Mopeds VS E-Bikes - What's Right For You?

Mopeds and electric bikes are both affordable forms of transportation, but there are key differences that set them apart. Prices, maximum speeds, and licensing requirements are all things you need to consider before you can decide which vehicle is right for you.

If you're looking for a mode of transportation that you can ride on fast roadways, then a moped may be best. In contrast, e-bikes are ideal for short-distance commutes and rides. If you're seeking an affordable option for transportation but simply can't decide between a moped or an electric bike, then you're in the right place.

The differences between a moped and an e-bike can't be overstated. Although they are similar in shape, their abilities are vastly different.

Mopeds are faster than e-bikes and can be ridden on most roads. These are the key features of a moped.

• Mopeds can rely on gas engines or electric batteries. Unlike electric bikes, mopeds often use gas engines because they require more power due to higher maximum speeds. However, some mopeds also use electricity as a form of power.
• Mopeds can weigh over 200 pounds. A moped will usually weigh between 100-250 pounds. Heavy weights can make it more difficult to carry or transport the vehicle.
• Mopeds can reach speeds of 50 miles per hour. Mopeds are significantly faster than e-bikes at top speeds. Typically, the top speed of most mopeds is 30-45 MPH. However, the legal speed limit for mopeds varies.
• Mopeds can be driven on sidewalks and roads. Depending on local laws, mopeds can usually be ridden on sidewalks and main roadways while maintaining speeds comparable to cars and other motor vehicles. However, mopeds are rarely allowed on highways.
• Mopeds may need designated parking. Since mopeds are often classified as motor vehicles, they may require designated parking depending on local laws.
• Mopeds may require registration and insurance to ride. Like other motor vehicles, mopeds require registration and insurance to ride legally in some locations.

E-bikes are fantastic vessels of transportation for those who don't need to travel far distances. These are the key features that separate an e-bike from a moped.

• E-bikes are powered by pedaling and using electric batteries. The most useful feature of the e-bike is the ability to power it through pedaling. They also come equipped with an electric battery that can power the bike if you get tired.
• E-bikes offer the opportunity for exercise. Since e-bikes have pedals, you can use them to exercise during your commute or ride.
• E-bikes only weigh 30-100 pounds. Unlike mopeds, e-bikes are light and usually weigh 100 pounds or less.
• E-bikes can reach speeds of 25 miles per hour. Most e-bikes have a maximum speed of about 15 MPH, but some can be faster than 25 MPH at maximum speed.
• E-bikes can be ridden on sidewalks and bike trails. Although you can ride electric bikes on some roads, it's often unsafe and even illegal. The primary places that e-bikes can be legally ridden are on sidewalks and nature trails.
• E-bikes are environmentally friendly. Electric batteries and the ability to pedal offer a more environmentally sustainable option for transportation compared to mopeds, especially if they're gas-powered. Research by Ian Phillips, Tim Chatterton, and Jillian Annable in recent years shows the potential for electric bikes to reduce carbon dioxide emissions significantly with widespread use.

One of the biggest differences that sets mopeds apart from e-bikes is the price tag. Mopeds are generally more expensive than electric bikes due to better materials and higher production quality.

The price of a moped ranges between $600 and $4000. Mopeds are manufactured using durable metals and a powerful electric battery, which is why they're so expensive. You also need to consider the cost of insurance, which is a requirement for riding mopeds in some places.

E-bikes cost between $500 and $3000. E-bikes usually come equipped with an electric battery, which is the primary component that makes them more expensive than a regular bicycle. 

To learn more about the average price of an e-bike, you can read our article about electric bike prices.

Both mopeds and e-bikes may require a license to ride depending on local laws, but mopeds are more likely to mandate licensing since they are often driven on main roads.

Mopeds often require a license to drive on public roads. Depending on country, state, and local laws, a moped might require a Driver's License, Motorcycle License, or a unique type of license to operate legally.

E-bikes usually don't require a license to ride. Rarely a country or state may require a license to operate an e-bike, but you don't need one in most locations.

Mopeds are mid-priced street-legal vehicles, while e-bikes are ideal for short-distance cycling. Although the cost of both can be similar on the lower end, mopeds are typically more expensive due to high-quality metals and materials.

Deciding between buying a moped or an e-bike is challenging, but the choice becomes clear once you understand the key abilities and limitations of both modes of transportation. HappyRun has a selection of moped-style electric bikes, such as the Tank G60 Pro 1000W Moped-Style Electric Bike.