I went to a lawyer and he looked up the specifics on Michigan. This is what he wrote. So now we have the SOS and Lawyer point of views. They seem pretty consistent.
MCL 257.33 is the definition of a “motor vehicle”. It is below, as is the moped law, 257.32b, which appears to apply to your bike. You can find these and other laws at
Michigan Legislature, filling in the number under “MCL Section”.
As to a moped, the following apply:
257.216 – a moped does not need a certificate of title.
257.217b – a moped and a low-speed vehicle shall have permanently affixed to their frame a manufacturer’s identification number.
257.312a – you need a special restricted license to operate a moped. (All you need to get it is a driver’s license). $7.50 for the first time and $6.00 for the renewals. You have to renew every 4 years, so it comes to less than $2.00 a year.
257.657 – you have to obey the law as to speed, stop lights, etc.
257.658 – you have to sit on the seat, only one can ride, and you have to wear a helmet if you are under 19
257.660 – don’t ride on the sidewalk, stay to the right as far as possible, don’t go between traffic lanes.
257.661 – don’t carry a package or bundle that would keep you from having both hands for steering
257.679a – don’t go on a limited access highway
257.685 – you need a headlight
257.697b – you need a rear stop lamp (the requirements for both lamps are set out in 257.697 and 257.702)
257.705 – you need front and rear brakes
257.706 – you need a horn that can be heard 200 ft.
257.801e – IMPORTANT – this section sets out what needs to be done to register the vehicle. You should familiarize yourself with it and take your questions to a secretary of state office, telling them that you made the vehicle from a kit. They should be able to tell you what you need.
