Why would people ride a moped instead of a regular bike or motorcycle?

Question

Moped is half bike and half motorcycle,right? I've never seen people riding mopeds here in Southern California where I live.

Answer 1

I don't know if the term moped is the same in the US as it is here in the UK. Here's what I perceive to be a moped:

http://image.ec21.com/image/btmotor/oimg...

In Britain you don't need a full licence to be able to drive one, they're relatively cheap and easy to maintain and with the small engine, tax and such will be less. I suppose that's why they're quite popular here.

They're f***ing loud though, annoyingly loud and most of people who ride them seem to be about 16 years old...I despise mopeds

Answer 2

You will see them more as gas prices go higher.  

Mopeds (see link) or scooters or motorized bicycles are primarily a European conveyance, although they are increasingly seen in North America. There are over 180 brands worldwide, arguably the most well known being Vespa.

Mopeds are like a sedate, smaller wheeled   and low powered version of a motorcycle. They typically get 60-100 mpg. Great for a quick trip to the store or basic commuting.  Licensing requirements can be more relaxed (usually based on engine size and/or top speed) than for true motorcycles or cars (but not necessarily making them less popular in some jurisdictions).

Bicycles take leg power, so many people who don't want to get sweaty on the way to work might choose a moped.

Answer 3

Mopeds or scooters under 50cc don't require a special endorsement like a motorcycle does.  Tom, the picture you linked to would be considered a scooter here in the U.S.  A moped still has bicycle pedals on it to get it started or theoretically you can ride it like a bike.  I don't think I've seen a real moped in years.  I think its just a matter of personal choice and maybe the perceived danger of motorcycles.  Although I doubt you are any safer on a scooter than you are on a motorcycle.  It would be a lot less effort to commute on a moped than a bicycle.  I would think that would be obvious though.