Technical Guide
The characteristics of each type of moped or scooter are described below, along with their advantages and disadvantages. These are all elements you must take into consideration in order to choose the moped or scooter that best suits your needs.
50 cc moped or scooter
These two- or three-wheel vehicles are:
- equipped with an electric motor or a motor with a maximum 50 cc cylinder capacity
- equipped with an automatic transmission
- the smallest scooter model
- affordable (between $1,800 and $4,400)
- limited to speeds of about 70 km/h
- ideal for city driving
Drivers must:
- be at least 14 years old (parental authorization is required for minors)
- have successfully completed the Road Safety Education Program – Operating a Moped or Scooter
- hold a Class 6D driver's licence
OR
- hold a probationary licence, a passenger vehicle driver's licence (Class 5) or a motorcycle driver's licence (Class 6A, 6B or 6C)
Motorcycle
These two- or three-wheel vehicles:
- outperform mopeds and scooters
- are not limited to speeds of about 70 km/h
- are better suited to regional roads and highways
Drivers must:
- be at least 16 years old
- have successfully completed the motorcycle driving course
- hold a Class 6 driver's licence (6A, 6B or 6C, according to cylinder capacity)
Power-assisted bicycle
Commonly known as an electric bicycle (or electric scooter), this vehicle is equipped with an electric motor.
Drivers must:
- be at least 14 years old
- wear a bicycle helmet
Drivers who are under 18 years old must hold either a moped or scooter driver's licence, a probationary driver's licence (passenger vehicle) or a motorcycle driver's licence.
However, drivers 18 and over may drive power-assisted bicycles without holding any licence.
Two-stroke
Advantages
- More powerful than other motors of equal cylinder capacity
- Better acceleration
Disadvantages
- Noisier
- Consumes more gas than a four-stroke motor
- Consumes more oil
- Pollutes more
Four-stroke
Advantages
- Consumes less fuel than other motors of equal cylinder capacity
- Does not consume any oil
- Better environmental choice
- Greater durability (motor)
Disadvantages
- Less powerful than a two-stroke motor
Single-seat
Moped or scooter designed to carry a single person.
Dual-seat
Moped or scooter designed to carry no more than two people:
- heavier than single-seat models
- greater riding stability
- sturdier, bigger wheels
Important
In order to avoid premature wear or breakage, do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit.
The place of manufacture may be an indication of the quality of the vehicle, and is reflected in its price. Top-of-the-line vehicles are often made in Japan or Europe, whereas more affordable models are made in China, Korea or Taiwan.
Top-of-the-line
- Steel frame and body
- Higher load capacity
- Better suspension
- Greater durability
- Better quality components (controls, instrument panel, rear-view mirrors, chrome, paint)
- Higher price
Entry-level
- Plastic body
- Lower load capacity
- Less durable
- Lesser quality components
- More affordable
Last update: December 16, 2024