With the July 4th weekend at an end and some of the best weather imaginable settling in, it only makes sense to bust out the most fun you can have on two wheels. What I’m referring to, of course, is a moped. These 49cc bad boys get you where you need to go at a relatively above average pace all while allowing you to look like the true badass you are. With some reaching 40 MPH on a flat road, I wouldn’t dare underestimate a rider with a need for speed.
I myself recently picked up Yamaha Zuma and, boy, I haven’t been the same since. The sheer amount of freedom you experience on such a machine is tough to find anywhere else. Convince a friend to hop on and hold on tight and you’re off on your next big adventure. What’s even better is when you have the opportunity to cruise with other fellow moped riders. Between constantly blasting your horns and intimidating local neighborhood moms the combined shenaniganry makes you seem unstoppable. The frequency of moped gangs seems to be increasing sharply or at least in my home town. I’ve been riding with a group of four over the past month, but suddenly I’ve seen two other groups of four or larger. At this rate, mopeds will be outnumbering motorcycles in no time.
Being a Badger, having a moped in Madison can be one of the greatest things to happen to you. Whether you’re a veterinarian major who lives on Langdon or an agriculture major stuck in southeast, a moped is a dream come true. Granted, even if you live three blocks away from where you need to be it makes life just a bit easier. Some don’t recommend it, but even in winter the faster you get to your destination the faster you can get out of the blistering cold. Sure it’s not a car, but it’s the next best thing with ample parking, a smaller profile, and being easier to take care of. Speaking of care, as long as you don’t purchase a garbage brand or a sketchy used moped, you won’t ever have to do much. Sure, some have to winterized, but most basic 2-cylinders just need fuel and oil to run year round.
One of the most important factors that I have yet to mention is as long as your moped is under 50cc you don’t need a motorcycle license to operate it. Although, you do need a regular driver’s license. This helps tremendously considering the motorcycle course and license in Wisconsin can run you upwards of $300. This is in comparison to an overall purchase price of $600-$3000 depending if you buy new or used. If you take good care of your moped, the resale value isn’t too shabby either. With all the money you save be sure cop some aviators, a comfy helmet, and an American flag tank top and you’ll be set to ride for life.
