How to choose scooters and mopeds up to 50cc 2022 - 2022: review of the best, prices, reviews

Questions from the category “what is better” are most often incorrect. We need to pose the question differently - what is best/suitable for me? There is nothing better or perfect - neither is technology today. What's better, a scooter or a moped for rural areas?

Always start from your requirements for something. In most cases, it is even pointless to ask owners of scooters, mopeds, and motorcycles what you should buy. They will recommend based on their technical requirements.

As a result, it doesn’t matter whether you buy a scooter or a moped, in any case you will encounter some disadvantages. The main thing is that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.

Fundamental differences

How, in principle, a moped differs from a scooter - let's find out, and start with the distinctive features of a moped. For a moped it is typical:

• larger wheel diameter
• appearance similar to a motorcycle (riding like a horse)
• Manual Transmission
• virtual absence of decorative plastic.

What can a scooter do against this:

• smaller wheel diameter
• comfortable seating (like in a chair)
• decorative plastic – more attractive appearance
• automatic transmission (variator).

These parameters are what distinguish such similar (for the uninformed) vehicles. Otherwise, they are similar - they have two wheels, save fuel, are easy to maintain and repair, and require a category M or A1 license (depending on engine size).

From the history of motor transport

The first production motorcycle appeared in 1901. The creators were the Werner brothers, who successfully patented their invention first, although there had been attempts to do something similar before (bicycles with steam and gasoline engines by Pierre Michaud, Wilhelm Maybach, Gottlieb Daimler and others). It was a Werner motorcycle, a clumsy, heavy machine, which, however, became quite popular among couriers and postmen. The gasoline 4-stroke engine located between the wheels had a power of 0.75 hp. s., the transport reached a speed of approximately 35 km/h. Electric ignition was later added. The Werner model proved popular, with 3,500 cars sold in the first year. And motorcycles have firmly established themselves in various segments.

A modification of the motorcycle - a motor scooter, later called a scooter - was created at the beginning of the 20th century in Italy by the Piaggio company to move around the vast territories of industrial enterprises, so that employees would not spend many hours moving between workshops. The vehicle was not intended for public roads, so it had a different seating position, small wheels, and a low-power engine. Scooters have spread among city dwellers, especially in metropolitan areas.

A motorcycle and a scooter are different types of transport; when riding them, different categories are required on your driver's license. At the same time, they are similar in design, both are two-wheeled, have the same weight and almost similar cost, which sometimes confuses those who are just starting to enter the world of motorcycles. There are models that are approximately the same in size and weight. So what should a beginner choose? Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of these types.

Mopeds

Now let's learn more about the advantages of mopeds. It is definitely worth pointing out their shortcomings. After analyzing the following data and comparing all the pros and cons, you can decide whether you need a moped.

Advantages of a moped

• Appearance. A moped similar to motorcycles will delight teenage audiences. Usually young people want to have a big, powerful motorcycle, but they don’t have enough money for it or it’s too big and heavy. In this case, a moped will come in handy - a kind of “mini-motorcycle” with enough power for a teenager.
• Access to details. Due to the absence of decorative plastic, access directly to the engine, transmission, shock absorbers and other parts is easier. This factor makes repairs pleasant, because you don’t have to remove all the interfering plastic every time.
• Low fuel consumption. The amount of fuel consumed per 100 km is about 2 liters. Consumption depends on driving style, engine condition and fuel quality.
• Manual Transmission. The presence of a manual transmission allows the driver to learn how to operate the clutch, which will be useful when changing from a moped to a car. Independent gear selection while driving can significantly reduce fuel consumption, down to 1.5 l/100 km.
• The large wheel diameter and high ground clearance allow the moped to ride confidently on bad roads and off-road. The moped is ideal for the village.
• Load capacity. The strong frame and the absence of plastic allow you to load anything on the moped. This property is also very useful for rural areas or summer residents.
• Acceleration and speed. Compared to a scooter of the same power, a moped will accelerate faster and can maintain a higher speed.
• Price. A moped usually has a lower cost than a scooter. The price may differ by 5-8 thousand rubles with the same characteristics.

Characteristics taken into account when choosing a chopper

What should a novice motorcyclist consider when choosing his first bike? Consider the motorcycle from several parameters at once, such as quality, reliability, manufacturability and others.

Manufacturer

Classic models are produced by the American motorcycle company Harley Davidson, a leader and trendsetter in the chopper segment. Japanese manufacturers Yamaha, Honda and others compete with it

Motorcycle companies from the Land of the Rising Sun pay attention to the latest technologies, making their products reliable, durable, and safe.

Of course, it is better to choose a well-known manufacturer that has proven itself in this market segment.

Engine displacement

Choppers are very profitable in terms of efficiency and are also attractive in price. Models with a large engine capacity, 750–1100 cc, are often chosen.

The cheapest and most economical low-capacity motorcycles, this is the best option for beginners. If your financial capabilities are small, it is recommended to purchase a 400cc class motorcycle.

Please note: the more powerful the chopper, the larger its dimensions and, accordingly, its weight.

engine's type

The most popular are V-shaped 2-cylinder engines with liquid cooling and two overhead camshafts. To drive the rear wheel, the best option is a universal joint. Belt and chain drives are less preferred.

Scooters

Now let's find out what a scooter will give its owner. Let's discuss its advantages and disadvantages, and then find out why it is better and worse than a moped.

Hollywood actress Milla Jovovich also uses a scooter

Pros of a scooter

• Appearance. The scooter looks very good - its decorative plastic attracts many glances and pleases the eyes of the owner and passers-by.
• Automatic transmission or CVT. The presence of an automatic transmission allows the scooter to smoothly gain speed and accelerate. There is no need to constantly change gears with your foot.
• Wide wheels prevent slipping on wet and slippery surfaces, as well as mud.
• Fuel consumption. Like a moped, the fuel consumption of a scooter will be close to 2-3 liters per 100 km. This is very little and the cost of travel is often less than on public transport.
• Comfortable fit. The scooter seat allows the rider to feel like he is sitting on a chair or even a comfortable armchair and a luxurious sofa. Seat comfort largely depends on the price of the vehicle, but even the cheapest scooters are comfortable to ride.
• Aerodynamics. Plastic not only creates a beautiful appearance. Plastic allows the scooter to better cut through the air flow, which reduces fuel consumption.
• Comfort. Comfortable seating position, automatic transmission and soft suspension make the scooter ideal for moving around the city.

The fastest models

When considering scooter brands, many focus primarily on top speed and then other characteristics, although the speed of most 50cc models is about the same.

HONDA DIO AF68

The Honda Dio AF68 scooter is a “classic of the genre”. It is liquid cooled and features record low fuel consumption. At a cruising speed of 30 km/h, the scooter needs only 1.25 liters per hundred. The four-stroke engine with injection provides acceleration of up to 60 km/h.

Stels Skif 50

The domestically produced model has small dimensions and good characteristics. 4.9 hp two-stroke engine. with a carburetor power system, the moped quickly accelerates to 65 km/h. Fast stopping is ensured by the front hydraulic disc brake.

Model StelsSkif 50

Irbis LX 50

A domestically produced moped of the Irbis brand, equipped with a 3 hp engine, does not exceed the 65-kilometer speed threshold. The distinctive features of a four-stroke moped are reliability, reliability, fast acceleration and efficiency.

Sports scooter

When choosing a scooter model, many are looking for a reliable 50cc scooter. Others are trying to choose the most powerful 50cc scooter. Remember that products from well-known manufacturers such as Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki are reliable and have excellent dynamics with a small cubic capacity.

Double reliable models

Many lovers of long journeys and shared walks like 50cc double scooters, which are produced by different manufacturers. It is difficult to answer which of them is the most reliable moped, but we can definitely say that Japanese-made two-seater models have never let their owners down. The domestic model Irbis LX 50, equipped with a seat for a passenger, has also proven itself positively.

A two-seater scooter for long-distance travel enthusiasts

Moto scooters

A separate branch of two-wheeled transport is motor scooters . A prominent representative is Viper Active . Let's find out what he is.

As the name suggests, a moto-scooter combines a moped and a scooter. For example, the engine of such vehicles is often equipped with a semi-automatic gearbox - the speeds are switched using a foot lever, but there is no need to depress the clutch.

Large wheels, like those on a moped, allow you to quickly gain speed and calmly move off-road. Engine, 125 cc. allows you to reach speeds of up to 120 km/h. The presence of decorative plastic gives the motorcycle scooter a pleasant appearance. The seating position is somewhere between a moped and a scooter.

Giants for big guys

Maxi is a scooter size for true connoisseurs. Many models implement a new structure system - a separate movable lever attached to a stationary engine and gearbox. This system gives stability, rigidity and reliability to the scooter.

Once again Honda showed everyone how to make maxi scooters. Honda Silverwing is a huge monster, equipped with a 2-cylinder in-line engine, the displacement of which is as much as 600 cubic meters! Some parts are similar to motorcycle ones. Among other things, we can highlight the presence of ABS:

Scooter Honda Silverwing

The Yamaha T-max stands out among its competitors. Also a strong monster, hiding 500 cubic centimeters. The engine is located in front of the driver, rather than on the rear wheel as usual. From a powerful variator, torque is transmitted to the rear wheel by a chain drive. The tubular frame is connected to the wheels via a rear shock absorber and a front telescopic fork. Thanks to the design (and not only) it is recognized as one of the best maxi scooters!

Yamaha Tmax

And here comes the Piaggio Beverly 500 - a powerful and reliable maxi-scooter of the Gran Turismo class. Belonging to a class indicates its mandatory comfort. This is confirmed not only by soft seats, but also by large wheels, two rear shock absorbers, and Kayaba front forks. The 3-disc disc brake system will ensure soft and timely braking of this large device. The package even includes an immobilizer and a mobile phone charger.

Scooter Piaggio Beverly

There are countless scooter models

And every day more and more new scooters appear that can win the attention and recognition of buyers. This article reviewed only some of the best scooters, the best quality and pricing policy

Design features

A moped is most often a two-wheeled, less often a three-wheeled vehicle designed for traveling short distances. This is an economical mode of transport, as gasoline consumption is minimal. Engine capacity no more than 50 cc, maximum speed 50 km/h. A distinctive feature of the moped is the absence of a gearbox. The speed is adjusted using the right steering wheel; By making rotational movements, you can add gas or, conversely, reduce the speed. There is also a front brake there. In order to set the moped in motion, you need to rotate the pedals in the opposite direction.

Structurally, a scooter is a relative of a motorcycle, but has a slightly smaller wheel diameter (8-14 inches) and is lighter in weight. The scooter's gearbox is a V-belt variator. The engine capacity is from 50 to 250 cm3, and accordingly it can reach high speeds, from 50 to 120 km/h. The rear brake is controlled using a lever located on the left handlebar. The scooter is controlled only with the help of the hands, the legs do not take part in this. A special feature of the scooter is a special footrest, the so-called “floor”. The design also includes a body.

Moped

Scooter

Comparative video review

We invite you to watch the video review “Scooter vs Moped - Which is better to buy?” (author: Yamahovod)

To summarize, we can come to the following conclusions. A moped (alpha or delta) is more suitable for rural areas and for young people who want to buy a motorcycle, but do not have the opportunity. A scooter will be the right solution if the goal is comfortable movement on city roads. The scooter is more popular among the female population, as it is easier to operate than a moped.

Choosing what to pay attention to

When choosing a vehicle, you need to consider what roads you will be driving on. A moped is better suited for driving on country roads. It has larger wheels that allow you to safely drive on roads with potholes and bumps.

The scooter is more suitable for urban conditions. Thanks to the CVT, driving in traffic jams, with constant acceleration and braking, is more comfortable. It is also worth considering the subtleties associated with controllability.

The scooter is more suitable for people who have little experience in driving two-wheeled vehicles.

In appearance, each person has his own preferences. Some people will prefer a moped, as it is very similar to a motorcycle. And others will like the scooter because of its modern design.

Pros and cons of technology

Let us now consider separately what opportunities scooters and motorcycles provide and how they differ, especially for those starting to master this technique.

• Automatic transmission;
• lack of clutch is convenient when driving in traffic jams;
• when landing, you do not need to throw your leg over the body;
• comfortable for any driver height;
• protects the driver’s feet from rain, tree branches, grass;
• protects the driver and passenger better in cold weather thanks to the large front shield;
• compactness and solid plastic construction reduce fragility when dropped;
• low speeds increase safety;
• It’s easy to find a parking spot;
• efficiency due to small cubic capacity;
• it is not necessary to undergo maintenance or obtain insurance;
• there is a platform for transporting goods;
• the ability to ride in any clothes;
• comfortable seat for the passenger;
• A large trunk, allowing you to take everything you need, is the main advantage of this technology.

Disadvantages compared to a motorcycle:

• small wheels that react to uneven roads;
• not recommended for off-road use;
• problematic maintenance, repairs due to the need to remove many parts;
• instability;
• the driver does not support himself with his legs and does not regulate the vehicle with them;
• impacts from the rear wheel are painfully felt on the driver’s spine;
• poor handling due to short-travel suspension;
• limited possibilities for speed, maneuverability, and lane changes.

Advantages and differences between a motorcycle and a scooter:

• high power;
• maneuverability in traffic flow;
• good stability;
• improved handling due to the low seating position and the ability to interact with the body of the bike with your legs;
• large wheels reduce sensitivity to road unevenness;
• long-travel suspension allows driving on off-road roads, steps, curbs;
• easy accessibility of individual parts for repairs and maintenance.

• additional costs for insurance, tax payments, when registering with the traffic police;
• high fuel costs depending on cubic capacity;
• high speeds imply less safety, especially with little driving experience;
• the need for additional fastening for luggage racks;
• The driver's height is assumed to be at least 170 cm.

So, a scooter is an excellent vehicle for traveling to the country, fishing, moving around the city, and transporting small loads. A motorcycle is a more serious option and requires a driver’s license.

If you plan to ride a motorcycle all the time, then it is recommended to immediately purchase a bike, not a scooter, and learn how to ride it. This will help you develop the correct posture and teach you how to control motor vehicles. If you know how to drive a motorcycle, you will be able to ride a scooter, but the skills to drive a scooter will not allow you to operate a bike without additional training.

What to buy?

This article provides various criteria for choosing a particular vehicle. Having thought about the purpose of purchasing a two-wheeled friend and carefully studying the article, everyone can decide for themselves: to buy him a scooter or a moped. Or the choice may fall on a mixture - a motorcycle scooter that combines the advantages of both competitors.

The choice of a manufacturer's brand always remains with the individual - in this matter one can only rely on the reviews of the owners. And this is a completely different story...