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Ebikes VS Mopeds

Ebikes VS Mopeds

January 15, 2021

Are you in the moped or ebike market but you're not sure which one you should choose? Maybe you were looking into ebikes and wondered, “Aren’t these just mopeds?” Regardless of the reason you landed here, we are here to clear things up!

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the differences between ebikes and mopeds, as well as a few things you should consider before purchasing one for yourself. Continue reading below to learn more about the many benefits each has for you.

What is an Electric Bike?

An ebike can be described as a lightweight open vehicle with a motor that uses electricity and gives power when a rider starts pedaling. The distinguishing aspect between motor bikes such as a moped and electric bikes is that ebikes weigh far less than their counterparts and can be pedaled much like a regular bike. Most mopeds today do not have pedals.

Additionally, there are several types of electric bikes, ranging from smaller motors to faster, more powerful electric motors that can travel up to maximum speeds near 30 MPH. Overall, electric bikes deliver the most unique and flexible features of two-wheeled vehicles.

As newer and more effective means of personal transportation are developed and implemented, the electric bike industry will only continue to expand in the coming years. It's therefore no wonder that more and more people are choosing electric bikes over traditional ones, and even though the latter has been around for a long time, sales of electric bikes are skyrocketing and are expected to continue doing so.

Things to Consider Before Buying an Electric Bike

As electric bikes continue to gain popularity across the globe, more and more people are beginning to explore all the ins and outs of the ebike.

Let’s explore some of the things worth considering before purchasing an ebike.

Laws & Registration

Ebike laws vary from state to state and can sometimes be confusing. The vast majority of states in the US do not require riders to register their ebikes as a motorized vehicle. Therefore, you can start riding as soon as you get your ebike. There are, however, very few states where ebikes are regulated as a motor vehicle or moped which have registration requirements.  Peopleforbikes.org is a great resource of information where you can look up your state’s laws and regulations.

Driving School

This is one of the most critical aspects of using an electric bike because, unlike cars or motorcycles, you don't have to attend a driving school or take a driving test before driving an ebike. However, if you don't know how to use an ebike, you may want to read about it before you make a purchase.

Insurance

Insurance is always an excellent idea, but it's not mandatory to cover your new electric bike if you don’t wish to pay. That said, you may still want to consider it if you want to protect yourself against robbery. Like any other bike, they can be subjected to robbery if you don't have a proper ebike lock or if you forget to take your removable battery with you.  Read our blog on ebike insurance to help you decide if it is right for you.

Safety Gear

Safety is always important when riding a conventional bicycle and riding an ebike is no different. While it may not be the law in some states, we always recommend and encourage everyone to wear helmets when riding an ebike. Check your local state laws to know more about bike helmet laws.

Parking

While bike parking is not as popular as car parking, most places do have a place to keep your electric bicycle safe. Compactness is where ebikes really shine, and there are several foldable ebike versions that can fit comfortably in car trunks and cramped apartments.

Fuel

As you get from your name, an ebike is powered by electricity, and it usually costs between $0.03 and $0.05 on average to get it fully charged with an average battery life lasting for around 20 to 40 miles depending on how you ride.

Maintenance

Like every other vehicle, electric bikes need regular maintenance to keep things secure and functional. There still is a silver lining—your estimated expenses come to roughly $75 per year, which is relatively affordable. To learn more about ebike maintenance and what that entails, check out our ebike maintenance schedule and guide.

What is a Moped?

A moped is a type of electric vehicle that often gets confused for scooters because of their structural similarities.

When it comes to mopeds, “mo” stands for motor, while “ped” stands for the pedal.

A moped can be defined as a relatively light vehicle with an engine and foot platform for the rider to rest their feet on like on a scooter. Additionally, with the exception of electric mopeds, keep in mind that traditional mopeds are powered by gas engines which is a significant difference when comparing electric bike vs. moped riding.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Moped

Much like an electric bike, the moped also has several things you should consider before purchasing a moped.

Registration

You are required by legal requirements to register your moped before you go anywhere with it. The cost can vary depending on the state or region. On average, moped registration costs anywhere between $100 and $150 a year.

Driving School

Although some consider driving school to be a must, others do not, and no one claims that it can be helpful. If you do plan on taking a driving school for your moped, it will cost around $28 on average. Check your local state laws for more information.

Insurance

Insurance may always seem like a hassle, but it's never a bad idea to have your moped insured. Moped insurance protects against mishaps, mainly if your moped's engine is relatively large.

Safety Gear

Unlike ebikes, one of the legal requirements is wearing a helmet while riding a moped. A moped will generally hit a higher speed than an electric bicycle, so it's only smart to keep yourself protected from potential accidents on the road.

Maintenance

Unfortunately, gas-fueled mopeds are more likely to break down than electric bicycles. However, that may depend on the initial state of the moped when you purchase it, the way you drive it, and the environmental conditions of the region you're going to use it.

What are the Differences Between a moped and an electric bike?

As we’ve mentioned, each option has several outstanding characteristics that make it unique. However, there is much more than meets the eye.

Let's take a quick look at some of the key differences to help you make the best decision possible.

  • Electric bike vs moped riding experience: An electric bicycle will give you an experience that is similar to the one offered by a standard bike with far less fatigue, while a moped is more similar to a motor bike and is subject to laws equivalent to those of an automobile.
  • Electric bike vs moped accessibility: Because an electric bicycle is considered to be much like a standard bike, riders will be able to enter most parks and motor-restricted areas, and they can also be used to travel within a city, around town, or to do some off-road traveling on bike lanes or off bike lanes; electric mopeds are limited because they can only travel on regular roads and can't be parked in bicycle parking spaces.
  • Difference between electric bike and moped emissions: Ebikes are also a greener alternative to a gas powered moped because they do not contain greenhouse gases or harmful fumes.
  • Electric bike vs moped maintenance: They both have normal maintenance costs associated with them, but each choice is a much cheaper option than a regular car, truck, or SUV.
  • When comparing the e bike vs electric moped, ebikes also have much lower maintenance costs compared to electric mopeds.
  • Moped vs electric bike market availability: There is a broader range of second-hand mopeds available on the market if you would prefer to find one that is more affordable.
  • Difference between electric bike and moped operating licenses: Mopeds in the United States often require a license and registration, as well as some form of registration, whereas electric bicycles do not require a license, registration, or insurance in most states. There are a few state exceptions where ebikes are treated as mopeds.

 

Find What's Best for You

Both options are well worth the consideration. Although the moped has been the most popular option among commuters for quite some time, as they have been around much longer, electric bicycles combine state-of-the-art technology with greener technology to provide riders with loads of excitement.

Ultimately, which one you choose will come down to which option provides you with the most benefits for your needs and lifestyle.

Whichever option you end up picking for yourself, chances are you'll find it to be a much greener, healthier, more exciting option than driving and sitting in traffic, and less stress and anxiety-inducing than public transport.

Shop for Your Ebike with Aventon

As you can see, there are plenty of differences between ebikes and an electric moped. Regardless of which option you choose, we’re optimistic you will be happy you made the investment.

Have you been dreaming of getting yourself an ebike as an alternative method of transportation or something to add some excitement to your life?

At Aventon, we believe that you should never underestimate the consistency of your tires when it comes to protection and efficiency. We want to help you find the right ebike for you, one that's bound to last you for years and years to come.

If you need help choosing the right e-bike for you this year, contact Aventon today to learn more about our fantastic selection.

1 comment
Marty Smith May 05, 2021

Aloha, we have 2 Pace 500’s at our Oceanside home which we love for around town. We are avid trail riders and wondering if you’re working an actual electric mountain ebike design? Pls let me know and if so, your appx timeline. mahalo marty smith

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