age restrictions for mopeds in michigan
A motorized bicycle or moped is: A two or three-wheeled device, capable of no more than 30 mph on level ground, and equipped with: - Fully operative pedals for human propulsion. - A motor producing less than two gross brake horsepower and an automatic transmission. If you operate a motorized bicycle which meets the definition of CVC §406(b), you: - Must be 16 years of age or older. - Must wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet. - Are exempt from the motor vehicle financial responsibility, driver license, and moped plate requirements (CVC §12804.9). Driver must have a motorcycle license (M1 or M2). A motorized bicycle is also defined as a vehicle with pedals and an electric motor (not more than 1,000 watts) which cannot be driven at speeds of more than 20 mph on level ground even if assisted by human power. (CVC §406(b)). Optional for those 21 yrs of age or older AND has had either a motorcycle endorsement for 2 years or has taken an accredited motorcycle safety class AND has purchased atleast $20,000 of coverage for medical benefits on their insurance policy. Many scooters actually are “motorcycles” under Michigan law. What makes any 2 or 3 wheel vehicle that is driven on the highway a “motorcycle” is the engine size. If a vehicle has 2 or 3 wheels and its engine size is 51cc or more, then it shall be considered a motorcycle under Michigan law. The Michigan No-Fault Law defines a motorcycle as: MCL 500.3101 (2)(c) Motorcycle means a vehicle having a saddle or seat for the use of the rider, designed to travel on not more than 3 wheels in contact with the ground, which is equipped with a motor that exceeds 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement. The wheels on any attachment to the vehicle shall not be considered as wheels in contact with the ground. Motorcycle does not include a moped, as defined in section 32b of the Michigan vehicle code, 1949 PA 300, MCL 257.32b. Motorcycle does not include an ORV. MCL 257.32b “Moped” defined. “Moped” means a 2- or 3-wheeled vehicle which is equipped with a motor that does not exceed 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement, produces 2.0 brake horsepower or less, and cannot propel the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on a level surface. The wheels on any attachment to the vehicle shall not be considered as wheels in contact with the ground. Motorcycle does not include a moped, as defined in section 32b of the Michigan vehicle code, 1949 PA 300, MCL 257.32b. Motorcycle does not include an ORV. Therefore, a person who loses his or her license for say drunk driving cannot use a moped to get to and from work. The special moped license is usually utilized by 15-year-olds who are under the age limit to obtain a ‘regular’ operator’s license. So, even though your vehicle looks like “a scooter” or drives like “a moped,” the key component is whether it exceeds 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement. If so, the State of Michigan considers it “a motorcycle.” There may be significant ramifications for not following the letter of the law.
15-year.