Moped and Scooter owners know that they are a superb mode of transport for getting around in the city and urban areas. They are mainly very low powered so are an extremely cheap mode of transport. In Europe and particularly in the UK the moped and scooter is mainly owned by 16 to 20 year olds and are usually a stepping stone to a larger motorcycle.

There are also a lot of European countries such as Spain, France and Greece where you can hire a moped or scooter and need very little in the way of paperwork other than a driving license to hire it, however you tend to see the accident and emergency rooms at the local hospitals bugling with un-savvy motorcyclists who have misjudged the local roads and traffic.

Most moped's are limited to 35 mph yet it is common for teenagers to tune them so they can achieve high speeds and decibels. In the cities the noise can be deafening, especially in the tourist resorts where they pour out of the clubs at 5 in the morning and echo through the narrow streets.

If you are looking at moped and scooter brochures take your time and make a wish list of the specification and extras you would really like to have and then scour the internet and local dealers crossing off what you cant afford. You need to also bear in mind the legal moped and scooter age requirements of in the country you are living. The other option is to look at the classifieds as there are often bargains to be had as riders upgrade to larger bikes.

For any moped and scooter rider the one thing that should be considered first is insurance as there is a high chance that you will need it at some time make sure it is covered fully comprehensive for theft, damage and also for if you are involved in an accident. There are a few companies online who specialise in moped and scooter insurance.

Owning a moped or a scooter has a lot of advantages it gives you freedom from being stuck in long traffic jams, they are far more environmental friendly and they are extremely cheap to run in fact there are electric scooters now which cost as little as 0.3p per mile to run.

Safety is the biggest consideration for riders, make sure you purchase a decent helmet and don't ride in shorts and sandals in the summer as they offer no protection should you have a spill. Check your with your local police station as they will be ale to recommend a training school where you can be taught the correct way to ride and look after your moped and scooter