Only in Hawaii is it cool to ride a moped. I was taken aback when I saw that a large amount of locals own them. It makes sense though. Year round the weather is in the mid 80′s, when it rains it’s not for that long, the island takes 5 hours to completely circle, they can be parked anywhere, insurance is not required, the speed limits on most streets are only 35 mph, and they get 80 miles to the gallon. It only looks like mopeds are going to become more popular!

Prerequisites to Driving the Moped:
-Driver must be at least 15 years old with a permit. With an out of state license the driver must be 18 with a valid drivers license.

Driving the Mopeds on the Roads:
- You must face forward while you are driving. No standing on the floor board it’s a $97 ticket.
- Only one person on a moped at a time. Another $97 ticket for the driver and passenger.
- If traffic is too fast get as far to the right as safely possible or drive in the bike lane. Remember safety first.
- Mopeds must be driven in a single file line.
- No moped is allowed on a sidewalk or any other area permitted solely for pedestrians.

Additional Recommendations:
- Always wear a helmet. It only takes one car not looking over there shoulder as they change lanes.
- Always wear closed-toed shoes and preferrably pants. Nothing else protecting you from some road rash.
- If it is raining take the bus. The moped will come out from under you if you have to brake fast. If you have to go out in the rain ride very cautiously and keep distance with other vehicles.

When renting a moped there are certain guidelines that must be followed. Sure it may seem an easy task but renting an unmaintained scooter and having it break down will definitely ruin one of your precious days on your vacation. So here are a list of prerequisites that a moped must pass to be “rentable”.

1. Does it have all of it’s parts?
It is surprising how many moped rentals there are on the road without mirrors.

2. Are the tires in good condition?
The pressure should be no less that 25 psi and there should ALWAYS be tread on them.

3. Are the panels in good condition?
If not imagine what the engine must be like.

4. Do the turn signals work?
Good luck hand signaling while trying to find your way around.

5. Does the bike ride straight?
Most companies will not allow anyone to test drive their bikes, but before signing your life away at least spin the front tire and make sure the rim’s not wobbly.

6. Does it have enough oil?
It’s all about lubrication.

7. Is it clean underneath the seat?
The storage beneath the seat is very important and needs to be neat. Imagine renting a car with trash in the trunk. How tacky!

8. Last but not least what year is the moped?
If it is older than a year don’t waste your time. Unlike a car, 20,000 miles on a moped means it’s on its last breaths.

A moped is not a toy. It has to be maintained regularly and like anything else requires some TLC to properly perform. So always inspect what you are getting before you sign. Have fun!