Mopeds, known for their exceptional fuel efficiency, can travel an impressive 75 to 130 miles per gallon (mpg).
This far surpasses the fuel economy of most cars and motorcycles, making them an economical choice for many. In this article, I’ll explain the factors influencing a moped’s gas mileage and explore valuable tips to enhance fuel efficiency.
How Efficient Are Mopeds in Consuming Gas?
Mopeds are extremely fuel efficient in consuming gas. Most mopeds get between 75 and 130 miles per gallon (mpg), which is much higher than the fuel economy of most cars and motorcycles.
In comparison, the average car in the United States gets about 25-30 mpg, and the average motorcycle gets about 40-50 mpg.
What Are the Factors That Affect a Moped’s Gas Mileage?
I mentioned earlier that mopeds can run for 75-130 per gallon which is a considerable range. From my experience, here are the factors that could land your moped’s mileage anywhere in that spectrum:
1. Your Moped’s Manufacturer
The gas mileage of a moped can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer. Some manufacturers may produce more fuel-efficient models than others.
Modern scooters, including 50cc, 125cc, 150cc, and even 250cc scooters, may offer different levels of fuel efficiency based on their design and technology.
2. Your Moped’s Engine
Engine capacity, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), plays a crucial role in gas mileage. Smaller engines like 50cc mopeds tend to be more fuel-efficient than larger engines, such as 250cc or 500cc scooters.
Some Mopeds don’t rely on gas at all. If you’re using mopeds with electric motors, you’ll have to worry about battery consumption rather than gas.
3. Your Driving Style
How you ride your moped affects gas mileage. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds can consume more fuel while maintaining a steady and moderate speed can improve fuel efficiency.
Adhering to speed limits and avoiding rapid starts and stops can help conserve fuel.
4. The Driving Conditions of the Road
Traffic conditions, road elevation, and terrain can impact gas mileage. Stop-and-go traffic, frequent idling at traffic lights, and hilly roads may lead to lower fuel efficiency.
Smooth, level roads with consistent traffic flow tend to be more fuel-efficient.
5. The Maintenance of Your Moped
Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal gas mileage. Keeping your moped well-tuned, maintaining clean air filters, and ensuring proper tire pressure can contribute to better fuel efficiency.
A well-maintained moped is likely to consume less fuel.
6. The Weight Applied on Your Moped
The weight of the rider and any additional cargo can affect gas mileage. Heavier riders and carrying extra loads may lead to increased fuel consumption.
Keeping the weight on your moped within recommended limits can help maintain better gas mileage.
How to Improve Your Moped’s Gas Mileage?
You won’t be able to control every single factor I mentioned earlier. For example, you may already be stuck with a 150cc scooter or moped. You may also love to eat and don’t mind the extra few pounds, who am I to judge?
The point is, that you may take a few steps to improve gas mileage, but you won’t cover the entire formula. That’s why, in this section, I’ll show you all the available tips to improve your mileage, and you can pick whichever possible to do from them and apply them.
1. Choose the Right Moped
Opt for a moped with a smaller engine capacity (e.g., 50cc) if your daily commuting needs allow it. Smaller engines tend to be more fuel-efficient.
If you already own a moped with a stronger engine, keeping your feet gentle on the gas pedal can go a long way in reducing your fuel consumption.
2. Properly Inflate Tires
Ensure that your moped’s tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure levels. Under-inflated tires can increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency.
3. Regular Maintenance
Follow your moped’s maintenance schedule diligently.
Regularly service your moped, including oil changes, air filter replacement, and spark plug maintenance. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently.
4. Smooth Riding Style
Avoid rapid acceleration and abrupt braking. Smooth and gradual acceleration and deceleration can significantly improve fuel efficiency. Try to maintain a consistent and moderate speed.
Sometimes you’re better off selecting a longer commute that doesn’t get you stuck in traffic. Constantly bringing your moped (or any other vehicle really) from stop to motion and vice versa will eat through your fuel.
5. Observe Speed Limits
Adhere to posted speed limits. Higher speeds can lead to increased wind resistance and decreased fuel efficiency.
In other words, adhering to the speed limit isn’t just for your safety, it’s also for your money.
6. Remove Excess Weight
Keep your moped free of unnecessary cargo or heavy items. Extra weight can reduce fuel efficiency. Only take what’s necessary, like your cables and a small toolkit to help you out in a pickle.
I’m personally guilty of being too lazy to take out some random items from my moped, which collectively add a considerable weight and consume a fair amount of fuel.
7. Use High-Quality Fuel
If your moped allows for it, use high-quality gasoline with the recommended octane rating for optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.
There’s a lot of controversy about higher-quality fuels being more economical. I’m leaning more toward the fact that they don’t. So, why did I recommend using it? It’s because the fuel efficiency comes from a well-maintained engine.
Higher-quality fuels have less impurities and are less likely to cause mechanical issues.
In other words, while higher-quality fuels won’t directly improve fuel efficiency, they’ll still save you a few bucks in the long run (despite being more expensive) because they keep the engine itself working efficiently.
What Moped Should I Buy?
In this section, I’ll assume that you’re still going through your buying process and just getting an idea about how mopeds are fuel-efficient.
I’ve tried tens of mopeds throughout my life and the ones I’m about to show you are the most fuel-efficient based on my experience.
| Model | Engine Size | Fuel Efficiency (mpg) |
|---|---|---|
| Yamaha Vino 50 | 49cc | 120 |
| Honda Ruckus | 49cc | 110 |
| Honda Beat | 49cc | 115 |
| Kymco Like 50 | 49cc | 110 |
| Vespa LX 50 | 49cc | 100 |
| Genuine Buddy 50 | 49cc | 110 |
| Sym Mio | 49cc | 115 |
| Piaggio Ciao | 49cc | 100 |
| Peugeot Kisbee | 49cc | 110 |
| Suzuki Lets | 49cc | 115 |
| Aprilia Scarabeo 50 | 49cc | 110 |
| Kymco Agility 50 | 49cc | 115 |
As you can see, all of these mopeds get excellent fuel efficiency, with most models getting over 100 mpg. They are also all relatively inexpensive to purchase and maintain.
Here are some additional details about each moped:
- Yamaha Vino 50: The Vino 50 is a classic scooter with a retro design. It is easy to ride and has a comfortable seat.
- Honda Ruckus: The Ruckus is a popular choice for commuters and city riders. It is lightweight and agile, making it easy to maneuver through traffic.
- Honda Beat: The Beat is a fuel-efficient scooter that is also stylish and fun to ride. It is a good choice for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Kymco Like 50: The Like 50 is a retro scooter with a modern twist. It has a comfortable seat and a spacious storage compartment.
- Vespa LX 50: The Vespa LX 50 is a classic Italian scooter that is known for its style and performance. It is a good choice for riders who want a stylish and reliable scooter.
- Genuine Buddy 50: The Buddy 50 is a retro scooter with a modern twist. It has a comfortable seat and a spacious storage compartment.
- Sym Mio: The Mio is a fuel-efficient scooter that is also stylish and fun to ride. It is a good choice for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Piaggio Ciao: The Ciao is a simple and affordable scooter that is perfect for city riding. It is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Peugeot Kisbee: The Kisbee is a modern scooter with a comfortable seat and a spacious storage compartment. It is a good choice for commuters and city riders.
- Suzuki Lets: The Lets is a fuel-efficient scooter that is also stylish and fun to ride. It is a good choice for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Aprilia Scarabeo 50: The Scarabeo 50 is a sporty scooter with a comfortable seat and a spacious storage compartment. It is a good choice for riders who want a stylish and powerful scooter.
- Kymco Agility 50: The Agility 50 is a fuel-efficient scooter that is also stylish and fun to ride. It is a good choice for both beginners and experienced riders.
FAQs
Regarding Fuel Efficiency, should I Get an Automatic Transmission Moped or a Manual One?
Manual transmission vehicles are often more fuel-efficient than automatic ones. However, that answer assumes that you’re not late shifting between your gears. If you have a habit of overshifting or simply can’t stop flooring that gas pedal, you may be better off with an automatic one.
Will a Moped Help Me Save Some Gas Money?
If you’re suffering from gas prices and your commute is relatively short, a moped is, without a doubt, one of the best investments you can make to save gas money. By all means, go for it.
The Verdict
With their remarkable gas mileage and eco-friendly features, mopeds are a smart choice for those looking to save on fuel costs.
By understanding the factors affecting gas mileage and implementing practical tips, you can enjoy the economic benefits of riding a moped while reducing your environmental footprint.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer, making informed choices about your moped and riding habits can lead to significant savings at the pump.
