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.
Various cylinder capacities for two- or three-wheel vehicles
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
be at least 14 years old (parental authorization is required for minors)
have successfully completed the Road Safety Education Program – Operating a Moped or Motorized 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 motorized 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.
Motor
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- and dual-seat mopeds or scooters
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.
Place of manufacture
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.
