At Paddock Motorbike
Your motorbike and scooter rental company in TenerifeWe know that many people wonder which is the best option for touring the island: moped or motorbike, motorbike or scooter. This decision not only affects your comfort, but also the safety and ease of driving on different routes. Here we explain, in a clear way and with real comparisons, the main differences between motorbike and moped, and when each vehicle is more suitable.
Differences between Scooters and Motorcycles
Scooter (or motor scooter):
- Design: Flat foot platform, low seat and closed bodywork.
- Engine: From 50 cc to 500 cc, automatic transmission (easy to use).
- Use: Perfect for city and short journeys (ideal if you don't have much experience).
- Advantages: Easier to drive, lighter, low fuel consumption and cheap to maintain.
Choose your ideal scooter or maxiscooter: Honda PCX 125, Yamaha XMAX 300 y Honda ADV 350
Motorbike (or motorbike):
- Design: Visible engine, more robust structure and steeper driving position.
- Engine: From 125 cc to over 1,000 cc, manual transmission.
- Use: Best for long journeys, open roads and mountain routes.
- Advantages: More power, speed and stability. Ideal if you are looking for adrenaline or long routes.
Choose your ideal bike: Honda CB125R, Honda NX 500, Honda NC750, Honda XL750 Transalp y Honda Africa Twin 1100.
Of the two options, which is safer?
On Tenerife's roads, both scooters and motorbikes can be safe if you make the right choice based on your experience.
- Scooter / moped: Their lower power makes them safer for beginners in urban areas. Their low weight makes them easier to manoeuvre and brake.
- Motorbike: Safer on long routes and open roads (such as climbing the Teide), thanks to its stability. But it requires more experience, especially the larger ones.
What is best if I am starting out?
If it is your first time driving in Tenerife, the most recommended option is a 125 cc scooter or moped.
- Advantages: Automatic, low weight and easy handling (perfect for getting around Santa Cruz, La Laguna or coastal areas).
- Scooter/moped or motorbike: If you have never ridden a motorbike before, start with a scooter. If you have an A1 or A2 licence and some experience, a 125 cc scooter is a good intermediate step.
Which is more comfortable, Scooter or Motorcycle?
- Scooter: Ideal if you are looking for comfort in the city. The seat is lower, the position is relaxed and you can rest your feet comfortably.
- Motorbike: More comfortable for long routes and mountain, thanks to its stability. Perfect if you want to tour the north of the island, Masca or Anaga.
Scooter vs motorbike comparison chart
| Feature | Scooter / Moped | Motorbike |
|---|---|---|
| Cylinder capacity | 50 cc - 500 cc | 125 cc - >1,000 cc |
| Transmission | Automatic | Manual |
| Fuel consumption | 2-4 L/100 km | 4-8 L/100 km |
| Difficulty | Low, ideal for beginners | Medium-high (depending on engine capacity) |
| Ideal use | City and short journeys | Roads and long routes |
| Comfort | City discharge | Discharge on the road |
| Rental price | More economical | Varies according to displacement |
What do we recommend at Paddock Motorbike?
- Novice driver / urban use: 125 cc scooter: for easy mobility in the city and coastal areas.
- More experienced driver / mixed routes: 300 cc motorbike: to combine city and roads (e.g. excursions to El Médano or La Orotava).
- Expert driver / long routes or mountain: Motorbike of 500 cc or more: ideal for climbing the Teide, going to Garachico or doing long routes around the island.
At Paddock Motorbike, Tenerife, we advise you according to your experience and the route you are planning. We have a wide range of scooters, mopeds and motorbikes with the best conditions. Contact with us y choose the perfect vehicle to enjoy Tenerife at your own pace.
