• An Italian-style moped, parked conveniently on the sidewalk.Moped image by Richard McGuirk from Fotolia.com
  
  Mopeds are a popular mode of transportation for riders who live in urban areas, want cheap and fuel-efficient personal transportation, and do not have a motorcycle-endorsed driver's license. Mopeds are defined by their engine size, top speed and maximum horsepower. A moped motor cannot exceed 50cc, it cannot exceed 30 mph and must not boast more than 1 horsepower. They are legal for operation on city streets and can be driven short distances on sidewalks (to reach bicycle racks, for example) but cannot be taken on highways. A moped cannot legally carry more than one passenger.
  
  

Classic

• Mopeds were traditionally designed with a minimalist look and feel. These designs incorporated an uncovered metal frame, exposed motor and single seat. Examples of this type of moped include the Honda Hobbit, Honda Express and Tomos Arrow. Classically styled mopeds are often the smallest and least expensive of all moped designs and are available as used vehicles, collectible mopeds and as new vehicles from some modern moped manufacturers.
  
  

Italian

• The look of the iconic Vespa scooter has been reproduced in popular moped designs worldwide. This design features plastic, fiberglass or metal plating around the frame and motor, smooth curves and a shieldlike front end to protect the driver from debris and the elements. The list of notable Italian-style mopeds includes the Genuine Buddy 50 and the Kymco People 50.
  
  

Sport

• A sleeker, more aerodynamic look is sometimes desired. Sporty moped models make use of plastic or fiberglass plating to cover the frame and motor and decrease drag on the moped and rider. Bright colors and sharp angles help define mopeds designed after this look. The Kymco Agility 50 and Kymco Sting 50 are two prominent modern mopeds that fit this style. Manufacturers such as Honda and Yamaha have a long history of designing mopeds that also espouse a sportier look.
  
  

Street Bike

• A few moped models are designed to emulate the look, feel and handling of a small motorcycle. These vehicles will feature gas tanks, seats and frame designs that look much like the classic street bikes of the 1970s and 1980s. A number of Tomos mopeds, including the TT Classic and the Streetmate, are among the more prominent examples of these mopeds.