Toyota’s specified small moped is the standing three-wheeled “Swake.” The rear leans, giving it a motorcycle-like ride. [Japan Mobility Show 2025]

A “specified small motorized bicycle (specified small moped)” can be driven without a driver’s license. When cornering, the body and rear area lean!

The “specified small motorized bicycle (specified small moped)” came into effect on July 1, 2023. The main conditions for a specified small moped are:

・Maximum speed 20km/h (riding on sidewalks is 6km/h or less → specially specified small motorized bicycles)

・Riding is limited to roadways, bicycle paths, and bicycle-only lanes (riding on sidewalks is 6km/h or less → specially specified small motorized bicycles)

・Wearing a helmet is mandatory

・You must be 16 years of age or older to drive・

No driver’s license required

・License plates and compulsory automobile liability insurance are required

The photo shows a prototype small moped called the “Swake” produced by Toyota. The electric motor is mounted at the rear and drives both the left and right wheels. The lithium-ion battery is also located in the rear.

Developed with the concept of “a stand-up three-wheeler that allows free, safe and enjoyable short-distance riding,” Swake uses a stand-up riding system that eliminates the need for a riding seat.

The key point of Swake is that not only the body of the vehicle, such as the step board, but also the rear area, which is the drive unit, tilts in tandem. The introduction of this system achieves smooth cornering. A test ride was also held at the venue to highlight the unique operability.

When I test drove it, the first thing I noticed was the excellent straight-line stability and sense of security that only a three-wheeled model (one front wheel and two rear wheels) can offer. The combination of the leaning body and rear area is particularly effective in tight corners where tight turning is required.

Compared to Honda’s “Gyro” three-wheeled bikes, in which the rear of the drive unit does not tilt and only the body tilts, I was able to experience the excellent maneuverability of this bike, such as being able to move nimbly. I thought this would be a great advantage in the dense residential areas and city streets.