the Art of Moped Preservation

Tires and wheelsI had once heard of a moped enthusiast who had to push his moped up hill in both directions while needing to change both tires.  Once uphill for one tire, another time uphill for the second tire, both times in ninety percent humidity, neither time with tanning lotion on.  The tire is the only thing separating you from the road or a long push home. Check tires for dry rot, cracks, or slices that went unnoticed from last season and inflate to recommended air pressure. Check valve stem for cracks/leaks and make sure they have valve stem caps. Snug up any loose wheel spokes. While the moped is on the center stand look for bent rims while spinning the wheels.Battery Some mopeds are equipped with them. If you removed the battery for storage and kept it charged (hopefully), just clean the cables and terminals with a wire brush then grease and reconnect. You may have to fill the cells with distilled water if it's not a "sealed" battery. If you’re moped have fuses check the fuse connecting points and keep spares on hand.  Also, gel batteries are all the rage.  They are inexpensive and need no recharging.Spark PlugYou might as well start the new riding season with a fresh spark plug and keep a spare with you. Use a gap setting tool and set to the manufacturer's recommendations.  Important note to self, a new spark plug isn’t the one that has been sitting at the bottom of the toolbox for two years.View the list »
The real cycle you're working on is a cycle called yourself.” Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

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On a beautiful NH spring day there is only one thought on the minds of 60% of our population: Time to get the scooter, moped and/or motorcycle out for a ride.

However, if most are like me, Aunt Gladys, trusty sidekick on two wheels, is in need of some spring to her step.

The following are not mandatory when it comes to getting the trusty steed out and dusting it off. Certainly they are important side notes for any of us that have found ourselves in the breakdown lane. Scratching our heads and thinking to ourselves, ‘Hindsight is not 20/20 when you are passing the age of 40.'

View the list
  • Spark PlugYou might as well start the new riding season with a fresh spark plug and keep a spare with you. Use a gap setting tool and set to the manufacturer's recommendations.  Important note to self, a new spark plug isn’t the one that has been sitting at the bottom of the toolbox for two years.
  • Battery Some mopeds are equipped with them. If you removed the battery for storage and kept it charged (hopefully), just clean the cables and terminals with a wire brush then grease and reconnect. You may have to fill the cells with distilled water if it's not a "sealed" battery. If you’re moped have fuses check the fuse connecting points and keep spares on hand.  Also, gel batteries are all the rage.  They are inexpensive and need no recharging.
  • Tires and wheelsI had once heard of a moped enthusiast who had to push his moped up hill in both directions while needing to change both tires.  Once uphill for one tire, another time uphill for the second tire, both times in ninety percent humidity, neither time with tanning lotion on.  The tire is the only thing separating you from the road or a long push home. Check tires for dry rot, cracks, or slices that went unnoticed from last season and inflate to recommended air pressure. Check valve stem for cracks/leaks and make sure they have valve stem caps. Snug up any loose wheel spokes. While the moped is on the center stand look for bent rims while spinning the wheels.
  • On The RoadRe-familiarize yourself to how your moped handles. It may have been many months since your last ride and it has been months since car/truck drivers have had to deal with sharing the road with mopeds. Be ESPECIALLY aware of that and drive super defensively. Debris, gravel, and cinders build up at intersections over the winter and as always there are POTHOLES every spring.  Loud pipes save lives but smart cyclist wear helmets!
  • The First FlightMoped experts and hardcore enthusiasts are met with different sets of rules than motorcyclists.  Remember to always smile.  When others see you motoring around, they see a fun and carefree life; most drivers almost always smile and wave at anyone on a moped.  Moped riders are a breed unto themselves; they bring to mind a bygone era and a peaceful easy feeling.  Rule number one, always enjoy the ride!http://www.mopedarmy.com/wiki/Preparing_your_moped_for_the_spring 
View the list

, Manchester Prepper Examiner

We are all experienced if we truly embrace ourselves in living.

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