What is a 50cc Moped And Why Should You Get One?

Susan Difford - Clean Green Compare Personal Lines Insurance Expert
Written by  Susan DiffordUpdated  25 April 20252 min read

Table of Contents

A moped is a form of motorcycle that has a 50cc engine and a maximum design speed of 28mph. They’re ideal for shorter journeys, including short commutes and are also a perfect first bike for teenagers since they’re legal to ride from 16 years of age. Below we’ll be looking at some of the main benefits of 50cc mopeds. If you plan to get a moped, then you’ll need to get 50cc moped insurance as well as tax.

Key points

What Are The Main Benefits Of A 50cc Moped?

  • Affordability: Mopeds are very affordable to buy and run, especially when compared to scooters, cars and more powerful motorbikes.
  • Easy to ride: Mopeds are also very easy to ride, although you will need to pass CBT before you’re able to ride one on your own.
  • Eco-friendly: Because of their small engine size, mopeds also produce much less carbon emissions compared to most other vehicles.
  • Cheap to insure: 50cc mopeds are also usually very affordable to insure.
  • Ride them from 16 onwards: Mopeds are the only type of powered vehicle that 16 year olds can legally ride on public roads in the UK.

50cc moped

Isn't a more powerful moped better?

This depends. If you’re looking for something for long distance riding that you can use on motorways, then yes a more powerful moped-type bike i.e. a scooter would be a better option. However 50cc mopeds are great for shorter journeys and for younger riders who don’t have experience yet.

How much does 50cc moped insurance cost?

It’s generally very affordable but the price can vary depending on things like:

  • Your location
  • Where the moped is stored
  • The level of cover you take out

In Summary

  • A 50cc moped is a type of motorcycle that is affordable, easy to ride and is perfect for teenagers and people who want to gain experience in motorcycle riding.
  • Although mopeds are not hugely powerful vehicles, you will still need to get tax and insurance to make them road legal.
  • You can ride a moped from the age of 16, provided you’ve completed CBT and have a provisional driving licence.

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