Buddy 50 showing its age?

[TVB]

Although I just barely managed to ride my Buddy at least a few miles every month over the winter, and I've had it out "for real" a few times already in the past week, it looks like I'm not going to get off to a smooth start this year.

I rode to the movie theater this noon (5 miles) without any problem, hitting 40mph pretty easily, etc. Started right up for the ride home, and the weather was over 40ºF and sunny so I took the scenic route home.

As I went over a bumpy patch, something registered on a subconscious level as "not right". I don't know if I heard something or felt something, but I quickly pulled over to make sure I didn't have a punctured tire or something. After seeing no problem, I tried to restart, but it wouldn't catch. The battery's fine, cranking strongly, but there's no sign of ignition.

It sounded the same as when I'd forgotten to reattach the cap on the spark plug, so I checked that. I had a spare plug, so I swapped it. Still no go. It has good gas: filled 25 miles ago, and no vacuum lock on the tank. I know where the air filter is, so I looked and it didn't seem remarkable. Another clue is that the 12V outlet appears to be dead. But other than that, all I know how to do is look around down below for anything that looks broken or loose... and I didn't see any. So I had to leave him by the side of the road. Unless anybody has any brilliant and easy things to try myself, on the first really nice day this year (tomorrow's forecast is lovely) instead of riding I'll be calling the shop for a pick-up.

[Fargo Rollin]

I actually had something very similar happen once, went over a major bump and all the sudden it started running very rough and once I shut down it wouldn't fire when I tried to start it. I discovered the terminal part (opposite the spark plug end) of the ignition coil had jarred loose. You can find it above the exhaust with a rubber housing covering the plug. Take a look there and make sure the connection is solid, that's my 2 cents

[OldGuy]

It does sound suspiciously like an ignition problem.

[TVB]

I actually had something very similar happen once, went over a major bump and all the sudden it started running very rough and once I shut down it wouldn't fire when I tried to start it. I discovered the terminal part (opposite the spark plug end) of the ignition coil had jarred loose. You can find it above the exhaust with a rubber housing covering the plug. Take a look there and make sure the connection is solid, that's my 2 cents

The guts of the Buddy 50 are laid out a little differently, so things are in different locations, but I think I checked what you're talking about (it was kinda hard to reach), and I couldn't find anything loose.

[TVB]

I ended up calling the shop to pick up the Buddy where I'd left him. The nearest motorbike shop was a few miles away, and the nearest Genuine dealer was nearly 10 miles away, so it was either that or try to fix it myself, and I'd exhausted my diagnostic abilities.

It turns out that it wasn't anything simple that I could've fixed, so the $50 pick-up charge was money appropriately spent. At the end of the summer I'd brought the bike in to fix engine noise, which required a top-end rebuild to repair. The scoot had run great for me since then, but apparently one of those replacement parts failed on me that afternoon. It wasn't the spark plug or anything electrical. The mechanic said it wasn't getting compression ... which I understand in principle, but the specific parts are all Greek to me, so I didn't press him for specifics I probably wouldn't understand. (I get annoyed when people ask me to explain computer-tech problems, then just stare blankly at me as I answer, so I figure it's the same for mechanics.)

The key problem was that Genuine offered no warranty on the failed part, even though it must have been defective to fail after just a few hundred miles. The shop didn't want to eat the cost of the part because it wasn't their fault. The business is an RV dealership that sells scooters on the side, which probably isn't bringing in lots of cash, so the mechanic doesn't have a lot of clout, but he managed to work out a deal on the repairs: I'd pay for parts, but the shop wouldn't bill me for his labor. Which is backwards of how it should've been, but I understand why they had to do it that way. At least it kept the bill down to something painless.

So I got the bike back today, just in time for the beautiful weather to turn rainy and for temperatures to drop for a few days. :/

Oh, and while I had the bike in the shop, I asked him to fix the pet-carrier-release cable, which has been finicky lately. That turned out to be pretty difficult, because the release had stopped working altogether (even using the secret method), so he thought he might have to destroy the seat to get it off. But he managed to get it open elsehow, and replaced the cable, so it worked again. Once, at the shop. I met a friend for lunch on the way home, and afterward, I couldn't open it.

My helmet is trapped under the seat. I have an old one I keep as a spare, but I was 5 miles from home. So I had to ride home bare-headed, which I have never done for more than a couple blocks. As it started to rain. At least I wear glasses, so I didn't have the wind and rain in my eyes, but some of those raindrops stung.

So things still aren't quite right. I'll have to go back to the shop for another try at fixing the seat release. But at least I've got the bike back!

[TVB]

And the troubles continue.

I went on a 5-day trip up north, where I rented a cabin in the woods, but decided the day before to take the car instead of the scooter. It would've been a nice 100-mile ride, but... I didn't feel like dealing with the packing limits of getting there by scooter, and being able to get back home in two hours regardless of weather finalized the decision.

When I got back and got ready to go grocery shopping... the scooter wouldn't start. Same basic symptoms as before. Same basic troubleshooting. He's got gas, I've given him another spark plug to try, I fully charged his battery... and he just won't fire up, via electric or kick starter.

The last time I was in the shop, the mechanic suggested that I might want to consider the unthinkable: trading him in for a new 125. The bike has almost 25K miles, over five+ years, and he thought that a four-stroke would be better suited to the amount of riding I do. I remained resistant to the idea. After all, I'd just had the engine fixed (again), so it should be good for a while, right? And I've always felt that a 2T 50cc was "enough".

But with a 1200-mile road trip coming up in 6 weeks, and a bike that I can't get started (again).... I'm considering it. Even without the long road trips (which I won't keep doing indefinitely), I still put at least 3000 miles on the scooter every year. So if 25K really is the healthy lifespan of a Buddy 50 engine (the point where you need to start pouring money into the engine along with the gas and oil) – and I do appear to be kinda alone in this territory – it might be worth trading up to a Buddy 125, which are known to reach the 40K range.

On the other hand, I recall seeing they had another red Buddy 50 on the floor of the showroom, which would be like resetting my odometer to 0.

[RoadRambler]

125. We still have a 50, too, and they are great for what they are -- but I really doubt you'd regret getting a 125. Flash has given you long and venerable service! But time for a new ride it seems.

[TVB]

Just when I start thinking I know what to do....

Tonight, 12 hours after trying unsuccessfully a few times to start the scoot before taking the cage to work, and 24 hours after trying extensively to start the scoot yesterday.... it starts on the first try.

After a short ride to pick up a sandwich at a fast-food place, it starts on the first try in the parking lot. Then a short ride to the lake where I casually eat the sandwich in the park, and it again starts on the first try. So maybe it just didn't like sitting for most of a week? Or it didn't like the coldish, rainy weather yesterday? I don't know what to think.

[Dooglas]

The last time I was in the shop, the mechanic suggested that I might want to consider the unthinkable: trading him in for a new 125. The bike has almost 25K miles, over five+ years, and he thought that a four-stroke would be better suited to the amount of riding I do. I remained resistant to the idea. After all, I'd just had the engine fixed (again), so it should be good for a while, right? And I've always felt that a 2T 50cc was "enough".

Your call of course - and if you get your baby running perhaps all is well. Having said that, I'll put in a little commercial message for the Buddy 125. It is a heck of a scooter at a reasonable price. Considering how you use a scooter, I'd think you would enjoy the 125.

[charlie55]

Just when I start thinking I know what to do....

Tonight, 12 hours after trying unsuccessfully a few times to start the scoot before taking the cage to work, and 24 hours after trying extensively to start the scoot yesterday.... it starts on the first try.

After a short ride to pick up a sandwich at a fast-food place, it starts on the first try in the parking lot. Then a short ride to the lake where I casually eat the sandwich in the park, and it again starts on the first try. So maybe it just didn't like sitting for most of a week? Or it didn't like the coldish, rainy weather yesterday? I don't know what to think.

Try eyeballing as many of the electrical connections as you can access. Sometimes even a light layer of corrosion can act like a wick in humid weather and mess with conductivity across a connection point. I had a '73 Plymouth Satellite that (like many Chrysler products of that period) had starting problems in rain or high humidity. It was always moisture getting into the then "state-of-the-art" electronic ignition. They used to sell (and maybe they still do) a spray for drying out spark plug wires, distributor caps, etc.

[PeteH]

Yep. It's called WD-40 (Water Dispersement)

From WikiPedia, So It Must Be True:

History

It was developed in 1953 by Dr. Norm Larsen,[1] founder of the Rocket Chemical Company, in San Diego, California. WD-40, abbreviated from the phrase "Water Displacement, 40th formula,"[2] was originally designed to repel water and prevent corrosion,[3] and later was found to have numerous household uses.

Larsen was attempting to create a formula to prevent corrosion in nuclear missiles, by displacing the standing water that causes it. He claims he arrived at a successful formula on his 40th attempt.[3] WD-40 is primarily composed of various hydrocarbons.

[skully93]

I wonder how much your dealer would be willing to give you for trade in. My guess is probably not a lot to be worth it.

Maybe just take it as a sign of "I need to get another JIC"

I'm very fond of my 150, and just hit 12k miles last night. Though I'm not putting the same amount of mileage on as I was, I definitely am wary of the life of a very small single cylinder. Hence why we have other scoots

[charlie55]

Yep. It's called WD-40 (Water Dispersement)

From WikiPedia, So It Must Be True:

History

It was developed in 1953 by Dr. Norm Larsen,[1] founder of the Rocket Chemical Company, in San Diego, California. WD-40, abbreviated from the phrase "Water Displacement, 40th formula,"[2] was originally designed to repel water and prevent corrosion,[3] and later was found to have numerous household uses.

Larsen was attempting to create a formula to prevent corrosion in nuclear missiles, by displacing the standing water that causes it. He claims he arrived at a successful formula on his 40th attempt.[3] WD-40 is primarily composed of various hydrocarbons.

True, and yeah, they still make the stuff I remember from way back when:


http://www.amazon.com/Gunk-M1306-Wire-D ... B00200CBD2

[TVB]

I wonder how much your dealer would be willing to give you for trade in. My guess is probably not a lot to be worth it.

He didn't say how much, but the mechanic did dangle the promise to take money off the price of a new one, to nudge me toward a sale. While I have some sentimental attachment to the scoot I have, it's not enough that I'd want to keep it if it isn't running reliably, so doing a trade-in has some appeal to me regardless of the amount.

[Wheelz]

Wow, TVB
We have been members of MB for about the same amount of time. (You a bit longer than me).
I would be sad, if Flash left your hands.
I've had two rattlers and now a vespa in that time.
You guys have made it, or damn near made it all the way around the state of Michigan.
I have admired and been baffled by your steadfast attitude that, "50ccs is enough" and watched you prove it with every "MI way" that you have done.
I say, while he's running ride him. When the time comes that it's too much of a hassle, let him go.
If ya wanna stay with a 50, then get a new 50. Ride it for 25k more miles and get another, rinse and repeat. A 125 might be a welcomed change however...

[TVB]

I say, while he's running ride him. When the time comes that it's too much of a hassle, let him go.

One of my concerns is that this point could be somewhere on South Boundary Road in the Porcupine Mountains, 75 miles from the nearest stoplight and 300 miles from the nearest Genuine dealer. Calling for a pick-up here in town has been a mild hassle by comparison, and my Genuine roadside assistance lapsed a long time ago. I'm no Cannonballer; pretty much all I know how to do if I have engine trouble on the road consists of refilling, kickstarting, and changing the spark plug. I've been able to do what I've done because my Buddy has given me no problems to solve (other than not going faster than 40mph). That's changed. I'm spooked.

I've said in the past that if I had to replace my Buddy 50, I'd buy... a Buddy 50. Other than a little nervousness about navigating the Porkies next month, I still feel a 50 is enough for me. But I'm questioning whether that's the best choice in terms of miles for my dollar. The mechanic at the shop says a four-stroke would be, and the limited sample of high-mileage Buddy 125s I know about seems to support that. But a sample of 1 Buddy 50 in this mileage range is not exactly statistically meaningful.

[rentonhighlander]

I don't know if it's been verified but I thought another member here "kookyscientist" had about `30K on a budy 50cc. I could be wrong.

[lovemysan]

I thought kooky scientist parted out that buddy 50. Seemed like it had 20k ish on it

[Dooglas]

Not trying to argue against/or for 2T scooters - but there is certainly plenty of experience by Forum members to support the observation that 4T engines generally have a longer life than 2T engines. It's just the nature of the beast. And it is also generally true that the 2T 50 engines are better performers than the 4T 50 engines - hence my suggestion that the 125 Buddy might be a good choice to replace the 50 if/when the time comes.

[TVB]

Yeah, whenever I've said "50cc is enough", there was an implicit "2T" in that statement. (Also an implicit "derestricted".) The fact that a 2T gives you more bang for the volume was one of the reasons I got a Buddy 50 instead of one of the 4T 50cc's out there (e.g. Honda, Yamaha).

I'm gonna talk to the sales person at my local dealer and see what kind of deal they're willing to make on a 125. Based on that, I'll make a decision.

[az_slynch]

Yeah, whenever I've said "50cc is enough", there was an implicit "2T" in that statement. (Also an implicit "derestricted".) The fact that a 2T gives you more bang for the volume was one of the reasons I got a Buddy 50 instead of one of the 4T 50cc's out there (e.g. Honda, Yamaha).

I'm gonna talk to the sales person at my local dealer and see what kind of deal they're willing to make on a 125. Based on that, I'll make a decision.

You've had good results with Flash so far and have covered a lot of ground together. I've seen plenty of old 50cc machines out there with less than 1K on the clock, so your mileage definitely puts you in a rare category here in the US.

That said, Flash has several bearings and seals which are probably worn down, reeds that don't seal right anymore. The parts aren't expensive, but the labor would be pricey.

Regardless of which direction you take at this juncture, you've set a high bar for 50cc 2T owners. I'm planning to finish refurbishing my '02 Zuma this fall. It has 900 miles on it, hardly worn in. With your accomplishment, I see plenty of miles in that bike and no reason why I shouldn't take it on a long ride instead of my P200 or my Yager. Thanks for the inspiration, man!

[GearsAndSuch]

I second the vote to check the electrical connections. You can get at it all very easily: battery: floor board. Plug: front access port on pet carrier, CDI: front panel, misc: under seat bucket.

A loose cable from the cable on or from the battery will give odd symptoms like what you describe: no power at the 12V socket, hickups on bumps and turns, and refusal to start.

[TVB]

I talked to a sales person, and the bottom line (with trade-in) would be a new old-stock 2009 Buddy 125 for just under $2000. The mechanic had previously said they could do a panel-swap to keep the same color – and customized emblem – (rather than the seafoam green or baby blue that they have at that price), so I'd have to hold them to that promise. While they're at it, they could swap my rear rack as well. They also have new-stock Buddy 125s of course, but also not in a color I like, and those would be $500 more.

I haven't decided. I'll need to soon if I'm going to do it before my next trip.

[Whimscootie]

I've read your story with interest and I feel your frustration. I gotta say we are kindred souls in our love for the little scoots.

49cc is all I've ridden since I got my first Ruckus in 2007 with the exception of a brief stint in 2012 on a Honda Elite 110.

That affair didn't last. I went back to a 49cc ride because it was more fun and I rode it anywhere I wanted to without limitation. Of course I am a back road rider of scoot and car, so maybe that's why it works fine for me.

Anyway, I always enjoyed the heck out of them yet always felt a sort of a pressure of ''needing'' a bigger scoot. Maybe because the push is''faster is better'' for safety, but I'm not sure that really holds and depends on where you ride, as you and I know.

I often feel safer ''riding it like a bike'' on the side rather than merging with traffic, but many would disagree with that mentality.

So notice that I now own 2, a 125 and a 49cc, and the one I ride the most is the 49cc because it still gives me the most pleasure.

I too am a ''stop and smell the roses rider'' and that's why I ride. See my post on my blog about ''slow riding''.

My point with my rambling is this: ride what suits you. If you can afford it, keep Flash for more local riding and get a second, perhaps more reliable and newer scoot, for your out of town rides. It could be a 125+ or another 49cc to keep Flash company!

Me? If I could keep Flash with all those miles of memory I would. You won't get much on trade and he is worth more to you. Go used for a 2nd scoot if the budget requires.

Just my 2 cents...

[Syd]

I talked to a sales person, and the bottom line (with trade-in) would be a new old-stock 2009 Buddy 125 for just under $2000. The mechanic had previously said they could do a panel-swap to keep the same color – and customized emblem – (rather than the seafoam green or baby blue that they have at that price), so I'd have to hold them to that promise. While they're at it, they could swap my rear rack as well. They also have new-stock Buddy 125s of course, but also not in a color I like, and those would be $500 more.

I haven't decided. I'll need to soon if I'm going to do it before my next trip.

I won't try to nudge you one way or the other (though to be honest, the BV350 is an awesome machine!). You've had a 50cc scoot in more places than I've had my larger, faster scoots, so you know what your doing. Good luck with your decision, TVB.

[TVB]

I think I'm gonna go for the trade-in. Keeping two similar scooters just doesn't make sense for me, and this seems like a pretty good point to make the switch to a 125cc with more longevity ahead of it.

Of course this means I need to get "endorsed" ASAP. The MSF course at the community college is fully booked for the schedulable future, so I'll have to do the written test at the Secretary of State's office, then the road test at a private testing service.

I called a couple places, and they'll let me take the test on a Buddy 125, but I don't have a licensed rider I can draft to "supervise" me getting it there. They won't let me take it on the Buddy 50 (before I trade it in) even though it's the same bike. Silly rules. Which may mean I'll have to "rent" a bike from the testing service. I found one that has an automatic motorcycle available ("for women"), so I wouldn't need to figure out shifting on the spot. But I'd rather take the test on a Buddy, since 1) it's super maneuverable, and 2) I have 24K miles of practice on it.

[Fargo Rollin]

Looking forward to a ride report once you move on up!

[Whimscootie]

Wow, they sure make licensing complicated in Michigan!

[az_slynch]

Wow, they sure make licensing complicated in Michigan!

Actually, it's not uncommon. In Arizona, a Buddy 50 is considered a motorcycle. The only vehicles that the state considers to be mopeds must meet the following criteria:

1) Most have a displacement of 50cc or less.
2) Must make no more than 1.5 horsepower.
3) Must not be able to exceed 25mph on 1% uphill grade.

While not spelled out in statute, the bike must have operable pedals capable of moving the machine under operator power demonstrated to an MVD official before they will issue a moped plate.

The perk is that you can operate a moped with a regular driver's license. You need at least a "J" endorsement (<125cc motorcycle) to operate a Buddy 50. Not sure if they still issue those, though. Probably need a full "M" endorsement now.

I wish we had Michigan's rules, I wouldn't need a full license to ride my 27mph, 87 pound '85 Honda Spree!

[TVB]

Wow, they sure make licensing complicated in Michigan!

Not really. It's basicly the same as for getting a regular auto-driver's license*: either pass the approved course, or take the written and road tests. It's just that the tests involve some catch-22 stuff for solo riders ... but someone who was going to be the first/only auto driver in their family would have the same hassles.

*Well, the old procedure for getting a driver's license... it's gotten a bit more complicated for teen drivers, with three levels, two classes, two tests, mileage and time requirements, etc. Which I approve of, because I remember what a lousy driver I was when I got my license just after my 16th birthday.

[Whimscootie]

In Ohio I got my MC learner's permit just by studying for and passing the written exam.

Then I had to ride a year with it and had the following restrictions: 1) could not ride at night; 2) had to wear a helmet (which I'd do anyway)

I lived in the sticks far, far away from any motorcycle safety classes (not required in Ohio), so I rode my 49cc scoot and practiced the maneuvers that would be required on the driving test at my local DMV for 12 months.

Then I went over and took the driving test and passed it. I was one of two people who showed up that day. Me on my Ruckus and another person on a big Harley.

That was it. I'm not saying it's the best thing, but I am "licensed" now for life to ride any size motorcycle that I so choose.

And that's how simple it is in Ohio.

I feel that I am a safe and aware rider and have read and watched the MSF videos, etc. I take no chances and have no notions of immortality!

I would consider doing a local course now that I have moved near a city, but they'd make me ride a motorcycle to do it and so why bother?

49cc in Ohio requires a license plate, insurance, and an M (or learner's) permit on the driver's license.

I stick to the back roads whenever possible. For me, having a 125cc over a 49cc is really not that big of a deal because I like to cruise 35-40mph average anyway.

I could sell my 125cc tomorrow and never miss it. I would, however, sorely miss the fun of my little 49cc.

Just sayin'.......

[TVB]

And that's how simple it is in Ohio.

And not substantially different from Michigan. If not for the catch-22 involved in riding my bike (unsupervised) to take the road test, and the fact that the test is outsourced to commercial agencies, it'd be just as straightforward.

[TVB]

It was a nice day for Flash's 12-mile "victory ride" to the dealership. He was just a few dozen yards short of 23,941 miles when I handed over the keys. Another few days and I would've reached 24K, but when it's time to let go, it's time to let go.

They'll swap the red panels, custom mirrors, and rear rack onto a baby-blue 2009 Buddy 125 with less than a mile on it, so when I pick him up in a couple days, it'll be like riding my old friend... with superspeed powers added.

Meanwhile, the old scooter will get reincarnated as a pretty blue Buddy 50, hopefully to be sold to a little old lady who'll ride him to church on Sundays. (Which isn't that far-fetched, since the dealership's primary business is selling Airstreams and such).

[Whimscootie]

Wow! So it's like your baby got a ''heart transplant''!

That is so neat!

Congrats on your new arrival!

Of course we'll want a ride report...

[Fargo Rollin]

Wow! So it's like your baby got a ''heart transplant''!

That is so neat!

More like a skin graft

[charlie55]

You gonna have your first speeding ticket laminated, framed, or bronzed?

Congratulations, best of luck, and ride safe.

[skully93]

Sad to see since you've been a champion of the 50cc world.

Genuine should give you a shout out!

[TVB]

Sad to see since you've been a champion of the 50cc world.

I still am. This switch is about getting an engine that'll last more miles, not one that'll go faster. For someone who isn't going to put nearly 5,000 miles a year on it, a 2T 50cc is still a great scooter.

I am disappointed that I didn't finish the tour of Michigan on the 50, because I probably could have, and that would've been so very cool to be able to say I'd done it. But saving the toughest and most remote part of the state for the point when the bike would be at its least reliable ... wasn't the right way to do that.

[TVB]

You gonna have your first speeding ticket laminated, framed, or bronzed?

Burned.

But realistically? Not likely. I can't remember the last legitimate* speeding ticket I received, even in my car.

*I was issued a speeding ticket about 20 years ago, but got it thrown out when I explained that the officer's version of the incident violated a couple laws of physics, and speculated that it was actually motivated by the fact that he'd just tailed me leaving a lesbian/gay pride festival.

[TVB]

Wow! So it's like your baby got a ''heart transplant''!

That is so neat!

More like a skin graft

Yeah, that's a little closer to what's happening... but it's a skin graft to make a bike with no miles look old. It'll be a new heart, new bones, new digestive tract, new muscles... surrounded by a bunch of cosmetic parts that have been around the block several thousand times.

[KrispyKreme]

Sad to see since you've been a champion of the 50cc world.

I still am. This switch is about getting an engine that'll last more miles, not one that'll go faster. For someone who isn't going to put nearly 5,000 miles a year on it, a 2T 50cc is still a great scooter.

I am disappointed that I didn't finish the tour of Michigan on the 50, because I probably could have, and that would've been so very cool to be able to say I'd done it. But saving the toughest and most remote part of the state for the point when the bike would be at its least reliable ... wasn't the right way to do that.

You are going to be urged to keep up with assholes that pass you. Then you are going to be urged to pass them. Embrace it. It's the Buddy way. 15k and still rolling.

[az_slynch]

You gonna have your first speeding ticket laminated, framed, or bronzed?

Congratulations, best of luck, and ride safe.

I wanted the photo ticket I picked up on my Riva 180 in a suitable framing size, considering what I paid for it. I know they had a better resolution image; I could barely make out my plate in the second shot even with a magnifying glass.

Todd, you did a helluva job with your 50. So, with 125cc of sound and fury at your command, the question is "After Michigan, what's next?"


1K!

[Whimscootie]

Sad to see since you've been a champion of the 50cc world.

I still am. This switch is about getting an engine that'll last more miles, not one that'll go faster. For someone who isn't going to put nearly 5,000 miles a year on it, a 2T 50cc is still a great scooter.

I am disappointed that I didn't finish the tour of Michigan on the 50, because I probably could have, and that would've been so very cool to be able to say I'd done it. But saving the toughest and most remote part of the state for the point when the bike would be at its least reliable ... wasn't the right way to do that.

You are going to be urged to keep up with assholes that pass you. Then you are going to be urged to pass them. Embrace it. It's the Buddy way. 15k and still rolling.

I dunno...I still ride my 125 like it's a 49...slow and steady, enjoying the sights. Let them pass!

[Wheelz]

"Flash will be that scooter..."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=p ... 8T5AA#t=43

[TVB]

I dunno...I still ride my 125 like it's a 49...slow and steady, enjoying the sights. Let them pass!

[TVB]

I picked up the new bike today. He looks a little different from the old one, so here's a photo.



The black Yamaha mirrors and rear rack transferred over without problem, as did most of the panels. The front fender from the 50 apparently doesn't fit, so they borrowed one from a black 125. They said I can either keep this or they'll order a red one and swap it. It doesn't look bad, but I'm leaning towards getting the red, because this piece is the only shiny black on the bike, so it looks ... off.

They also conscientiously removed the "moped" registration sticker, and snipped the "50" off my "Buddy 50" logos.

The center stand is not the same, and positioned differently. It's gonna take a little while before I'll be able to hit that with my foot (instead of my leg - ouch!) without looking. Running the chain thru that area for locking it up will also be a little different.

There's a definite change to the sound of the engine. Instead of buzzing, this thing growls. To be honest, it's louder than I expected from a 4T, and a little off-putting, but I suppose I'll get used to it. The mechanic was trying to sell me on upgrading to the Prima exhaust, saying how it sounds more bad-ass, but this already plenty bad-ass for my tastes. At least it wasn't as loud as the Harleys I pulled up behind at one point on the way home.

I didn't have time to do a lot of riding (~25 miles, half of that just to get home) but I managed to put him thru his paces. The first test was as soon as I left the dealership. It's located at the edge of town on a busy street with a 55mph speed limit, with a long up-hill as soon as you head back into the city. I've always bypassed this road (taking the back way out) when leaving there on my 50, which didn't have enough power to do it safely. But the new Flash handled it fine; the speedo read 55mph as I went up, and I probably could've done it faster if I'd tried. There are more hills between the dealer and my house, and he handled them very well. I took him on the East Beltline for a couple miles: a divided highway on the edge of town where traffic tends to go 65mph on the stretches between stop lights (another road I've carefully avoided). I opened it up and kept up with the slow lane (paying attention to the riding, not the speedo).

It might be my imagination, but the 125 doesn't feel as "flickable" as the 50. I know it is a little heavier, and that extra weight is down on the rear wheel, so that would make him more resistant to quick swerves.

I'm mostly just happy to have him "back" after a couple days without a scooter, but the extra power is going to come in handy from time to time, and I think this is going to be a good scoot to get me around for the next ... 50K miles?

[KrispyKreme]

That black front fender is the first thing I saw. Very cool. It makes your scoot unique. Congrats on the new ride. If you ever need to talk about the best oil to use...................

[Whimscootie]

Interesting you mention the loudness factor. It is the one thing I don't like on mine. Add the ''performance'' exhaust and there's goes ''the peaceful rides through the countryside'' experience. I find it to be wearing over a long ride.

[KrispyKreme]

Interesting you mention the loudness factor. It is the one thing I don't like on mine. Add the ''performance'' exhaust and there's goes ''the peaceful rides through the countryside'' experience. I find it to be wearing over a long ride.

Lots of PTW riders wear ear protection. There are good ones that let the lower decibel stuff in and block the other. Good earbuds can serve the same purpose.

[scootERIK]

I use ear protection any time I'm going more the 5 miles, especially if I will be going over 45 mph. Mainly for the wind noise. I can still hear enough noises. When I use ear plugs I feel way better at the end of the ride.

I use the cheap foamies for long rides, and the kind with the 3 rings(see below) if I am going to be stopping a lot, easier to get in and out.