Post by scootloose on Jul 24, 2008 23:28:36 GMT -5
Due to failing health I had to give up my 2006 Honda Goldwing this past spring but the need for wind in my hair (or whats left of it) has compelled me to investigate scooters for the first time. I simply could not handle the weight and safe operation of the Wing and realizing that I could not do so riding alone I was not about to put my wife of 34 years on it with me. Anyway, there are no B&M dealers close to us that had what I wanted (basically a touring scooter) that was not overpriced or had the looks and features wanted. After much Internet research I settled for and ordered a Jmstar 250 Roadster from Family Motor Sports. It has not been shipped yet and based on some of the postings on this forum I'm not so sure it will be a dependable machine. A couple of things that sold me on it were it's having both front and rear anti-lock disc brakes. It has a trunk, saddlebags and under seat storage (enough for a weekend getaway), a two-up seat and 13" wheels. It has a 19HP rated water cooled engine and a large fuel tank that should give a 220 -250 mile driving range. It should, I was told it would have enough power for two-up as my wife and I take frequent rides in mountainous areas (for anyone familiar with the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive in Virginia.) I don't anticipate running it at the top rated speed of 75-85mph but I want something that can do 65-70 without undo strain on the engine (most drives will be secondary roads at 55mph. It has a 1 year parts warranty and 2 year engine warranty. Being priced 'middle-of-the-road' of all I have looked at I didn't want to spend big bucks only to find out I don't like the way scooters ride or handle nor did I want to get the cheapest thing available and have a maintenance nightmare with it. Being new to scooterdum (and before I accept delivery) I am throwing myself upon the wisdom of the forum for opinions of my choice of scooter and dealer to ask if other better and comparably priced machines or reputable on-line dealers exist. I know this is Chinese bike of lower reputed quality (essentially a clone of a Honda Reflex) but at a considerably lower price. As a footnote, I am somewhat mechanically inclined and don't anticipate problems with normal maintenance and simple troubleshooting. If any of the OEM parts can be replaced with better quality aftermarket parts (electrical, fuel lines, fuel pump, lights, belt etc.) any info. there would be appreciated as well. Thanks to all who respond.
Scootloose
Scootloose
