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Mopeds, Scooters & Cycles
If you need or want your own motorized "wheels," a car isn't your only option. A motorcycle or moped/travel scooter can cost less, be easier to maintain and get better gas mileage than a car or truck. This might be a good option if you:
- Often commute/travel alone or with just one other adult
- Enjoy 'open-air' traveling, or don't need or mind traveling in all weather
- Want to spend less money on your 'wheels' than on a car
- Want to cut your carbon/eco footprint
Comparing wheels
|
Vehicle |
Purchase Cost |
Gas Mileage |
|
Small Car (based on 2010 Honda Civic) |
$15,655 |
29 miles/gallon |
|
Motorcycle (based on Yamaha 2010 YZF-R1) |
$13,290 |
33 miles/gallon |
|
Moped/Scooter (based on Yamaha 2010 Vino Classic) |
$2,190 |
110 miles/gallon |
What is the difference between a motorcycle, a moped and a (motor/travel) scooter?
Technically, travel/commuter "scooters" are a kind of motorcycle, but generally have a different design (legs in front instead of straddling) and a lower top speed. They cost less and get higher gas mileage than what most people call a "motorcycle."
Similarly, "moped" technically refers to any motorcycle or scooter below a certain engine size and/or speed. Vehicles called "mopeds" usually also have pedals, while vehicles typically called "scooters" have foot wells and panels protecting the rider from engine heat and exhaust.
(Some "electric bicycles" look more like mopeds than bicycles, but are run on electric instead of gasoline power.)
People tend to choose motorcycles for high performance or longer distance riding, while others choose mopeds or scooters for their much lower price and lack of special license requirements (for most), though they may not go as fast as a motorcycle
|
Vehicle |
Legal Requirement |
General Information |
|
Motorcycle |
Requires a special license. Must be registered with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and inspected |
May or may not cost less to buy and get better gas mileage than a car. Come in a variety of types for different purposes |
|
Moped/Travel Scooter |
May or may not require a special license. Must be registered with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and inspected |
Usually cost much less to buy than a car. Get much better gas mileage than a car |
* We are not referring to stand-up scooters, which CANNOT be registered by the state Department of Motor Vehicles and CANNOT be operated on roads or highways.
Make sure you're legal
Whether your vehicle is commonly called a motorcycle, moped or travel scooter, it's important to make sure you are following the legal requirements for owning and operating it. Two-wheel street vehicles of different speeds have different requirements around permits, helmets, insurance, inspection and where to ride. All require registration and a headlight on when operating.
For more on different classes of vehicles and their requirements, visit the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)or contact the local DMV at 301 Third Street, 607-272-7187.
