal for driving on highways
  • Not designed to travel longer distances
  • Not equipped with many extras that motorcycles have built-in

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How Fast Can a Moped Go?

The speed of most mopeds will depend on the size of their engines. The biggest engine that a moped can have is 50cc—anything above that is considered a scooter. 50cc is a measurement used to describe the engine’s capacity and the amount of fuel and air it can burn. When an engine, such as that one in a moped, has 50cc, it can burn 50 cubic centimeters of fuel and air to create horsepower. An engine with a capacity of 50cc can usually get to a speed of 30 miles per hour. While this seems very little, it is more than enough for city rides.

Green Moped Vespa
Image Credit: Alexas_Fotos, Pixabay

How Fast Can Electric Mopeds Go?

Electric mopeds are a relatively new invention—essentially the same as conventional petrol mopeds other than being powered on electricity. Many young people are becoming more conscious of the contribution gas-powered vehicles have to pollution. The emission of CO2 from conventional vehicles is immense, and figuring out new ways of transport is a priority for many.

Electric mopeds are one of these inventions. They are eco-friendly, emit no greenhouse gases, and are effortless to maintain. Some electric mopeds can go up to 59 miles per hour! These mopeds are excellent for driving in bigger cities, but with these mopeds having a driver’s license is required.

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Final Thoughts

As you were probably aware, mopeds are generally slow vehicles with a speed that is only enough for shorter city drives, although their speed can be very useful in high volume traffic. Mopeds typically don’t get above 30mph, although some electric versions can reach almost double this speed. Anything above 50cc is generally considered a scooter, and you’ll need a license to drive one.


Featured Image Credit: 12019, Pixabay

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