How Fast Are Mopeds?
Mopeds are easy to drive, comfortable, and economically priced. Iconic mopeds like Vespa scooters have also been immortalized in Hollywood films. No wonder mopeds are immensely popular among both new and experienced riders in the United States.
So, how fast does a moped go? Mopeds can go as fast as 30 to 70 miles per hour. But it depends on the size of the engine or engine capacity. Larger engines can reach higher speeds than smaller engines.
Moreover, the speed also depends on where you are riding your moped and the rider’s weight. Even low cc mopeds can hit high speeds of over 30 miles per hour on public roads and open roads.
Table of contents
How fast can a moped go?
Popular mopeds typically have a maximum speed of around 30-50 mph (48-80 kilometers per hour). But it depends on the engine capacity. Mopeds with bigger engines can even reach speeds up to 70 mph.
Other factors, such as terrain, the rider’s weight, and weather conditions, can all affect the top speed of a moped. Heavier riders add to the weight of motor vehicles, making it harder to reach higher top speeds.
Another important point to note about moped speed is that local laws have limitations on how fast your moped can go. This depends on the size of the engine. So, you should keep that in mind.
Let’s have an in-depth look at the max speed of mopeds with different engine sizes.
Additionally, some electric mopeds are gaining in popularity and may have the potential to reach higher top speeds than petrol mopeds, although this can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
How fast can a 50cc moped go?
A 50cc (cubic centimeters) moped typically has a top speed of 30 to 35 miles per hour (48 to 57 kilometers per hour). Their automatic transmissions help ease of use and not have to worry about gear changes.
Due to their limited top speed, 50cc mopeds are often regarded as ideal for city streets and short distances.
How fast are 100cc mopeds?
A 100cc moped can usually reach speeds of up to 45 to 60 miles per hour (72 to 97 kilometers per hour). 100cc mopeds have a larger engine capacity, which is why you can get higher top speed compared to 50cc mopeds.
This makes 100cc mopeds a good idea to take along for long distances and traveling on highways with moderate speed limits.
How fast are 125cc mopeds?
A 125cc moped can attain speeds ranging from 50 to 70 miles per hour (80 to 113 kilometers per hour). With more power and more significant acceleration, 125cc mopeds are well-suited for urban and suburban travel.
How fast are 150cc mopeds?
Typically, these mopeds can reach top speeds of 55 to 70 miles per hour. It can even push to 80 mph, depending on some factors.
A 150cc moped is considered one of the faster options in the moped category.
Due to their increased power and speed, 150cc mopeds are suitable for extended commutes and can comfortably handle highway speeds.
How fast are electric mopeds?
An electric moped can reach speeds of 28 to 45 miles per hour (45 to 72 kilometers per hour).
Electric mopeds are becoming increasingly popular these days due to their eco-friendly nature and lower emissions. The top speed of an electric moped greatly depends on its power output and battery capacity.
But electric scooters’ speed ranges also depend on the make and model and of course a heavier rider will slow any moped down.
Is it possible to make your 50cc moped go faster?
50cc mopeds and scooters often contain a special “restrictor” that limits the maximum top speed. This is due to legal reasons.
So, “derestricting” means you remove any restrictor mechanisms that limit the scooter’s or moped’s top speed. If you can do this, your ride can go much faster, even up to 60 mph (depending on the make and model).
But while it’s possible, you must first find out if it’s legal to do so in your state. And even so, in many cases, you need to have a motorcycle license and valid motorcycle insurance.
Currently, the 50cc land speed record is 144.891 miles per hour! It was set by John Buddenbaum, a metal fabricator, and Eric Noyes, a NASA engineer, in 2008. Of course, your derestricted moped may not go as fast.
But it will certainly go faster than usual.
What is the difference between a scooter and a moped?
When it comes to getting a two-wheeled vehicle, many people tend to think that a moped and a scooter are the same. They are similar, but there are some differences. Let’s look at them.
Moped
A moped is essentially a motorized bicycle, with pedals and a small engine, usually between 50cc and 150cc. This type of motor can typically reach speeds of up to 30 to 70 miles per hour.
Mopeds tend to have better fuel economy and are easier to maneuver due to their lightweight design.
The Vespa Primavera is a classic example of a moped. Additionally, if you have a moped with a small engine (such as a 50cc moped), you may not need a motorcycle license.
Scooter
In contrast, a scooter is a step up from a moped in terms of engine size and power. Scooters generally have a more powerful motor, which may range from 50cc to over 500cc. As a result, they can reach higher top speeds, as high as 90 miles per hour.
While they still prioritize fuel efficiency, scooters with larger engines are usually less fuel-efficient than those with smaller engines.
Scooters and mopeds both serve as convenient alternatives to small motorcycles, especially for urban commuting. However, their differences in engine size, power, and design make them suitable for different purposes and preferences.
Is a motorcycle license required for a moped?
As far as legal requirements go, the answer to this question varies. It depends on the location and specific moped laws in your state. This question is also for 50cc mopeds or smaller. Most states classify anything bigger as a “motorcycle”.
In some states, like Connecticut, you only need a valid driver’s license. In some other states, including California, you will need a special moped permit or motorcycle license/endorsement.
However, in six states, you don’t need a motorcycle or driver’s license to ride one. But you may need to register your vehicle. They are Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, North Carolina, Virginia, and Wyoming.
Registration is required for mopeds in most states. You must register it with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and have a license plate.
What about motorcycle insurance for mopeds?
It’s necessary in some locations but not in all. But it’s a good idea to have insurance even if it isn’t required by law.
Conclusion
How fast does a moped go? Mopeds can go as quickly as 30 to 70 miles per hour. But it depends on the size of the engine or engine capacity. Larger engines can reach higher speeds than smaller engines.
Moreover, other factors such as terrain, weather conditions, and even rider weight can also affect the average speed of a moped.
