As its name suggests, a two-wheeler is a vehicle with two wheels, either motorised or non-motorised. All two-wheelers comprise a seat for the driver and, in some cases, a passenger.
Bicycles, mountain bikes and electrically assisted bicycles are included in the non-motorised two-wheeler category. Scooters, motorbikes, mopeds and Solex mopeds are motorised two-wheelers, i.e. they are propelled by a mechanical motor, which in most cases is a petrol combustion engine.
Two-wheelers are governed by the same regulations are other motorised vehicles. This means that drivers or riders are required to comply with the Highway Code. Where they infringe road traffic rules, two-wheeler drivers or riders may also be issued with a fine. Where the driver of the two-wheeler possesses a driving licence, points may be placed on his/her licence, depending on the category of offence concerned. Some types of two-wheeler, such as 50cc scooters, mopeds and Solex mopeds, are not permitted to travel on certain types of road, such as motorways. All two-wheeler owners are required by law to have insurance (third-party insurance). All scooters and mopeds must now be registered.
In environmental terms, non-motorised two-wheelers do not pose any threat to the environment. Motorised two-wheelers, meanwhile, are considered highly polluting. Some types of two-wheeler are also responsible for high levels of noise pollution.