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Chapter 6: Factors that Influence Speeds Attainable by Mopeds

When you are on the market for a new moped, you will notice that each model comes with a specification as to its top speed. For mopeds with engines 50cc or smaller in size, the top speed is generally around 35 miles per hour. For mopeds or motor scooters with larger engines, top speeds can be achieved in the range of 85 miles per hour; of course, it is still illegal to operate mopeds or motor scooters on interstate highways or freeways.

However, it is important to realize that the specified top speed is not a hard rule for how fast the moped will actually be able to move under all circumstances. Several factors other than engine size also influence the top speed attainable by the vehicle.

One of the most important variables is the size and weight of the rider. While a rider�s weight is unlikely to influence speeds achievable by a car, it can have a huge influence on the much smaller, much less powerful moped. In general, mopeds will achieve higher speeds with smaller, lighter and more compact riders. This will be influenced not only directly by the weight of the rider, but also by how aerodynamically positioned a rider is on the moped. Very tall or wide people will offer greater wind resistance on a moped than small people whose bodies are retained more within the space occupied by the moped�s handlebars and body. Thus, smaller riders will always be able to go faster on level ground or on an upward incline relative to larger riders.

In contrast, on a downward incline, the heavier rider will attain greater speeds. Acceleration due to gravity is increased in direct proportion to weight of the object. Therefore, the speeds attained on a downhill slope will depend on both the weight of the rider and the length of the downward incline.

Weight is also a consideration when it comes to braking power. A smaller rider presents less inertia in any direction and will thus find it easier to slow the vehicle than a larger rider. This is an important safety consideration and riders should consider their own size in selecting a model with a specific braking power.

Another important factor that influences moped speeds considerably is levelness of the ground. On an upward incline, the relatively weak engine of a moped can have difficulty obtaining top speeds. Indeed, those who live in especially hilly areas should be careful to investigate the maximum incline a given model can handle, as some models of moped simply will not make it up a steep hill at all, especially with a particularly heavy rider aboard.

Last, factors such as wind speed and direction and road condition will affect a moped�s top speed more so than with a car. The fact that the moped�s weight is distributed over two wheels rather than four reduces its traction relative to a car, and its lighter weight enables wind to have a much more powerful influence. In extremely windy conditions, riders may find it difficult to comfortably maneuver a moped, even at slower speeds.

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