Have you ever considered how fast those small mopeds zipping around city streets can actually go?
Are You Thinking About Purchasing or Exploring Mopeds? Knowing their speed limits will give you an idea of what awaits riding one.
Let's explore the realities of moped speeds, from 50cc engines to more powerful 150cc models.
Yes, we will also cover the growing popularity of electric mopeds.
After your ride, you'll know exactly which machines can provide maximum speed and which best suits your riding style.
How Fast Are Mopeds?
So, how fast are mopeds?
If your perception of scooters as slow-moving contraptions that barely keep up with a walking pace needs to change, now may be the time for that to change.
Mopeds may not be racing machines, but they pack faster than you realize.
Mopeds come equipped with various engines, allowing them to travel anywhere between 30 mph and 70+ mph, depending on engine capacity.
Yes, mopeds can keep up with cars on highways, while others are best used on city streets where speed may not always be essential.
But top speed alone doesn't matter; what matters more is how riding feels.
Mopeding around town on a moped offers freedom, convenience, and that wind-in-your-hair sensation all in one thrilling package.
Are you looking for information on moped speeds or other modes of transportation? Or are you preparing to buy an electric motorcycle for your child? Knowing the speed of a moped will help you make a choice.
50cc Mopeds Are Perfect for Beginners
Let's begin our exploration with the 50cc engine size, which is one of the smallest engine capacities available in mopeds today.
A 50cc moped may not blow you away, but it has more capacity than you might realize.
On a good day with flat roads and no significant headwind, cyclists may reach 30 to 35 mph.
That may not seem like much, but it can often be just right for zipping around town.
No one expects you to win any races, but at least you'll arrive at your destination with a smile.
And you'll likely have more fuel left than a car.
Mopeds have long been a favourite vehicle choice in dense urban environments, where manoeuvrability is more important than speed.
Imagine maneuvering through rush-hour traffic at 35 mph—it feels like flying compared to all the stationary cars surrounding you.
What happens when the road turns upward, or you add extra weight, like groceries or passengers?
That is when you will become aware of any limitations.
Steep hills can quickly reduce your speed to 20 mph or less, prompting you to wish you had more horsepower under the hood.
| Speed | Engine | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 30-35 mph | 50cc | City streets, short commutes |
60cc Mopeds: A Small but Noticeable Bump
If your 50cc moped just isn't cutting it anymore, perhaps a 60cc model could be more to your taste--literally speaking!
Assuming you still prefer lightweight bikes with easy handling capabilities but with slightly increased power output.
On flat roads, you could reach speeds approaching 40 mph.
An extra few miles may not seem like much, but they can make all the difference when keeping pace with city traffic.
An extra engine power is handy when driving over hills or carrying more than yourself.
It's like having an extra push when needed--nothing dramatic, but enough to help build confidence that you won't fall too far behind when the light turns green.
| Speed | Engine | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 35-40 mph | 60cc | Urban commutes, moderate hills |
70cc Mopeds: Getting into the Comfort Zone
Now we're talking.
A 70cc moped offers the kind of speed and versatility that goes beyond simply serving as an urban vehicle.
At 45 mph, riders reach a point where they can comfortably ride on roads with faster-moving traffic.
Mopeds feel less like "just" and more like true commuter vehicles.
Imagine yourself making the trek from a suburban area into the city.
Your routes consist of various roads, some fast and some slow, and there may even be hills here and there.
A 70cc moped is versatile enough to meet all these challenges without overwhelming its engine.
They are still agile enough for city streets, yet no longer bound by them.
Mopeds Are Versatile Commuter Solutions
Upgrading to an 80cc moped opens up even more potential.
Your top speed could now reach closer to 50 mph, which makes a noticeable difference when traveling over longer stretches.
Transporting people efficiently and comfortably between destinations should not just be about getting there; it should be done effectively and comfortably.
Long commutes should not be daunting; even on roads where traffic moves at 45-50 mph, you should be able to keep pace without breaking a sweat.
Consider it this way: an 80cc moped represents an excellent middle ground between small scooters and motorcycles.
Fast enough for almost anywhere travel, yet easy and economical to ride and run.
| Speed | Engine | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 40-45 mph | 70cc | Suburban commutes, versatile use |
Read more: Motorcycle Weights: Understanding How Various Models Compare
90cc Mopeds: Almost a Motorcycle
As soon as your engine surpasses 90cc, you enter a different category.
These mopeds can reach 55 mph or faster speeds, making them suitable for use on various roads - including some light highway traffic.
Now is not simply buying a moped for convenience--you are purchasing it to meet performance needs.
A 90cc moped gives you a taste of motorcycle power without needing a motorcycle license in many locations.
Now, the wind begins to make itself known, not just because you're moving faster.
Your bike can keep up with the demands of more serious riding, whether that means longer distances, higher speeds, or hauling additional weight.
Enjoy the convenience and efficiency of a moped!
| Speed | Engine | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 50-55 mph | 90cc | Highway use, performance-focused riding |
100cc Mopeds: For the Serious Rider
A 100cc moped marks where a moped and motorcycle become indistinguishable.
At speeds up to 60 mph, these machines are tailored for riders looking for something more than a city runabout.
Are You Looking for a 100cc Moped for Long Commuting Trips or Versatile Terrain Riding? A 100cc moped is more than capable of meeting these demands.
What's great about a 100cc moped is that it provides ample power for almost any situation.
No need to feel restricted by speed or terrain - you can even venture onto highways if the local laws allow!
This makes the moped an excellent option for someone who wants the convenience of moped riding but needs something with greater performance capabilities.
| Speed | Engine | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 55-60 mph | 100cc | Long commutes, highway riding |
125cc and 150cc Mopeds: The Heavy Hitters
Finally, we arrive at mopeds with engine sizes of 125cc and 150cc, which represent the mainstays of moped culture.
These mopeds can reach 70 mph or faster speeds, making them suitable for highway driving and longer journeys.
At this level, you are effectively riding a small motorcycle, complete with its inherent power and speed.
Look no further if you need a moped that can handle any road condition or terrain. Here is where you should begin your search.
These machines are ideal options for anyone seeking a primary mode of transportation, not only as an additional means.
No matter where your journey may lead you, from city streets and rural roads to highways - 125cc or 150cc mopeds offer reliable transport solutions.
| Speed | Engine | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 60-70 mph | 125cc-150cc | Primary transportation, highway use |
Electric Mopeds: Quiet, Efficient, and Surprisingly Fast
New to the scene are electric mopeds.
Never be fooled by their quiet appearance: these machines can pack an unexpected punch!
Electric mopeds vary significantly depending on their model, reaching 30mph on more basic versions and 60+ mph on high-performance models.
What's so intriguing about electric mopeds is their instant torque, which enables them to get up and running more quickly than you might anticipate.
Electric mopeds offer eco-conscious individuals a low-maintenance vehicle capable of offering serious performance.
No matter where your journey takes you, an electric moped provides an enjoyable, quiet, and unexpectedly powerful ride.
| Speed | Engine | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 30-60 mph | Electric | Eco-friendly commuting, city rides |
Moped Safety Considerations: Speed vs. Control
Let's talk safety. Easily caught up in the thrill of speed, it can be easy to lose control when going faster, but as with anything that requires greater force, greater control is required.
As your speed increases, maintaining full control of your moped becomes increasingly essential when navigating traffic or abrupt changes on the road.
At higher speeds, your braking distance increases significantly.
As such, you will need to plan and allow more time for yourself to slow down.
Remember that your moped's handling characteristics change drastically at higher speeds.
At 30 mph, a moped may feel agile and responsive; at 60 mph, however, its handling could become less stable.
Understanding the delicate balance between speed and control is key.
Remember the significance of wearing appropriate safety equipment.
When riding faster mopeds, including when children are riding, always wear the proper helmet, gloves, and protective clothing.
No matter your confidence levels, safety must always come first.
Consider road conditions.
Slick roads, gravel surfaces, and other obstacles become even more hazardous at higher speeds.
Riding at the maximum speed range on your moped may be exciting but not worth the risk if it jeopardises safety.
Conclusion
So, how fast do 50cc to 150cc mopeds and electric mopeds travel?
The answer depends on the needs and goals you have in mind.
If you're looking for something simple and accessible for city trips, a 50cc moped could be the answer.
Changing to a 70cc or 90cc model might be ideal if your rides involve longer distances on faster roads.
If you seek speed and versatility, 100cc to 150cc motorized scooters or high-powered electric mopeds will provide the performance you need.
At its core, the perfect moped will depend on what best suits your lifestyle and riding preferences.
When selecting a moped that will provide maximum enjoyment and convenience on the road, take your time.
FAQs
What is the top speed of a 50cc moped?
A 50cc moped typically reaches speeds of 30 to 35 mph, making it ideal for city commuting.
Can a 150cc moped be used on highways?
Yes, a 150cc moped can reach speeds up to 70 mph, suitable for highway use.
Are electric mopeds faster than gas mopeds?
Electric mopeds can reach speeds up to 60 mph, comparable to mid-range gas mopeds, with instant acceleration.
