Moped Defined

When is a moped a moped, and not a motor scooter or a motorcycle? If it:

• Has two or three wheels;

• Can be propelled by a human (with pedals) or a motor, or both;

• Has a motor with no more than 3.5 horsepower and 130 cubic centimeter (ccs) cylinder capacity;

• Can't go more than 30 miles an hour.

In other words, if your vehicle can't get up to highway speed, it's probably a moped.

Operating a Moped

As long as you have a current Kansas driver's license or a motorcycle license, you may legally operate a motor scooter on Kansas highways. You are also required to wear a helmet (if you are under 18) and all riders must wear eye protection. If you want to legally carry a passenger, the moped must be equipped with a permanently-attached seat designed for passengers. All passengers must ride astride―no handstands, please.

Moped Registration and Insurance

All mopeds driven on Kansas highways are required to have current motor vehicle insurance and be legally registered with the Kansas DMV.

Motor Scooter Defined

The definition of motor-driven cycle, which includes motor scooters, refers to any two-wheel vehicle "with a motor which produces not to exceed 5 brake horsepower" according to the Kansas Motorcycle Manual. Basically, it's considered a small motorcycle.

Motor Scooter Licensing

Because a motor scooter is defined as having a higher horsepower than a moped, to ride one, you have to get a motorcycle operator's driver's license.

Rules for Driving

Motor scooter rules are the same as motor cycle rules. Every driver and passenger must wear a safety helmet (if they are under 18), all riders must wear eye protection, and in order to legally carry a passenger, there must be a permanently affixed seat on the motor scooter. To learn more about motor scooter operating rules, refer to the Kansas State Motorcycle Operator's Manual.

Registering Mopeds and Scooters

The registration process for mopeds and motor scooters is the same as for all other motorcycle registrations completed in Kansas. If you purchase your motor scooter or moped through a dealership, the dealer will take care of the registration and titling paperwork for you and will provide you with temporary tags for the vehicle.

If you purchase your motor scooter or motorcycle through a private party, the registration process is also the same as for other previously-owned motorcycle registrations.

More Facts and Fun

For more fun and facts on the subject of mopeds, motor scooters, and motorcycles, check out:

Transporting Your Motorcycle

Electric Vehicles That Classify as a Motorcycle

How to Fall/Lay Down the Bike

Scooters 101

Touring

Must-Have Accessories

Theft Prevention

Getting Married at Sturgis

Finding a Trustworthy Mechanic

Vintage Motorcycles and Scooters

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