10.3 Motorcycles, Mopeds, Motorized Scooters & Low-Speed Vehicles

Massachusetts roads carry far more than cars and trucks. This section covers the smaller motor vehicles the manual says drivers must recognize and respect, and the rules their operators follow.

Motorcycles: Check Twice, Save a Life

Motorcycles are motor vehicles just like cars, and they go as fast as cars and trucks. The riding season usually runs March through October, but some riders go all year. Drivers tend to overlook motorcycles and focus on larger vehicles. About half of fatal motorcycle crashes involve a motorcycle struck by another vehicle.

Rules for Motorcyclists

• It is illegal for a motorcyclist to weave between lanes at any time, or to ride along the lines between lanes.
• Ride no more than two abreast, and pass only in single file.
• Stay off highways unless the motorcycle can safely hold the posted minimum speed.
• Class M permit holders: no passengers, daylight only, DOT helmet, and eye protection unless the bike has a windshield (Section 2.1).
• The separate Motorcycle Manual must be studied for a Class M license, and completing the Massachusetts Rider Education Program (MREP) waives the RMV road test.

Mopeds (Motorized Bicycles)

A moped is a pedal bicycle with a helper motor, or a non-pedal bicycle with a motor, that has:

• A maximum speed of 30 mph or less
• An engine of 50 cubic centimeters or less
• An automatic transmission

You need a valid driver's license of any class or a learner's permit to drive one. Moped rules:

• Do not drive faster than 25 mph.
• Stay off limited-access or express state highways posted against bicycles.
• Use the correct electric and hand signals before stopping or turning.
• Do not ride on off-street recreational paths, although bike lanes along roads are allowed.
• Drivers and passengers must wear DOT-standard helmets.
• Permit holders may not carry passengers.
• Violations can bring fines of up to $100.

Motorized Scooters

A motorized scooter is any two- or three-wheeled vehicle with handlebars and an electric or gas motor, ridden seated or standing. The RMV will not register motorized scooters. You need a valid license of any class or a learner's permit.

• Do not drive faster than 20 mph.
• Stay off limited-access or express highways.
• Wear a DOT-standard helmet.
• Stay to the right side of the road, even when passing.
• Signal before stopping or turning.
• Do not ride after sunset or before sunrise.
• No passengers.

Fines are up to $25 for a first offense, $25 to $50 for a second and $50 to $100 after that.

Limited Use Vehicles

A limited use vehicle has two or more wheels and can go faster than 30 mph but not more than 40 mph. Depending on its wheels it is either a motorcycle, needing a Class M license or permit, or a passenger vehicle, needing Class D. It may not be driven on limited-access or express highways, or on any road with a limit over 40 mph.

Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs)

A low-speed vehicle has four wheels, travels 20 to 25 mph and weighs under 3,000 lb (gross weight rating). You need a valid Class D license or learner's permit. An LSV may not be driven on limited-access or express highways or any road with a limit over 30 mph, and may be barred from heavy-traffic areas.

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