If you’re thinking about buying a moped, it’s essential to understand how your state views this vehicle. In some places, they are classified as motorized bicycles while in others they are considered motorcycles.
In New York State, the Department of Motor Vehicles classes mopeds according to their maximum speed. Class A mopeds are the fastest and can go over 30 mph; however they must also obtain registration and insurance in order to operate.
License Requirements
Before taking your moped out on the highway, be sure to research licensing requirements in your state. Most require that you possess either a driver’s license or learner permit in order to operate a moped on public roads.
Connecticut – To drive a moped in Connecticut, you don’t need a motorcycle license or endorsement. However, you still need your standard driver’s license. Furthermore, it is mandatory that you wear a helmet and obey all traffic laws.
Maine – Driving a moped in Maine follows the same rules as driving any other type of vehicle. The main exception is that you must always ride in the right lane or shoulder, unless you are turning left.
New York requires those with mopeds or 50cc scooters to have a Class A limited-use motorcycle license in order to ride within the state. Your vehicle must first be licensed and inspected before you can legally take it out on the highway.
Safety Tips
When riding a moped, it is essential to show respect for other drivers and pedestrians. Furthermore, obey traffic rules, use signals properly and drive at the speed limit.
Violating any of these safety guidelines will put you at greater risk, so it is imperative that you take the time to learn them.
Before anything else, ensure you possess a valid driver’s license and have been properly trained on how to ride your moped safely and confidently. There are plenty of training courses available that can assist in developing these essential skillsets for safe riding on two wheels.
Second, be mindful of the weather. Rain and leaves can make the pavement slippery and difficult to see, making it important to pay attention when driving.
Before riding your moped, always be aware of the weather conditions and pay attention to them. Furthermore, wearing brightly-colored clothing or other reflective gear can make it easier for other drivers to spot you quickly.
Training Courses
Many states provide training courses to equip riders with the fundamental mental and physical capabilities required for safe motorcycle riding. These classes are provided through various third-party motorcycle safety organizations.
This course covers the essentials of safe driving techniques, such as braking, turning and cornering. Furthermore, students will gain insight into how to manage emergency scenarios.
After successful completion of the CBT, students will receive a certificate (DL196) allowing them to ride legally on public roads unaccompanied. This document has an expiration date of two years.
To take the CBT, participants must possess either a valid driver’s license or Class “M” (motorcycle) learner’s permit. Furthermore, their parent/guardian must be present at the first class to sign a waiver form.
During the on-cycle portion of the CBT, participants will receive instruction on school-provided 3-wheel training units with two wheels in front and one at the back. However, students may bring their own street-legal 3-wheel motorcycle to class as well.
Insurance
Many states require you to carry liability insurance when riding a moped on the highway, especially if it has an engine of over 50 cubic centimeters and can reach speeds of 30 miles per hour or higher. Most states exempt bicycles and Razor-like scooters with small motors from these regulations.
Some states also provide optional coverages like medical payments and uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. The latter can protect you if someone hits you without insurance, leading to injuries.
Moped and scooter insurance costs vary between insurers, but typically offer a lower rate than car policies. Plus, many insurers offer multi-policy discounts when you bundle coverage with other types of policies, according to Millar.
Chris is a passionate learner and writer. When he’s not working on his blog or learning something new, he’s a full-time systems administrator and father of two beautiful girls. Chris loves spending time with his family, reading, writing, and playing hockey.