SINGLE MOM ON A SERIOUS BUDGET!!!

[mom23]

HELLO ALL. MY NAME IS SHAWN AND I AM A SIINGLE MOM 2 3. I AM IN THE MARKET FOR A SCOOTER AND HAVE BEEN DOING SOME SERIOUS SEARCHING FOR A COUPLE OF MONTHS. I'M RE-ENTERING THE WORKFORCE AND THIS SEEMS THE BEST FOR TRANSPORTATION.

THIS WHOLE CHINESE SCOOTER THING IS FRIGHTENING TO SAY THE LESAT... BUT I MAY HAVE TO BITE THE BULLET AND GO FOR IT.

!!!!RECOMMENDATIONS PLEASE!!!!!

MUST BE CARB! I'M IN CA AND CAN'T AFFORD TO QUIBBLE WITH DMV.

I'M THINKING 150CC IS BEST.

;D GLAD I FOUND YOU

[tortoise]

Modesto Junior College Motorcyclist Training
Modesto Craigslist
Oil change video
Proper riding gear is essential.

[hammer161264]

that video was messed up
ouch!!!!

[mom23]

thanks... but the only thing from here that pertains to my sitch is the training class. i've been in this forum skulking about collecting info for a while now,
8-)now what i need is the goods.
even with all the "flak"... i'm considering the sunl sl150-26.
if anyone can help with this or similar bikes.... i'd worship the ground you scoot upon ;D!

[scooterollie]

Welcome to the Dawg Pound!

Look at 150 cc scoots from Lance, Fly and Qlink. Great quality for the price. Yes, Sunl may be a risk for you.

[mom23]

Great looking scoots, but is there something more? I do have some/ minimal mechanical

ability. I don't mind doing some work myself. Really need something to get me thru the year.

After that we can talk upgradin'. I just finished school and I need transport to local interviews

and temp jobs. I don't need the cadillac of low end scooters, but a ride that will get me from

a2b. I won't be traveling farther than 10 miles in any direction and everything here is pretty

flat.

based on this info... got any for me?

[rerun2]

Hi Mom!!

Glad to have you among the pack!

From your posts, I gather that you need to travel only short distances, and believe that a 150cc scooter would provide the performance you need. Sooooo basically the focus is on a scooter that is the most 'economical', and though not emphasized, reliable as well.

First off, the purchase price being the lowest assuredly does not mean the scooter will be the most economical... more likely the really cheap priced bike will RAPIDLY get considerably more expensive than one properly set up and tested before it is turned over to you. A hundred or two hundred may loom really large when you tack it onto a selling price, but if you have to do a lot of repairs the cost will be similar, and you will not have the use of the scooter while you figure matters out, then effect the repair, adjustment, or whatever remedy is needed.

This forum is a great resource, and can go a long way in helping one keep their ride on the road, but it cannot replace a good mechanical tech.! I just think it is better to have the preventive maintenance than dealing with a string of minor but debilitating problems.

OK, I will dispense with the lecture now, if you have been lurking about, I am sure you have seen all that previously! Scooteollie gave you some 'brands' that members here have had good experiences with. I would mention the XingYue ITA 150, this scooter has not been around until recently, but has gotten a lot of interest, and those that have purchased one seem more than pleased with the bike. The fact that www.scootertronics.com has added this to their offerings is about as good a recommendation as one can get. Michael and his guys don't mess with junk, and test out things before they put them on the market. They are on the opposite side of the continent but that model is being sold by a number of dealers, and at extremely good prices, 1K is the lowest I have seen for a non-prepped scooter.

Good luck in your search, do consider the used markets as well, a local scooter club (if there is one) can be a good resource. Some folks there should know what is worth having in the local market, and can really be a help in a lot of ways. IF there is a local club!

[Aaron]

I would seriously look at the Fly Scooter line up. The Il Bello may just be the ticket for you. Very reliable, dealer sales only, and they are based out of CA. Give the owner a shout his name is Leon. [e-mail] Good thing about Fly is you would not have to be able to work on it. IF it broke they would fix it. One year parts and labor warranty extendable to two years. The Il Bello model is $1999 and is 150 cc. Regardles of what you get in your situation do not buy off the internet. Buy from a reputable dealer near you. That way if there is problem your down time is minimized. Welcome to the group. And yes it is CARB aproved.

Aaron

[isawhim]

EDITED: I just noticed you are from California... Triple check, and confirm that the scooter you purchase, can be registered in California. Due to strict emissions laws, and some of these scooters poor records, California will NOT allow many of them to be registered. Just look for the "Legal in California", logo or statement.

There is nothing wrong with the scooters that are not legal, they just fail to have proper documentation, or to pay California for legality checking. (I don't think there is one scooter that wouldn't pass the California smog-laws. Not when they all get over 40 MPG. Yet Harley Davidson's with 20 MPG are OK.)

Some scooters that are C.A.R.B. approved...
abacus-es.net/motorscooter/luxuryscooter.html

I too can personally, and safely recommend the "ITA Super-charge XY150T"... (At the moment, it is not C.A.R.B. approved.)

However... Before I do that, I want to ask you a few quick questions... "How strong are you?", I only ask, because 150cc scooters are not as light as the little 50cc rentals you see. Also, "How tall is your inseam?"...

No, I am not hitting on you... The ITA XY150T is a slightly taller scooter. 33 inches high on the crotch. I have to tippy-toe, or lean heavy on one foot. (The bike is perfectly balanced, but having to hold it at a slight angle may freak you out if you are a "Tooth-pick" girl.)

I am not saying that you have to be the "Hulk", but if you are petite, and built like Paris-Hilton... you may find it to be a difficult task to do every day.

I can even help you through the mild assembly, as I have even detailed the entire process in another post.

Here is some photo's from my scooter.
(The photo-area scrolls. The links load the photo's)
www.isawhim.com/scooter/index.htm

Normal upkeep would be the usual...
- Oil changes (Easy)
- Gear oil changes (Easy)
- Air filter (Easy)
- Break-pads (Sort-of easy)
- Spark-plug (Sort-of easy)
- Refueling (Easy, but may be annoying.)
- Light-bulb replacement (Sort-of easy)
- Tire air (Easy)
- Tire replacement (Need a mechanic for that.)

The tires are tubeless tires, unlike cheap scooters with tubes.

The scooter can be gotten for as low as $1198.00, shipped... But, the site above, offers more support, as I am told.

[mom23]

Thanks u "guyz" r gr8! I've been sitting here researrching all this

info like a fingerless logger with an axe to grind! ;D

As far as the question of my size.... ....

I am 5'5" and 240. ( ain't nuthin but a #). I have a lot of mus.

mass. and am reasonably strong. i have to dead lift patients

sometimes.... as well as kids that are almost my height. I have

also been known to pick up our apartment lush and get him back

to his wife before he kills himself on the concrete stairs.


So... long story short, i think the weight shouldn't be a problem.

[isawhim]

I was more concerned with the "Seat Height", your in-seam length. (My pants are 32-inch inseam, but my scooter seat is 33-inches high. Also, leg-clearance when sitting can be a problem on some scooters. If you were tall, you would LOVE this style scooter. I am about 5'9", and my knees touched the front of my other scooter. That hurts when you hit a bump!)

You should not have to worry about the seat-height, at that size. (Remember, most are made for Chinese and Korean market. The U.S.A. is finally starting to come into the market now. We are about in 10th place for scooter purchases. But thanks to the internet, we will soon be in fourth place.)

[mom23]

I get ya "Whim", in mens pants i wear a 32" inseam, but I'm certain if i was to wear them the

way a man does( to hit top of foot... not bag around them ) it would be more like a 30".



Ok.... so now I have a general price range. I've been saving coin inan old 5 gallon alhambra

jug and it's pretty full now. " coinstar'd " the majority of it (mostly pennies) and I'm going to

match it.

DRUM ROLL PLEASE!

Ok. enuff of the sillys. In that jug was $500 and some change. So my budget is around

$1000. Not too bad but coulda been better.

[mom23]

Ok guyz....

I found this scoot... anyone have this ?

www.mxmotorsports.us/BMS-p/bms-bemine-150.htm

I love the fact that it has all the aftermarkets i want

included for around what i'm "pinching"! In love with the blue... the black is good. but my 4yo

keeps screaming " get the pink one mom ...get the pink ...i want pink! "

I think not

[mom23]

I forgot there are ;D these ones too!


www.mxmotorsports.us/VIVA-MOPED-p/mp150zoom.htm

www.mxmotorsports.us/Velocity-p/mp150-02.htm



Will ya let me know some thoughts... opinions.... please all.......

"LET ME PICK YA BRAINZ!"

[isawhim]

I would go with the first one... It is the lightest, and you will seat-it fine. Plus, due to the weight, it will go faster. (They are all the same guts underneath.)

The second one, I do not like, only because of the heavy weight, and slow speed rate.

The third one... OMG, 36" seat height! You may need a stool to get on it, and platform shoes to touch the ground when you stop! Also, same issue, big and heavy. Plus, there is only one shock on the rear, the bike will ultimately ed-up leaning to one side, driving funny. (Touring bikes are great if they have 200+cc engines... at 150cc, it is like a big 50cc scooter. You will not enjoy that bike. Plus, a bike that big, and heavy, on air-cooled, you can almost expect it to overheat.)

The kid down the block from me, has that first one... but it is manufactured as "Eagle". The bike he has, seems a little fast worn. Looks like he drove it through an endurance race, and it is two years old... yet, he just drives it on the street, and it is only about a month old.

His rubber-floor-mat is all curled, and wrinkled. Exhaust case and pipe is already rusting, tires are chewed up, and it is missing some cosmetic parts... (Don't get that same scooter, manufactured under the "Eagle" name... Get that exact one you linked to!)

This = Bad...
www.lys.name/cp_detail.php?id=63287&nowmenuid=47810&cpath=&catid=0

Your link = Good
www.mxmotorsports.us/BMS-p/bms-bemine-150.htm

[shescoots150]

Hi Mom
I completly understand where you are coming from on having a limited budget and also being fearing you might end up with something that may not be dependable and ect.

If it may help you some I have one of the scoots that you have questioned. I have the Viva 150cc Zoom. Tho I have only had it for 3 months, I have as of yet have not had any problems of any kind with this scooter. I go almost everywhere on it and my husband and I have both ridden it together on several occassions.
Hope this helps you on at least one of the scoots in question.

If you have any more questions about that paticular one , pm me and I will be happy to offer any assistance.

[isawhim]

VIVA rider... can you confirm these numbers?

Max Speed: Up to 55mph
Miles per gallon: 50-55 mpg

I only ask, because highways go 65-75 MPH, but cars there go 75-85 MPH. So, if the scooter only goes 55 MPH max, it may be unsafe or potentially destructive to ride in a 45 MPH road, where people usually drive 45-55 MPH.

(Driving at max speed, damages the engine quickly on a hot day. Which is why I suggested the bms-bemine-150, which has Max speed of 65 MPH, and fuel economy of 75-80 MPG.)

Though, 55 MPH is not bad, it will take a good while to get there, on flat land. At the pump, you will be refilling almost twice as much. Every two days, to be exact... Since you are 10 miles from work, two days there and back, is 40 miles. While the other scooter, you could stretch it to four days before a refill.

If the max speed is 55, and you drive 45... you will not get 50 MPG, since you are at nearly 82% of your max speed. That is like driving 120 MPH to work, in a car that goes 140 MPH max.

However, if you drive 45 MPH, and your max speed is 65 MPH, you are closer to 70%, which would realistically get you that 80 MPG. More, if you look ahead, and ease off the throttle in advance of a yellow or red light. Even more still, if you kill the engine on a long light. (Unless you have trouble getting the bike started often.)

However, the Vivo does have a 2.6 gallon tank... so you would have to fill it every four days, just that it will cost you almost twice as much to drive, on fuel.

How much are the vivo replacement disk breaks? I can not find that custom style on any websites. Might want to ask a senior owner, who has had to replace breaks, about the cost there. Better yet, ask the dealer themselves. (If they can not give you an answer, they might not have them, or know where to get them either.)

[shescoots150]

Isawhim, I wanted to make sure before I answered the questions on max speed ans mpg, I wanted to make sure: When you said Viava Rider, were you talking to me?
And if so I thinks I smell a debate coming on but will be more than happy to answer those questions, but before I do I feel have to clarify a couple of things about my post reply. You gave an excellent reccomendation and alot of knowledgeable info. I will be honest that I can not offer the same. I don't even pretend to know half as much of any technical wisdom that you or any of the other members here. But I am learning and do admire yours and others know how.

Let me please clarify that I, myself did not inply in any way that she should purchase the Viva Zoom. She asked for all imput and any recommendations. If you read my reply again I never even made a reccomendation.
Shawn stated several scoots she had looked at. When one of the scoots in question just happened to be one I had I simply told her I owned one and would be happy to answer any questions about it.
I was very careful in what I answered and that is why I told her to pm me.
I respect everyone's opinions and advise here. I really do. That is what this site is about. But If it is noticed I don't posts much any more in fear starting a disagreement or something. I dont think I should feel that way. But that is a whole new thread. Isn't it?

[isawhim]

Sorry Shescoots, I did not want that to come out as seeming negative. I hoped that she would inquire about those details, as well as the others. (Being a first time buyer, it is always the smaller details that get overlooked. I am not sure why you purchased that scooter, or under what circumstances.)

I think it is great that she can talk to you about it, and I hope she does. Knowing first-hand, about a purchase, (Which I still think is a good purchase, just not, in my opinion, the best of those three.)

To me... This is like having to choose between a Lamborghini, a Ferrari, and a mini-cooper. (Mini-cooper being the last of the three links. The one with slow speed, heavy weight, small tank, and only one shock.)

Again, I apologize, to both of you, if I seemed partial to that one only. (In speed, fuel-economy, and weight, I favor the first selection. I know nothing about the quality of the ride, of either scooter.)

I also wanted to point out, as with all scooters, not that one only... that being able to get parts directly from the source, is a show of support, and a sign of future problems, if they do or do-not have replacement parts available. (The ONLY thing I saw that might bring trouble, was those disks for the disk breaks. Most scooters have simple replaceable hollow-Frisbee style disks. Those have a knife-pattern, and a salad-bowl shaped custom rails that attach to the tire, which looks like one piece. Breaks wear thin, rather fast on heavy scoots, or warp in time. This is why I suggested she inquire a senior owner... They will have replaced, or can confirm longevity of the part, and possibly availability of difficulty to find. No breaks, = no scooter driving. That can be as bad as a broken engine, if you can not find a compatible replacement in the future. If that is a custom item, to that scooter... That is a strong possible future outcome.)

[mom23]

Thanks for the responses. All the info I can get from anyone who has "been there and done that" is greatly appreaciated. My budget calls for me to take a risk and "BUY CHEAP CHINESE".

That being said, I want to research every possibility before I take my leap of faith.

[isawhim]

Don't worry, you are looking in the correct direction...

The only thing cheap on those scooters, is the price, not the quality.
(They are not Harleys, and they are not "Pep-Toys".)

[mom23]

You guys are so gr8!

[thecheermom823]

Hey Sis!
Decided to get serious about looking too! Hopefully there is someone who can help me find what I'm looking for as well!

Good luck!

[newc77]

Mom23: Since you are in Ca. you should check out Scooters/Factory.com
A reputable dealer and the importer of the Lance (Znen) scooter line. They have some sales up and running right now on their site. Znen also makes Fly and Bandit. Znen is one of the best of the Cheap Chinas. No problem with registration in CA either.
I fear if you go too cheap you will make up for it in costs of repairs. I do understand the budgetary limits but you will get what you pay for...why pay for trouble? Get the best bike you can afford.
You should take a rider safety course.
You will need to find a dealer or local mech to handle your repairs and maintenance if you are not mechanical. S/F does repairs on site if you are close to them.
You will also need riding gear. It is essential to your safety, in my opinion, and that includes helmet, boots, jacket and gloves-minimally.
Oh yes, do not forget insurance on your new two wheeler. These are extra expenses that can save your life and should not be overlooked in the budget for becoming a scooterist.
I recommend you check out the link on this site for Scooter World magazine. They sell an excellent book for beginners (Scooters for 'Idiots') that is full of essential info. It was a second Bible for my wife and I last summer.
Best wishes in your search and bless you,
Tom

[newc77]

Mom23: I just checked the sales and for $1300-1500 you can get one of the Lance 150 models delivered to your door assembled (will need a few things set up by you or a mechanic). Includes 12 mo/12000 mile warranty. Znen makes good bikes. You should check this out if you are seriously interested in a decent cheap China. No---I don't work for them honest. Just like ours a lot.
Tom

[anthonyvs]

mon 23
I will say this, if you decide to go with a dealer that drop ships, you better open that box up and check the bike out real well before you except shipment. to many people have ordered a bike and ended up with a diiferent product or a bike that was damaged in shipment. You also have to be careful with warranties. If you purchase a bike with a warranty make sure its with a company that has provin themeslves to honor the warranty. Not all companys honor there warranties. IN some cases you have to prove that the bike was not neglected.

[newc77]

That is good advice. The shipper should wait while you uncrate and inspect. The carrier that brought ours had a policy of waiting 20 minutes and letting you check things out. We did not sign for delievery until we did.
Tom

[anthonyvs]

I was looking at that third scooter. that looks exactly like my roketa. i have a 32 inseam and its fine for me. when you sit and put weight on it it drops down quite a bit. they normaly have a 3 gallon gas tank which is nice. My scooter goes 52mph stock. alot of stoarage space under the seat. i wish i hada better pic.

[shescoots150]

Everyone is giving FANTASIC advice.
I agree with Newc77 (Tom) If I had the extra $, I too would have went with S.F./ Free ahipping & handling, Free helmet and ect. I had planned on going with them too. Heck I think I cried for 2 days that I had to go another and more risky route. And he is also right about that book. It was the best 13 bucks spent. I memorized it. You can have mine if you want it. I will be more that glad to send it to you and maybe that can save you a few pennies.

[newc77]

Comparable and slightly lower prices at Scootersarecool.com. They are here in Ohio, a long way from Ca, but with the free shipping,,,?? (I still would check out S/F itself in Ca. first). SAC are a distributorship for Scooters/Factory.
There are also free downloads at the Motorcycle Safety Foundation site. Their booklet specifically for Scooter Owners is a great resource. More than just safety.
Tom