MOPED VS. MOTORCYCLE REGISTRATION

by Mark Manzo

MOPED VS. MOTORCYCLE REGISTRATION:
WHY REGISTERING YOUR OLD SOREN AS A MOPED MAY BE AN EASIER RIDE

Picture this: You purchased an Old Soren moped motorbike, it’s arrived, and you’re ready to hit the road in style. But before you grab a helmet and twist the throttle, what about registration?

When it comes to two-wheeled transportation, both mopeds and motorcycles offer unique advantages. However, the process and benefits of registering these vehicles can differ significantly. Here's why registering your Old Soren café racer as a moped at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may be the smoother path:

  1. Simpler Registration Process
    Moped registration is often more straightforward than motorcycle registration. Many states have streamlined procedures for mopeds, requiring less paperwork and fewer steps. This can save you time and hassle at the DMV.
  2. Lower Registration Fees
    In most states, registration fees for mopeds are considerably lower than those for motorcycles. This reduced cost can be a significant advantage — especially for budget-conscious riders or those using their vehicle primarily for short trips.
  3. Less Stringent Licensing Requirements
    While requirements vary by state, many places allow you to operate a moped with just a standard driver's license. Motorcycles, on the other hand, typically require a special motorcycle license or endorsement, which involves additional testing and fees.
  4. Easier Insurance Process
    Insuring a moped is often simpler and less expensive than insuring a motorcycle. Some states don't even require insurance for mopeds, though it's always wise to have coverage.
  5. Fewer Inspection Requirements
    Many states have less rigorous inspection requirements for mopeds compared to motorcycles. Some may not require annual inspections at all, saving you time and money.
  6. Parking Privileges
    In some urban areas, registered mopeds enjoy special parking privileges. They may be allowed to park in designated areas or even on sidewalks where motorcycles are prohibited.
  7. Lower Taxes
    If your state imposes a personal property tax on vehicles, mopeds often fall into a lower tax bracket than motorcycles, resulting in lower annual tax bills.
  8. Simplified Record-Keeping
    With less complex registration and insurance requirements, maintaining records for your moped can be much simpler than for a motorcycle.
  9. Easier Renewals
    Annual or biennial registration renewals for mopeds are typically more straightforward and possible to complete online in many states.
  10. Potential for Electric Vehicle Incentives
    If you're registering an electric moped (which is exactly what Old Soren café racers are), you may be eligible for additional incentives or tax credits in some jurisdictions, which may not apply to all types of motorcycles.

Name of the game
Something to keep in mind is that the definition of a "moped" varies by state, usually based on engine size and maximum speed. Before deciding on how to register, check your local DMV's specific requirements and definitions for mopeds and motorcycles.

LEAVE DIFFICULT REGISTRATION IN YOUR REARVIEW
Registering a moped at the DMV often provides a more accessible, cost-effective, and straightforward path to two-wheeled transportation. However, the right choice depends on your specific needs, local laws, and intended use.

Start your journey at oldsorenmotorcycleco.com/products/founder-series-motorcycle.

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