Gas in the US has seen average prices above $4.00 a gallon, and though things are lower right now, everyone's still whining and we all know it could get even worse. Alternative transportation is a big thing and getting bigger.
Tomos is alive and well, but what about the others, the so called "fallen flags" I'm sure Damlier still owns the Puch Marquee, and Mobecane and Garreli must exist somewhere, if only in Europe or even only on some legal papers in the hands of another company. There's Lazer, Smiley, Jawa, Peugot..... (forgive me if I missed your favorite, this wasn't meant to be a complete list)
Think about it... Mopeds - the REAL, quality, European made ones... could make a comeback in the US. With all the low buck no-name crap out there made in asia by the lowest bidding factories, we need it!.
Things have changed! Chrome Moly, and 6061 and 6005 alloy aluminum, have changed from exotic status to affordable materials for mass produced products. Even titanium isn't as elite as it once was. Mopeds could be made so much more lightweight, and even though the EPA will force feed us 4 cycle restrictions, those have evolved too, with high power, killer revs and less weight then before. Think, a moped that you'd actually peddle a few miles without having a heart attack!!! Tomos, with well engineered lightweight framing, could put pedals back on. After all, it's MOtor or PEDdle people, lets not forget the humble roots of our beloved motorized bicycles.
Anyway, pardon my ramblings, and let's hear what your fantasy modern day ped's would be like. Show off your doodles of 2009 Mobylettes and Maxis.
Or not.... I can dream alone :)