>>1892298Biggest reason in the states is that bikes (even e-bikes) and mopeds (typically a 50cc or under 2 stroke) are two different classes of vehicles under statute.
E-bike:
Can go on trails and paths that restrict motor vehicle use.
Does not require any license, reg, or insurance
Does not require any specific inspection/ for lighting or signals
Is light enough to be easily stored inside and can use existing bike infrastructure if available (racks, bus/train racks)
Moped:
Is a motorized vehicle and cannot use pedestrian/bike paths
Typically requires at least a class C driver's license or an M class if greater than 50cc
Typically requires registration, insurance and inspection.
Must have specific lights and signals
Due to size and engine fluids may not be able to store inside as easily without a garage
Cannot generally use existing bike infrastructure (although weight and design makes theft less likely) and cannot make use of multi-modal transport.
For in city stuff, the electric bike is often a better choice if only because it works better with mass transit and apartments. However in more suburban or somewhat rural areas the moped is a great option. My neighborhood is all 25-30mph streets that I dislike riding a bike on but the moped can keep up with the cars, gets me there just as fast, and importantly gets more than twice the gas mileage. I use both bike and moped options and it's nice to have the gap fill but if I had to choose one it would be the bike simply because the bike is a bike and moped is effectively a very cheap car.
