If you want to buy a used moped, you may eventually have to dispose of it. Over time, even the best two-wheeler will become unusable. Just throw it in the landfill? This is not only a waste of valuable materials but also a serious threat to the environment. We will explain how to properly dispose of mopeds and their components, turning a problem into an opportunity.
Why is proper disposal of mopeds important?
A typical moped contains over 15 kg of metal, a liter of oil, battery acid, plastic, and rubber. If all this ends up in a landfill, toxic substances will seep into the soil and groundwater. Lead from batteries, heavy metals from electronics, and fuel residues pose a danger.
According to statistics, only 30% of old motorcycles are disposed of properly. The rest ends up in illegal dumps or is dismantled in a makeshift manner without adhering to environmental standards. Meanwhile, proper disposal can return up to 90% of materials back into production.
Quality motorcycles that will last long without complaints can only be purchased from verified suppliers. A well-known seller of motorcycles, mopeds, and ATVs in Ukraine is the company MotoGO. You can check out the assortment here: http://www.motogo.com.ua/uk.
What can be salvaged from an old moped?
Here are several components that can be recycled:
Metal components – the most valuable part. The frame, engine, fork, and wheel rims are primarily made of steel and aluminum. These metals are excellent for recycling. By taking them to a scrap metal collection point, you will not only earn some money but also help conserve natural resources, as producing metal from ore requires significantly more energy than recycling.
The battery requires special attention. Lead-acid batteries contain toxic lead and sulfuric acid. They are accepted at specialized points where valuable components are safely extracted. Each battery can be recycled up to 98%, recovering lead for new batteries.
Rubber and tires. This is a complex material to recycle, but there are pyrolysis technologies that allow for the production of fuel, carbon black, and metal cord. Some companies use old tires to produce playground surfaces or road coverings.
Plastic parts can be recycled if they are marked with the appropriate labels. Fairings, headlights, and seats often contain ABS plastic or polypropylene, which are suitable for secondary recycling.
Electronics and wires contain copper and rare metals. Quality disassembly allows for the extraction of these valuable elements for reuse.
Proper disposal can bring income. Scrap metal prices range from 5 to 15 UAH/kg depending on the type. The average moped weighs 60-80 kg, so you can earn a few hundred hryvnias. A battery separately costs 50-100 UAH. If you recycle components separately, the profit will be greater.
Creative transformation: upcycling mopeds
For those who love unconventional solutions, an old moped is a treasure trove for creativity. The frame can be turned into a unique chair or bench for the garden. The engine transforms into an industrial decor element in loft style. The fuel tank becomes an original nightstand or lamp.
Craftsmen create garden furniture, shelves, and even bar counters from old mopeds. Handlebars and mirrors find new life as coat racks. Speedometers and other instruments become wall decor in garages and workshops. Every detail can tell a story and add character to the interior.
You can profitably purchase motorcycles at the online store MotoGO. Delivery is carried out quickly throughout Ukraine.
