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Post by Andi on May 26, 2007 23:55:24 GMT -5
Yes, you've read correctly, finally my first ride on the Bandit. As my wife is newly licensed she wanted me to take the first ride(s) to make sure all is in order. Most scooters around here are used for fast food delivery (Pizza) and well ..... incidentally I went out this evening to pick up a Pizza for supper ;D. I actually did a thorough inspection last Sunday and was quite pleased with the overall fit and finish. I had to replace a few bolts (machine screws) as some were too short and/or cross threaded. Not a problem though as in anticipation I had purchased a box of 6 mm socket head motorcycle trim screws (even splurged by getting stainless steel) and a 6mm x 1.25 tap set. The luggage rack was the worst as the bolts were cross threaded and only caught the threading by 1/8", those were 8 mm x 1.25 which I purchased the next day (stainless again) including a tap set. I made sure to get them a good bit longer as the threaded stem accepted 3/4". The line up on the luggage rack was just a little off, but I took my time and got all bolts threaded in a good bit before tightening all up. I should also mention that I used locktite on all bolts including flat and spring washers as well as lock nuts where required. Initially the scoot was hard starting, it started up and immediately cut off again. I removed the seat attached to the under-seat storage housing (four bolts to remove) and had very good access to the carb. As it came with a bit of fuel in the tank and took over two (2) months after shipping to get started again, I figured maybe the jets where plugged. I cleaned both the idle jet and main jet (didn't really see any contaminants though) put it back together and after a few tumbles it started right up, then just took a very quick ride up and down the road. After almost a week sitting down, I gave it a quick check up; made sure all fluids were at the proper level; hooked up my charger, but the battery was still full; and it then started on the first bounce, my 200cc Dual Sport doesn't even do that after sitting the night. I then proceeded on my Pizza run: The acceleration is very quick, I'm glad I opted for the performance upgrade. As I drove at night (by 7:00 PM it's completely dark here) I was able to test the lights, and not only do they work very well the adjustment is right on. The suspension is a bit stiff, it's OK on the road, but that little stretch to my house (and new garage ;D) is quite rough, I'm guessing as with my Dual Sport it will soften up a bit as I get some miles on it. The mirrors are very stable no vibration at all (the once on my Dual Sport are useless). Blinkers and Horn work well. The alarm is simple, functional and easy to use, I was a little apprehensive after some of the things I've read. I got quite a few stares when I parked up at the Pizza Place and hit the alarm . The only problems I have encountered so far, is that the Speedo doesn't work (the odometer works) and using the remote starter, twice the starter motor kept running with the engine. Had to disconnect the battery and turn off the engine, I won't use it again for now. After contacting Jim he told me that he will send the parts to correct the problem. All over all I'm very happy with the scoot, great value for the money, I'm very happy with the purchase and would recommend Bandit Motorsports. It does require a little tinkering which I expected and didn't mind, certainly saved me a good bit of money over an otherwise established Brand name model. In comparison I like it much better then my 200cc Dual Sport, had a lot of tweaking to do before I got it to run properly. Andi Btw it's now official, "I is and no longer ain't no ScootDawg"
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Post by Aaron on May 27, 2007 1:17:40 GMT -5
Well Andi I hope it settles in quickly! Congrats on finally getting it tested and useable!
Aaron
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Post by scooterphil on May 29, 2007 6:54:31 GMT -5
Hello,
I'm considering purchasing a Bandit 150, 260, or Roketa Bali 250. Basically, from what I've read, I'm a lot more comfortable with the Bandits in terms of quality. Even so, the Bandit 260 is a bit more than what is in my budget. I might make the stretch, but it will be a difficult sell to my wife. I could go with a Bandit 150 with a performance upgrade. Will go with the US150 with the performance upgrade if I choose this option. I really want a 250cc, which is why I'm also considering the Roketa Bali 250, The Roketa is nearly $1000 less when shipping is taken into account. Does anyone have any suggestions about who to go to should I choose to by the Roketa? Does anyone know how fast the Bandit 150s can really go, both with and without the performance upgrade? Basically, I'm trying to find a decent scooter that will easily hit 60 MPH for under $2000 (after shipping). Any feedback, suggestions, or recommendations will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks. Phil
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Post by Dennis D on May 29, 2007 7:16:13 GMT -5
Not sure just what the Bandit performance upgrade entails, or just exactly what performance is afterwards. Andi might be able to tell us after getting a few more miles on his scooter. Hitting a for real 60mph easily?? For the most part, ain't going to happen with a chinese 150 in that price range unless the perf upgrade on the bandit does it. One exception.... Strada RX150i, which is a factory tweaked GY6 engine in a 50cc scooter frame. Runs great... but somewhat crowded in the legroom dept.
As for the rest of em... without modifications they'll likely never see an honest 60, let alone easily. Most will have a top speed of around 55 or maybe 1-2 mph more after breakin without several modifications being done. To do 60mph easily will take a bunch of work and/or money for almost any of them.
You'll probably come across a bunch of reports of box stock 150 GY6's running 65 or even 70 with the owners just as happy as can be about it. The speedos tend to all be optimistic by varying degrees, and a lot of owners either don't have the means to test their speedos against the standard(using GPS or radar)... or really don't want to know!
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Post by Aaron on May 29, 2007 7:22:46 GMT -5
And as to the 250's you get what you pay for. The Bali 250 can be a decent machine but you better be pretty mechanically competent. Buying from a local dealer is best so if there are issues they can be addressed. If you have to buy online these are the three companies that are better than most at support and service. John at Valley Scooters www.scootersus.com Jim at Bandit www.bandit-motorsports.com and Mike at Scootertronics www.scootertronics.comWelcome to the forum! Aaron
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Post by scooterphil on May 29, 2007 19:03:50 GMT -5
Thanks everyone for the great information. I have a fair mechanical ability. I've replaced a lot of parts on my cars that are associated with diy work- alternators, radiators, brake pads, etc. I even replaced a transmission in an old Datsun way back, when they were easier to work on. Wouldn't dare try that now, as cars seem much more difficult. My thinking is that the bikes won't be as difficult to take apart and put back together. Is this correct, or no.
Also,I checked the above suggested websites. The Avanti Upsilon 250 on the scootertronics website looks like it might be a good fit. Just slightly over budget. Is this a relatively decent quality bike? Don't mind putting in some hours for a while to get it up and running properly, but would rather not have to be constantly repairing it every week for the life of the bike.
Thanks for making me feel so welcome to the forum. Great information and feedback!!
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Post by Aaron on May 29, 2007 19:12:12 GMT -5
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Post by scooterphil on May 29, 2007 20:49:00 GMT -5
Wow! What great info. This is such a helpful forum. I already saw Jim's post about the 247 / 257 motors. I was also impressed with his website. I looked at the Linhai 260 at the scootronics website, and must say I really like the way the white model looks at the scootertronics website. Jim's bikes look pretty much the same, just no white. Still trying to decide if I can really afford this. I'm going to have to invest in safety gear, motorcycle license class, etc. on top of this. Even so, looks like it might be smart in the long run. Thanks for the info. Phil
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Post by Andi on May 29, 2007 22:15:33 GMT -5
Welcome to the forum scooterphil.
Not so long ago I had very similar questions and can honestly say I found all the answers right here. I've learned a lot from everybody's experiences and I'm sure there is a lot more to learn. I have certainly gained more insight into the Chinese scooter market and felt very confident with my purchase, I have not been disappointed. I knew what to expect and I got exactly that, of course I've hardly got any miles on it yet.
The performance upgrade simply allows the scoot to breath in and out better, it doesn't change the top speed as that is really a gear ratio or engine speed issue, but it improves the acceleration. The last scooter I rode was over 20 years ago and all I remember is that it was my Dad's red 80cc 2 stroke Yamaha and that it was awesome on gas. I don't particularly remember its performance except for thinking of it as being "lame" all around, but heck I'm much older and (hopefully) wiser now.
The Bandit is very quick in acceleration it even impressed me compared to my 200cc 5 speed Dual Sport Bike. As the speedo is out I can't give you too much feedback at this time, but no problem at lights to advance ahead of cars.
The 60 mph easily, you will only get with a 250cc, I ask the same question not so long ago and have spend some time looking into it. Unless you really like tinkering (and I do, but never have the proper time) stay away from modifying a 150cc. The mods will reduce the lifespan, likely end up costing the same as the 250cc, it will probably even burn more gas then the 250cc and will always just be a modified 150.
I ended up purchasing a RoadRunner Race 250, mostly because I didn't want a Maxi Scooter, it was very cost effective, I wanted to be able to attain highway speeds and I prefer the Linhai 257cc Yamaha clone engine. Besides it having a little more "humpf" I think the design is more practical for a scooter. The scoot and seller seems to get a lot of mixed reviews, but I can't comment much as my experience has been very limited so far, I send them the money and they send the scoot as promised. It is now waiting on me in Miami to be send, but that is a whole next story.
I don't know what you are looking to use the scoot for, but 2 up and highway riding requires a 250 and pending the desired level of comfort and your size you may well want a Maxi Scoot. The 150 is a personal ride and not advisable for highway riding.
Good luck and let us know what you decide.
Andi
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Post by scooterphil on May 29, 2007 22:52:41 GMT -5
Thanks for the response. I want to use the scoot as an alternate vehicle to my car. Its use will be mostly around town to and from work and errands to save on fuel and have some fun in the process. Most of the time I'll be on roads that run 45 MPH. In reality, traffic tends to run 50-55 on the 45 MPH roads in this area. In addition, I would like to be able to hop on the bike on weekends and take a country jaunt with my wife on the state highways here in Virginia. Speed limits are usually 55-60 on the highways, and traffic usually travels a little faster, 60-70. I don't plan on doing a lot of interstate travel, but would like to have the option to make a short run on the freeway periodically.
Thanks again, Phil
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Post by Andi on May 30, 2007 10:16:32 GMT -5
2 up and highway means you definitely want a 250cc scoot. Like I said, I didn't want a Maxi Scoot, I used to call them touring scoots - until I was advised and corrected - they are the once I would compare to the Honda Goldwing with the wrap around fairing and large windshield. I didn't like that big bike feel, I wanted something nimble like the more classic Italian scoots and considering my budget the only option was the RoadRunner Race 250. As I haven't got mine yet I really can't provide any review, but if that is what you are looking for, PM Stan from Oregon Vintage - www.oregonvintage.com - he may give you some further feedback. Following is a link to his initial review on the Race 250: www.oregonvintage.com/Racer250.pdf. In order to facilitate some further quick research read the following threads a lot of good info there, that should allow you to make a decision, to suit your needs: scootdawg.proboards59.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=talk&thread=1170921648&page=1scootdawg.proboards59.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=200cc&thread=1179582735&page=1#1179945719I didn't mind, in fact had no choice but to make an online purchase, as I don't reside in the US. I think it's great to have that option when a dealer isn't close. Of course parts and technical advise is very important and that's where a reputable dealer is key. I hope my experience will be positive one. Most of the Chinese 250's are Maxi Scoots, I have only found the standard scoots (what do you classify them as?) from Kymco (People - my fav, Bet & Win etc) or of course the Italian varieties, Aprilia, Piaggio and Vespa etc and in that order for pricing. Andi
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Post by scooterphil on May 30, 2007 19:12:41 GMT -5
Great. Thanks Andi. Actually, for me, the bigger the better, as long as I can afford.
Here's another set of questions. About a week ago, I went to what I understand to be the U.S. Roketa website (www.roketa.com), called their toll free line, and asked about reputable distributers. I did this before I knew about this forum. The person answering the phone told me to call Vince at Scooterdynasty.com, that he had good warranties and access to parts. Does anyone here know about this dealer? I'm really interested in a 250 that just posted to his website the last day or so called the 250cc Roketa Ranger MC-54-250. Seems to be significantly larger than the Bali 250, which is good since I am 6'4". Also has 13" wheels and by appearance would go 2 up. Very interested in this bike. Any info about the Dealer and the bike would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, Phil
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Post by Andi on May 30, 2007 20:27:16 GMT -5
Does look like a big scoot and comparing the specs its between 6" and 8" longer then the other two Maxi Scoots. Looking at the picture it uses the Linhai 257cc engine, but pictures and specs can be deceiving and inaccurate. There are only two models of 250cc engines available in Chinese Scoots. The CF Moto (Honda Helix clone) 244cc @ about 15.75 hp and the Linhai (Yamaha clone) 257 cc @ about 18.75 hp. These specs are also inaccurate, a Chinese 250cc would be hard pressed to get 85 mpg, well OK they said up to but ...... 60 to 65 mpg is more realistic; the top speed actually seems low, 70 up to 75 should be attainable; the dry weight should be closer to 370 lbs considering the size; 13" tires .... 12" tires no difference all the same O.D. the 13" is just less rubber height. Looking at all the pics of the three models some show the Linhai 257cc engine and some show the 244cc CF Moto engine. The CF Moto models could well have a 10" rear wheel unless it comes with the stretched CVT. Don't know if and what support Roketa and/or the Dealer may provide, but there has been a recent post about it: scootdawg.proboards59.com/index.cgi?board=questionable&action=display&thread=1178439971Andi
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Post by Andi on May 30, 2007 20:45:14 GMT -5
BTW my wife took her first ride today. As we had a holiday today we loaded the scoot in my van and drove down to the industrial estate where I work, nice big road and no traffic, perfect for a practise ride. Our plant yard is on the estate of the pitch lake, which is one of the natural wonders of Trinidad (besides Oil and Natural Gas). The pitch is sold world wide as the base ingredient for many asphalt product, including paving the Autobahn in Germany. Just a little by-note. Following are some pics and videos: The pitch lake is in the background, you can see a black ground behind the Palms on the left. also shown a future ScootDawg? Sorry for the quality, I took the video with a cell. It's a little faster with me riding ;D . Andi
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Post by lewtwo on May 30, 2007 21:01:44 GMT -5
Nice looking scoot Andi. What are you feeding that boy ? He is nearly as fast as the bike ! More like a future Olympic runner.
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Post by scooterphil on May 30, 2007 22:17:34 GMT -5
Thanks for all the great info, Andi. Good looking scoot. Glad it's working out. Looks like the family is having fun.
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Post by warchild63 on Jun 1, 2007 12:31:47 GMT -5
Andi, thanks for the continued review and pix of the scoot (Still waiting to place the order for mine); Your wife looks very happy and I must say, a better scooter driver than I. I'm trying to talk my wife into scootering but she's leery about it especially here in NYC. What is the fuel capacity and is the scoot as quiet as it sounds on your video? Based on Andi's review, this forum (and the good folks that chat here), the honest quick responses from Jim of Bandit Motorsports; If you have to order over the internet this is one dealer I would highly recommend!!!
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Post by Andi on Jun 1, 2007 21:44:11 GMT -5
warchild63,
The Scooter really is that quiet, it has a nice deep but pleasant rumble.
My wife was very hesitant at first as well and I'm glad she got into it. It all started with me buying a bike again after a good few years. She didn't know what to expect in advance, but really liked it when it arrived. I didn't want to push her into it, because that might just have killed any enthusiasm before she got started. One day she sort of mentioned, that she wondered whether she could ride a motorbike. I told her there was only one way to find out, to go to the driving school and take some lessons, if she didn't like it no harm done. Well ..... less then two months later she got her license and the rest is history.
Now she points out any bike she sees and is planning a camping trip on the scoots to our sister isle. She still needs to gain a little more confidence, but that will come with experience. I will encourage, but let her proceed at her own paste. I'm sure I influenced her interest in bikes, but I wouldn't push her, 2 wheeling is not for everyone. I grew up with bikes, started (legally) riding at 15, back then it was either a moped or the Bus and from there I just kept moving up. Incidentally my wife got me into scoots, to bad I only now got into it, they really are a blast besides being practical.
The fuel tank is listed at 4.8 liters capacity, never really checked it though, I've only once filled in gas from a jerry can.
Andi
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Post by cloudaz on Jun 2, 2007 18:03:46 GMT -5
ScooterPhil,
Come to the darkside, buy a 250, I bought a Bandit UC250Z and I ride it on the Freeway here in Phoenix Arizona and I have no problems keeping up with traffic, 70-80mph.
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Post by scooterphil on Jun 3, 2007 13:37:40 GMT -5
Cloudaz, After some conversations with my wife, it looks like I'm probably going to purchase a Rocketa MC-54 Ranger from Valley (I plan on ordering a DARK silver model-really looks like a metallic dark grey.). I've signed up for a motorcycle safety course in mid-July, and will get my license a day or two after that. Will order the bike somewhere between now and then. I'll keep you posted! Thanks for the encouragement. Phil.
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Post by Andi on Jun 3, 2007 18:27:07 GMT -5
Congrats, I hope it works out for you. Is your wife taking the course as well?
Keep us posted and good luck.
Andi
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Post by scooterphil on Jun 3, 2007 19:43:21 GMT -5
Andi,
My Wife is not taking the course. She has always been really leery of motorcycles. She saw a girl in a halter top lay one down on the freeway when she was a child. Even so, she has really warmed up to the idea of getting a scoot, because of the mileage, and because she likes the idea of piggybacking on it with me. She's even mentioned maybe someday we'll both be driving them. Quite a turnaround, more than I ever expected, so, we'll see. Maybe, down the road.
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Post by warchild63 on Jun 4, 2007 20:13:46 GMT -5
Andi; Thanks, I started buying odds & ends...took UR advice on the 6 & 8mm 1.25 bolts, etc... I don't remember if I read it on this forum or not or if it's sound advice; but, I read where when you get a "new" scoot you should use the kickstarter initially to build up "compression"? before using the starter? Does that sound like good advice to you, I'm new at riding scoots? I see you are a good husband & teacher by allowing you wife to experience the joys of riding at her own pace. I would love to get my wife into scoots but she will not ride in NYC, she is adamant about that. Continued good luck with the scoots and enjoy!
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Post by Andi on Jun 7, 2007 21:48:40 GMT -5
warchild63, I've never heard about the kick starter versus the electric starter yet. I can't imagine it makes a difference though. The battery on my Dual Sport blew up and I had to use the kick starter for a while, as I had to get the battery send out of the US (nothing available locally). Now I'm used to kick starting a two stroke had many of them, it never bothered me really didn't care for an e-starter there, but my 200cc Dual Sport was terrible to kick start. You have to set up the position right by gently pushing down the kick starter to line up the stroke just right and then give it a swift kick. That worked good some times but most of the time it didn't and it felt like I was breaking something on the bike. I don't know if I was still doing something wrong, but it seemed difficult, glad to have the battery back again. Never tried the kick on the scoot yet. My wife didn't get into motorcycles until my Dual Sport arrived . Andi
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Post by scooterphil on Jun 28, 2007 17:52:13 GMT -5
My Roketa MC-64 Ranger has been ordered- FINALLY!! I ordered the scooter from John at Valley Scooters. I'll Start a new thread when the scoot arrives.
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