Speed Limits and Control
- 1/31If riding a moped in an urban area
The maximum speed is 45 km/h for mopeds by construction. This limit applies even in cities unless otherwise restricted.
If riding a motorcycle in a built-up area
The general speed limit is 50 km/h in built-up areas unless signs indicate otherwise.
If riding a motorcycle on main roads
On open roads outside cities, motorcycles may be allowed to travel up to 80–100 km/h, depending on road classification.
If riding a motorcycle on highways
Motorcycles on Finnish highways may follow posted limits up to 120 km/h, same as passenger vehicles.
If moped is driven on rural roads
Even on rural roads, mopeds are limited to 45 km/h by design and law.
If rain reduces visibility
Riders must reduce speed accordingly during poor weather to maintain control and stop safely.
If the road is icy or snow-covered
In icy conditions, speed must be reduced significantly to avoid losing grip and control.
If riding during heavy fog
Fog requires reduced speed and proper lighting to ensure visibility for you and others.
If using studded tires in winter
Studded tires help maintain grip, but speed must still be adjusted based on surface and visibility.
If a pedestrian is crossing
At zebra crossings, motorcycle and moped riders must always yield to pedestrians.
If riding in a school zone
School zones typically have speed limits of 30 km/h or less, especially during active hours.
If traffic signs indicate lower limits
Posted limits override general speed rules and must be followed strictly.
If roads are wet but no snow
Even if not frozen, wet roads require slower speeds, especially for two-wheeled vehicles.
If riding near a playground or daycare
In child-dense areas, a 30 km/h limit is often enforced to reduce accident risk.
If moped is being used in a shared pedestrian zone
In shared zones, speed must be reduced to walking pace or below 20 km/h.
If a moped overtakes a cyclist
Safe overtaking requires reduced speed and enough lateral space to protect both riders.
If operating in residential areas
In residential streets, speed is often limited to 30 or 40 km/h, especially near intersections.
If riding after sunset
Proper lighting is mandatory, and speed must be reduced based on night visibility.
If approaching an uncontrolled intersection
Riders must slow down enough to stop safely, especially when visibility is obstructed.
If riding in light traffic during good weather
You may maintain posted speed, but still need to remain alert and within legal bounds.
If traffic is dense or congested
Congestion requires extra caution and slower speeds, especially for lane filtering.
If the pavement is uneven or cracked
Road surface defects require extra care, especially for two-wheelers, which are more affected.
If crossing a bridge in high wind
High winds can destabilize motorcycles, so speed and posture must be adjusted.
If school children are nearby without a crossing guard
In school zones, riders must stop even if there’s no crossing signal, when children are present.
If entering a roundabout
Lowering speed before entry ensures safer navigation in roundabouts.
If police set up a roadside check
Failing to reduce speed at control points may result in fines or inspection.
If following a heavy vehicle closely
Tailgating reduces reaction time; a lower speed ensures more space to stop.
If overtaking on two-lane rural roads
Sudden acceleration or tight overtakes are risky on narrow roads; pass only with clear visibility.
If surface is gravel or sand
Loose surfaces require very low speeds, or risk skidding or tipping.
If riding through a tunnel
Tunnel zones require headlight use and speed adjusted to tunnel conditions.
If approaching a pedestrian island or refuge
Speed should be low enough to stop, especially when pedestrians are near central islands.