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It's interesting, because this exact transition (bike+motor assist -> motorbike) has been seen before. In Britain we had the category of 'moped', complete with
by pmyteh 4y ago
It's interesting, because this exact transition (bike+motor assist -> motorbike) has been seen before. In Britain we had the category of 'moped', complete with vestigial pedals, before they were subsumed into the small motorbikes (limit: 50cc engine).
The difference is that now the motor is electric, not a small petrol engine. Will be interesting to see if we end up treating them (again) as small motorbikes, or as bikes with assist (so no compulsory helmet, insurance, or registration).
Edit: around here (Liverpool) I see them styled both ways. Some look like motor scooters with pedals, others pedal bikes with a motor. Seems to be fashion rather than functionality that determines which.
- analog31 4y agoAt least here in the states, the "moped" was not meant to be pedaled while in motion. It was for starting the motor. The gear ratio was too low to be useful while riding. The Honda Spree, with electric starter and centrifugal clutch, put an end to mopeds.