Electric Moped myths debunked!
There’s no shortage of misinformation online when it comes to electric mopeds. From claims that you can ride one on a car licence alone, to the belief that insurance isn’t needed or even that you can cruise along in bicycle lanes, many of these “facts” are simply not true. In this article, we’re setting the record straight by debunking the most common myths surrounding electric mopeds.
Myth 1) “Electric Mopeds don't need insurance.”
Truth: All mopeds used on public roads must be insured, even electric ones.
Myth 2) “If it’s electric, it’s treated like an e-bike”
Truth: If it has no pedals and runs on a throttle, it is not an e-bike but a motor vehicle and you need a license, insurance, and registration. Even if it has pedals and no throttle, if the motor is over 250W or the bike can go over 15.5mph it is treated as a motor vehicle rather than a bicycle.
Myth 3) “You can ride an electric moped in cycle lanes.”
Truth: You cannot ride a moped in cycle lanes or on pavements. Mopeds belong on the road, like motorcycles.
Myth 4) “A car licence automatically lets you ride any electric moped.”
Truth: For scooters with a top speed of 28mph, if you got your UK driving license before February 2001, you can use your existing license, otherwise you may have to complete a day long CBT course.
Myth 5) “Electric mopeds don’t need maintenance.”
Truth: They still need:
- Brake checks
- Suspension checks
- Wheel alignment
- Lights working
- Battery health monitoring
- Tyre checks
Registered and number plated steed vehicles would also need an MOT every year after the first 3 years. For more information, refer here. They just need less maintenance than petrol mopeds, but still need some.
Myth 6) "Electric mopeds are only for teenagers.”
Truth: Loads of UK riders of mopeds are:
- Commuters
- Delivery riders
- Retirees
- City workers
- People who don’t want a car
Electric mopeds appeal to a wide range of riders and not just young people. If you’re looking for a stable, quiet, fast and environmentally friendly way to get around, an electric moped could be the perfect choice for you.
Myth 7) “You can ride an electric moped with just a helmet.”
Truth: You need ALL of these:
- Licence (at least CBT)
- Insurance
- Registration/Number plate
- Helmet
-
Road tax
Myth 8) “Electric mopeds are too expensive to run.”
Truth (typical UK costs):
- Charging: often £0.50 – £1.50 per full charge
- Tax: £26 per year
- Insurance: often cheaper than petrol mopeds
- No petrol, no oil changes
- Maintenance: typically much cheaper and simpler than a petrol moped
They’re usually cheaper to run than petrol mopeds.
Did this write-up cleared up common misconceptions you have on Electric Mopeds? Let us know at hello@fatwheelscoot.com if you have common misconceptions that we weren't able to answer!