Barcelona

🛵

Scooters and Motorbikes

Sections

1. Categories of Scooters and Motorbikes Available in Barcelona

Barcelona offers a wide range of scooters and motorbikes to suit different needs. Here are the main categories:

a. Mopeds (50cc)

  • Description: Small, lightweight scooters with engines up to 50cc. These are ideal for short trips within the city and are often used by locals for commuting.
  • Speed: Limited to 45 km/h.
  • License Requirement: AM license (minimum age: 15) or a car driving license (B) held for at least 3 years.
  • Best For: Beginners, short distances, and urban use.

b. Scooters (125cc)

  • Description: Mid-range scooters with more power, suitable for city use and occasional trips outside Barcelona.
  • Speed: Up to 100 km/h.
  • License Requirement: A1 license (minimum age: 16) or a car driving license (B) held for at least 3 years.
  • Best For: Commuters and those who need more speed and range.

c. Motorbikes (250cc and above)

  • Description: Larger motorbikes with more powerful engines, suitable for long-distance travel and highway use.
  • Speed: Can exceed 120 km/h.
  • License Requirement: A2 license (minimum age: 18) for bikes up to 35 kW, or A license (minimum age: 20) for unrestricted power.
  • Best For: Experienced riders and those planning trips outside the city.

d. Electric Scooters and Motorbikes

  • Description: Eco-friendly options with electric motors. These are becoming increasingly popular in Barcelona due to the city’s push for sustainability.
  • Range: Typically 50–150 km per charge.
  • License Requirement: Same as for petrol-powered scooters and motorbikes.
  • Best For: Environmentally conscious riders and those looking for quieter, low-maintenance options.

2. Costs

a. Purchase Costs

  • Mopeds (50cc): €1,500–€3,000 for new models; €500–€1,500 for used ones.
  • Scooters (125cc): €2,500–€5,000 for new models; €1,000–€3,000 for used ones.
  • Motorbikes (250cc and above): €4,000–€15,000 for new models; €2,000–€8,000 for used ones.
  • Electric Scooters: €3,000–€6,000 for new models; €1,500–€4,000 for used ones.

b. Rental Costs

  • Short-Term Rentals:
    • Mopeds (50cc): €20–€30 per day.
    • Scooters (125cc): €30–€50 per day.
    • Motorbikes (250cc and above): €50–€100 per day.
  • Long-Term Rentals:
    • Monthly rentals start at €150–€300 for 50cc scooters and can go up to €500–€800 for larger motorbikes.

c. Maintenance Costs

  • Insurance: €200–€500 per year, depending on the type and value of the vehicle.
  • Fuel: €5–€10 per week for city use (petrol costs around €1.70 per liter as of 2023).
  • Servicing: €50–€150 per service, depending on the vehicle type and service required.
  • Electric Charging: €1–€3 per full charge at public charging stations.

3. Licensing Requirements

To legally ride a scooter or motorbike in Barcelona, you need the appropriate license:

  • AM License: For mopeds (50cc). Minimum age: 15.
  • A1 License: For scooters up to 125cc. Minimum age: 16.
  • A2 License: For motorbikes up to 35 kW. Minimum age: 18.
  • A License: For unrestricted motorbikes. Minimum age: 20.
  • Car License (B): Allows you to ride scooters up to 125cc if you’ve held the license for at least 3 years.

International Visitors:

  • EU/EEA licenses are valid in Spain.
  • Non-EU licenses are valid for up to 6 months, but you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for translation purposes.

4. Local Traffic Rules

Barcelona has specific traffic rules for scooters and motorbikes:

  • Helmet Use: Mandatory for both the rider and passenger.
  • Reflective Clothing: Recommended, especially at night.
  • Speed Limits:
    • 30 km/h in most urban areas.
    • 50 km/h on larger city roads.
    • 80–120 km/h on highways (depending on the section).
  • Lane Splitting: Allowed, but only when traffic is stationary or moving slowly.
  • Bus Lanes: Motorbikes can use some bus lanes, but check for signage.
  • Alcohol Limit: 0.5 g/l in blood (0.25 mg/l in breath). For new drivers, the limit is 0.3 g/l (0.15 mg/l in breath).

5. Parking Regulations

Barcelona is scooter- and motorbike-friendly when it comes to parking:

  • Designated Parking Areas: Look for marked spaces for motorbikes, often found on sidewalks or near intersections.
  • Sidewalk Parking: Allowed if:
    • The sidewalk is at least 3 meters wide.
    • The scooter/motorbike is parked parallel to the curb.
    • It does not obstruct pedestrian traffic.
  • Prohibited Areas: Do not park in front of building entrances, bus stops, or pedestrian crossings.
  • Fines: Improper parking can result in fines of €50–€200 and possible towing.

6. Cultural and Practical Tips

  • Popularity: Scooters and motorbikes are extremely common in Barcelona, so you’ll blend in easily. However, be prepared for heavy traffic during rush hours.
  • Weather: Barcelona’s mild climate makes riding comfortable year-round, but be cautious during occasional rain as roads can become slippery.
  • Theft Prevention: Use a sturdy lock and park in well-lit areas. Theft of scooters is not uncommon.
  • Eco-Friendly Options: The city encourages the use of electric scooters and offers subsidies for purchasing them. Check for government incentives if you’re planning to buy.
  • Ride-Sharing Services: Companies like Cooltra, Acciona, and Yego offer app-based electric scooter rentals. These are convenient for short trips and don’t require ownership.
  • Navigation: Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to navigate the city. Be aware that some streets in the Gothic Quarter and other historic areas are pedestrian-only.

7. Conclusion

Scooters and motorbikes are an excellent way to explore Barcelona, offering flexibility, affordability, and convenience. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, understanding the categories, costs, licensing, and local rules will ensure a smooth experience. Always prioritize safety, follow traffic regulations, and respect the city’s cultural norms to make the most of your time on two wheels in Barcelona.