Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: Moped Law UK, 50cc scooters, car license

Question
I wish to ride a Moped (1976 Puch)on my car license (passed before 2001,so legally can)but would like to know if I can legally remove pedals and fit footrests (I think some 50cc scooters are classed as mopeds and don't have pedals)? Thank you!

Answer
Well John, this is a unique question. I doubt if there is any legal precedent for this but I'll look into it for you.
The main problem that I can see is how would you go on with starting the machine? I had a Puch in the early 80's but it had footrests to begin with.
The Puch machine that I think it might be (The one with the steering lock that can take the ends off your finger if you're not careful) needs the pedals to start the engine so replacing them would basically remove the kickstart too. Pedals turn the engine over more times than a kickstart, a kickstart would turn the engine over two or three times per kick to start the engine whereas pedals need to turn it over around half a dozen times or so, a difference in the ignition systems I think. If you can arrange a kickstart mechanism that would work I'll get back to you on the legal issue.