You think NY sucks? IL is almost as bad. It took me 5 trips to the DMV to finally get my 'ped titled and registered. In IL you need a motorcycle plate and pass a riding test if your vehicle is 125ccs or more....for a moped, you have to pay the same amount of fees as a motorcycle, but you don't need a special classification on your license.
I bought my 'ped in November of 2000 and put it in the garage until April. When I went to pay the "use" tax, I was told that because I didn't pay it within 30 days of buying the 'ped (never mind that it sat in storage for 6 months)I would be charged penalties and interest!
Very ironic that most States advocate conserving fuel and using public transportation when possible, yet they put you through a huge hassle when someone wants to ride a moped.