What kind of bike do you want for commuting, fun, and exercise purposes? Knowing the difference between electric bikes and mopeds is essential before deciding.
Electric bikes have numerous benefits, just like mopeds. Which electric bike vs a moped is better? What is the difference?
These are the questions that come to many confused about which of the two vehicles to settle for.
How do you know if an electric bike is better than a moped? It all depends on what you’re looking for.
This article will break down the differences between electric bikes and mopeds, and I will also explain how the laws in your city may affect your choice.
What is a Moped?
A moped is a two- or three-wheeled vehicle that includes at least two wheels with an engine capacity of less than 50cc.
Mopeds are not required to have a license plate in most states and can be legally driven by those who meet the state’s age requirements.
Most states do not allow mopeds on interstates or freeways because of their low speed and power.
The U.S. Department of Transportation defines mopeds as “any two- or three-wheeled vehicle that has an engine with a displacement of less than 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement but greater than 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement and meets the standards outlined in section 571.3 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations.”
Different Types of Mopeds
There are two main types of mopeds: the first is a two-stroke, a single-cylinder that powers the motor.
You can keep this motor simple using one or two-cylinder engines, but they usually require regular maintenance and tuning to work smoothly.
Still, this engine type offers excellent features for handling small distances and maneuverability.
The other type is a four-stroke engine, in which the exhaust piston has multiple strokes before it leaves the cylinder.
This fueling system has similarities to gasoline engines but also differences.
For example, these engines have an air cleaner that collects dirt from the air intake system, meaning you’ll need to clean it regularly and your spark plugs if you want your moped to run at full power for long periods.
Mopeds with four-stroke motors also provide more power than their two-stroke counterparts—you can make sure this kind of engine works well by checking its compression ratio (the higher the number, the better).
Electric Bikes
An electric bike is a bicycle that features an integrated electric motor.
Unlike scooters and mopeds, these bikes are still bicycles and do not need to be registered or insured as motor vehicles; they are pedaled like regular bikes.
This makes them good options for those who want the convenience of an electric engine without the additional expenses of insuring and registering a motorcycle.
Rules and Regulations
The rules and regulations governing each of these vehicles also vary widely.
A driver’s license is required to operate a moped in most areas, whereas an electric bike doesn’t require any permit.
Mopeds have a top speed limit of 30 mph in most places, but the top speed of an electric bike is usually limited to 20 mph.
For models with higher wattage (electric bikes are limited to 250 watts), you must be at least 16 years old and have a driver’s license to operate them on public roads.
While some states don’t require helmets for adults riding electric bikes, minors are typically required to wear one.
In some places, e-bikes must be registered with your local Department of Motor Vehicles; other places don’t require registration or a license plate (but this is not recommended).
There’s also a variation in the kind of roadways they may travel. Electric bikes can be found in bicycle lanes but are never allowed on sidewalks.
Considering the meaning of electric bikes and mopeds and the rules and regulations governing each of these vehicles, let us delve into the factors that make one better.
Costs
With regards to electric bikes vs mopeds, which is more expensive? If you’re on a tight budget, then a moped might be better for you than an electric bike if you want to avoid buying a car.
The first question to ask yourself is, “How much money do I have to spend?” If your answer is “less than $500,” then an electric bike may not be your best option. It would help to consider how often and where you will use your vehicle.
If your commute is less than 10 minutes each way, an electric bike probably isn’t worth it because it’s more expensive than other options like taking public transportation or riding with friends in smaller groups.
It’s essential to consider your budget when deciding between an electric moped and an electric bike.
Electric mopeds are cheaper than bikes with similar ranges, but you can buy one with an internal combustion engine for around $2000.
Electric bikes with a similar range will be more expensive, starting at about $4000 for a mid-range model.
Size
When it comes to size and dimensions, mopeds are pretty small compared to electric bikes. This is primarily due to the engine size of the vehicle, however.
There can be a wide range of dimensions for electric bikes as well.
The difference between the two vehicles is that an electric bike’s primary power source derives from an electric motor and battery, while a gasoline-fueled engine powers a moped.
Thus, electric bikes contain batteries that can take up more space than gas tanks on mopeds.
Mopeds have smaller tires than your average electric bike, making them lighter and easier to handle with less balance required on the rider’s part.
They also tend to look sportier with bigger seats and elongated frames, which gives them a cool look but can sometimes be awkward for shorter riders or those with a low center of gravity issues (i.e., some may find it difficult if not impossible when leaning too far over).
It’s also important to note that even though these vehicles are technically considered motorcycles, they don’t mean they hold similar license requirements across states; some will require you to hold an endorsement, whereas others may allow you to use one without any further endorsement being needed at all!
Comfort and Aesthetics
Whereas mopeds are typically designed to look like small motorcycles, electric bikes resemble regular bicycles.
The practicality of their design allows you to feel comfortable and at ease on your ride, whereas a moped may feel less secure because of its height off the ground and lack of a fully enclosed design.
An electric bike is also much lighter than a moped, making it easier to maneuver if you need to make any sharp turns.
Electric Bikes and Mopeds: What Are the Similarities?
Mopeds and electric bikes are very similar, but there are some key differences to be aware of. Both types of vehicles require users to pedal to power the motor.
However, mopeds are powered by a gasoline engine, while electric bikes are electric-powered. Electric bikes are cleaner, safer, and quieter for their riders and the environment.
They don’t emit smog-producing emissions as gas engines do and operate more quietly than gas-powered vehicles.
Additionally, electric bikes can be more comfortable to ride with their lightweight frames and lighter motors than mopeds have.
Final words
We hope you enjoyed this article and learned everything you wanted to know about the best mopeds and electric bikes on the market today.
Hopefully, our work helped you make a more informed purchase decision when it comes to these admirable vehicles.
