Many times people will describe their vehicle in better condition than it exists. The call for a standardized lexicon to help determine the value and condition is needed so we can communicate the actual condition of a moped.
Mint (M)
A moped in mint condition should be in perfect, brand new condition. There should be no evidence of wear, and should show absolutely no signs of being used.
Near Mint (NM)
As the name implies, a near mint moped should be almost perfect. The moped should show no more than the most minor of defects and the paint and decals should be practically flawless. Typically, a moped in Near Mint condition would be Mint but for possibly one small defect, maybe a minor surface abrasion or a tiny ding on the tank.
Excellent (EX)
A moped in Excellent condition will show signs of use in that there will be some light scratches or surface abrasions on the moped, but this will not affect the ride quality in any way. The body or engine may have some tiny amounts of scuffing.
Very Good (VG)
A moped in Very Good condition will have numerous light scratches or scuffs, but it should still operate without noticeable deterioration of the ride quality. The seat may have a small split, or have noticeable scuffing and creasing along the edges. The paint and decals may be slightly discolored and some ring wear may be visible.
Good (G)
An moped in Good condition can be operated without trouble starting or idling, but there may be some hissing or extra noise. The seat will have some seem splits, scuffing, creasing, and may also be discolored. Ring wear may well be visible and movable parts may show signs of wear and tear.
Fair (F)
A moped in Fair condition can probably still be operated, but the quality will not be Good. It may possess some noise and bad scratches, and the tank may be slightly rusty.
Poor (P)
A moped in Poor condition may be unrideable in that the frame may be cracked, warped, or have several deep scratches. The tank is most likely rusty, and the moped itself may have been defaced, rattle canned, or written on. The motor may be torn down, split, or badly maintained. The fairings, lights, and switches may be unoriginal or missing.
Most mopeds are different variations of poor- which may need a new classification system just for that category. Mint mopeds which are no longer in production are a true rarity, with each step down in condition a step down in value. Modifications both performance and aesthetic rarely add to the mopeds value, but often do not decrease it either: condition is the commanding guideline for valuing a moped.
