50cc Moped vs. 150cc Scooter in Hawaii: Which Should You Rent?

If you’re planning to explore Oahu on two wheels, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to rent a 50cc moped or a larger 150cc scooter.

For most visitors, the answer comes down to three things: your driver’s license, whether you’re riding alone or with a passenger, and the type of ride you want to have.

At Waikiki Mopeds, our main options include the single-rider Solei’l GT 50cc and the larger two-passenger Solei’l RX 150cc.

Here’s how to choose.

50cc Moped: Simple, Solo and Easy to Explore With

Our Solei’l GT 50cc is a single-rider moped and is the option that will make sense for many Waikiki visitors.

Waikiki Mopeds requires 50cc renters to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and have a major credit card available at check-in. The rental includes one helmet and a chain with lock.

You don’t need a motorcycle license just to operate a qualifying moped in Hawaii. Hawaii Department of Transportation guidance states that moped operators need a valid driver’s license.

That makes the 50cc a good choice for visitors who want their own ride without needing a motorcycle endorsement.

150cc Scooter: More Power and Room for a Passenger

Our Solei’l RX 150cc is the larger option and can seat two people.

Waikiki Mopeds requires the renter to be at least 21 years old and have a valid motorcycle license. A major credit card is also required at check-in.

This option makes more sense for qualified riders who want a larger vehicle or want to ride with a passenger rather than renting two individual 50cc mopeds.

What’s the Biggest Difference?

For most tourists, the most important difference isn’t actually the engine size.

It’s which one you’re legally and comfortably able to ride.

If you’re at least 18 and have a valid regular driver’s license that meets the rental requirements, the 50cc moped is likely the option you’ll be looking at.

If you’re at least 21, have the required motorcycle license and want the ability to carry a passenger, the 150cc becomes an option.

That one question can usually narrow things down immediately.

Can Two People Ride on a 50cc Moped?

No.

The Solei’l GT 50cc is a one-person rental, and Hawaii law prohibits carrying another person on a traditional moped.

So if you’re visiting Oahu as a couple or with friends, you have two basic choices.

Each qualified rider can rent their own 50cc moped, or a qualified motorcycle-licensed rider can consider our two-passenger 150cc.

For a lot of couples, having two separate mopeds is actually part of the fun. Everyone gets their own ride and can experience the trip for themselves.

Which Is Better for Riding Around Waikiki?

If most of your plans involve Waikiki, Diamond Head, Kahala and nearby Honolulu, you don’t necessarily need to choose a larger vehicle just because one is available.

The 50cc is already a great way to get outside the hotel district, explore at your own pace and make stops throughout the day.

You can check out our guide to Best Places to Ride a Moped From Waikiki for ideas on where to go.

Best Places to Ride a Moped From Waikiki: 5 Scenic Oahu Stops

Which Is Better for Couples?

This depends on what kind of experience you want and what licenses you have.

If both people meet our 50cc requirements, renting two separate mopeds means you each get to ride.

If you’d rather ride together, the 150cc seats two—but the driver must meet our age and motorcycle-license requirements.

So don’t book based only on the number of seats. Check the driver’s license requirements first.

What If You’ve Never Ridden Before?

Bigger isn’t automatically better.

The best rental is the one that matches your license, experience and comfort level.

Waikiki and Honolulu have busy roads, buses, pedestrians, bicycles and changing traffic conditions. If you’re unfamiliar with riding on Oahu, give yourself time to become comfortable with the vehicle before planning a long trip.

You also shouldn’t choose a route just because a navigation app says it’s the fastest way there.

If you’re unsure where to go, ask us before you head out.

Our staff can help you think through a realistic ride based on where you’re trying to go and what you’re renting.

Do You Need a Motorcycle License?

This is one of the biggest differences between the two options.

For our 50cc moped, Waikiki Mopeds requires a valid driver’s license and a minimum renter age of 18.

For our 150cc, Waikiki Mopeds requires the renter to be at least 21 and have a valid motorcycle license.

If you’re still unsure about the rules, read our complete guide:

Do You Need a License to Rent a Moped in Hawaii?

50cc vs. 150cc: The Simple Answer

Choose the 50cc moped if you’re riding solo, meet the 18+ rental requirement and have a valid driver’s license.

Consider the 150cc scooter if you’re at least 21, have the required motorcycle license and want the option to ride with a passenger.

Neither one is automatically the “better” rental.

The right one depends on who is riding and what you want to do while you’re here.

Explore Oahu With Waikiki Mopeds

Waikiki Mopeds is located at 2449 F Kūhiō Avenue in Waikiki, giving you an easy starting point for exploring Honolulu and beyond. The business currently offers both single-rider 50cc and two-passenger 150cc options.

Already know which one you want?

Choose your rental, select your dates and start planning your ride.

Best Places to Ride a Moped From Waikiki: 5 Scenic Oahu Stops

Do You Need a License to Rent a Moped in Hawaii?

Use those guides to plan your ride and make sure you’ve selected the right rental before heading out.