Moped lovers ride into Union Square on two wheels

By Liz Nichols

Mopeds, scooters, and even a few electric bicycles filled Union Square Plaza Saturday for a night of music and video celebrating two-wheeled transportation. The scene was the first ever Somerville Moped-Scooter Rally & Concourse.

Pedestrians, cyclists, and car owners alike were welcome too at the all inclusive ArtsUnion event and the Somerville Arts Council.

A stage was set up outside the Independent Pub and local bands performed in front of a video screen showing animated clips and scenes from Quadrophenia, a 1979 British film featuring moped riding Mods. Also shown were clips from “Moped to South America” a documentary about Zach Levenburgh and Graham French's five month long moped road trip to the tip of South America.

The night started with local band The Big Disappointment taking stage at dusk. The crowd ranged from serious riders checking out others brands and models to young families with children dancing to the tunes. At first only a handful of mopeds were parked around Union Square Plaza but as the night progressed more two wheelers began arriving.

An orange moped with sidecar attached won the "Sweetest Ride" contest and sat alongside the second place winner, a 1964 Vespa.

The moped riders were as diverse as their vehicles - owners spanned the generations -- but many had the same reason for riding: cheap rates to buy and no special licenses are required.

The night culminated in a mass ride ending at The Otherside Cafe in Boston for more revelry and moped bonding.