How much is a moped? If you are a first-time moped buyer, I would recommend that you should not purchase based on the price alone. The price range for a two-stroke pedal moped can vary, I’ve heard of some people paying $25 for a moped or getting them in trade. Most of these low-cost mopeds do not run and need repairs. Alternatively, a running moped can cost upward of 2000 U.S. dollars depending on its rarity and condition.

This article will break down some information about how much is a moped in the U.S. Scooters are often referred to as mopeds, this is common. Here is an article that explains the differences between a moped and scooter: Moped vs Scooter Some of this information could apply to scooters but mostly vintage mopeds.

RARITY, CONDITION, APPEARANCE – HOW MUCH DOES A MOPED COST

Mopeds are collector’s items as well as transportation. They are treated similar to vintage cars, some makes and models are worth more than others. Mopeds were popular all over the world, though its popularity fell in the U.S. market.

What is a rare moped? If you are fortunate to find a rare model moped that could add to the mopeds value. Special edition or low production of certain trims add to a mopeds rarity. Another factor that makes a moped rare, is some models were not available in the U.S. If buying an imported moped that could add to the price because it is rarer.

The next factor to consider is the vintage mopeds condition. If it has been well kept indoors and clean or restored, not a barn find that is dusty, you can expect to pay more. On the other hand, if you find a vintage moped that is in need of restoration or repairs and you are willing to put in the work that moped should be cheaper.

Another variable that determines how much is a moped is its appearance. You will most likely find a moped in need of restoration or it has been restored or its a custom build. Custom build even if it is only a paint job could change the value of a moped. Custom could also mean it had some engine performance parts installed.

THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR – HOW MUCH IS A MOPED

If buying a custom moped, check for small details and craftsmanship. The same should be considered for restored mopeds. Did they take any shortcuts? If spoke wheels, check that none of the spokes are missing, broken, or loose. If mag wheels, check that there aren’t any cracks or chips. Grab the wheel and shake it side to side, there shouldn’t be any wiggle. If so this might mean the bearings in the wheels are bad.

Sit on the moped and make sure there isn’t any play or wiggle in the handlebars or forks. You want to make sure the bearings are good in the forks and not missing, damaged, or loose. Even at low speeds, this could make the handling very wobbly or shakey.

TEST RIDE

Try to turn on the moped yourself. Some mopeds are difficult to start. You want to be able to start the moped alone. Take it for a short ride, pay attention to the handling. Is it easy to keep on the road or do you have to compensate for wobbling? Next focus on braking, does it stop with ease? If it starts and idles then the engine shouldn’t have any major issues to repair. Does it handle with ease? Then the bearings in the wheels and forks should be good. If the bike stops well then the brakes won’t need a replacement for some miles.

Lastly, you want to check for electrical issues. When you squeeze the brake levers does the brake light turn on. Do the headlight and taillight work well? Check the engine cut off switch works. Check any other switches are functioning as they should be.

Some of these things are not deal breakers but things to consider if paying for a premium moped. If you don’t mind small flaws then just factor that into the price. You shouldn’t pay a premium if factory parts are missing or not working. As most are since mopeds are mostly vintage.

FINAL THOUGHTS – HOW MUCH DOES A MOPED COST

For a common vintage moped like a Puch Maxi, Vespa Ciao, or Tomos Targa/Sprint, look to pay $400 to $1000. Depending on the above factors with condition and appearance. You shouldn’t pay a premium price for even a fully restored Maxi or Tomos. These are common mopeds and with enough patients, they are available more often than most other brands and models.

The moped cost for a new moped like a 2018 Tomos will be closer to $1000 but you get a new moped with warranty. A used moped from a moped shop will cost you around $1000 as well because most reputable shops warranty there works for some time.

MOPED RECOMMENDATION

If you are looking to buy your first vintage moped, I recommend mopeds with the following engines:

• Puch e50 single speed
• Tomos a35 or a55 automatic two speed
• Minarelli V1 single speed
• Morini M01 single speed
• Honda PA50ii
• Derbi

These engines are simple enough to work on with a lot of information about them. Tomos is the easiest to start. The Puch, Minarelli, and Morini are similar to start. A stock Honda is easy to start as welk but different from the rest of the list.

Until you get comfortable with mopeds I would not recommend these engines/brands for beginners for different reasons:

• Motobecane – Difficult to work on. It could be difficult to start.
• Peugeot – Difficult to work on. It could be difficult to start.
• Vespa – It could be difficult to start.
• Sachs – Could have some clutch issues.
• Batavus – Low speed, not as easy to make faster as some other mopeds. Difficult to work on. It could be difficult to start.