Yamaha Scorpio SX-4W basic maintenance [Archive]

clint640

18th April 2011, 15:30

Excellent choice of learner bike! Find out (the manual should help) how to check: oil level, chain & sprocket condition, wheel bearings & brake pads. SAE90 Gear oil works good as chain lube, apply frequently.

If you are even slightly mechanically inclined get that service manual off Bonez & do the oil changes yourself. Ideally get someone skilled to supervise you the 1st couple of times.

Cheers
Clint

blue rider

19th April 2011, 21:29

Hello all,
also a newbie member and a newbie rider and having bonding issues with my wee Scorpio! The only other bike i have ever "handled" was a Ginny and I really would like to get along with the little blue scorpio.
I would appreciate any help and a manual (bought her of trade me, no manual provided - but I am thinking of buying one)
As english is a second language for me I am often not sure what the name of the parts are and what people are talking about - pointing to the objects helps - it really does does.:sunny: However I do like the word throttle:yes: it has a nice ring to it.
Any support would be great.

Oh and of course I am a learner :innocent:- so my knowledge of everything is quite limited, but the possibilities are endless

blue rider

20th April 2011, 17:54

have ordered my very own manual today, but it will take weeks (weeks!) to come from OZ.
But then I can go and read my manual. Yes!

Bonez

22nd April 2011, 19:51

Good on ya. As clint640's mentioned the Scorpios are great wee bikes to learn on.

blue rider

22nd April 2011, 22:24

so, my bike won't start, just a funny rrrrrrddd sound. Battery is dead, so I call a friend, offer dinner for help....and she accepts and brings her jump cables. I now have successfully done my first bit of 'work' on my bike, removed the fairing, found the battery and well we tried to jump start it. No luck. Mind its the original, about 3 years old, so now need a new battery. :angry:
but on the bright side, I took my bike apart and put it back together, and the
dinner and the company were a delight. :yes: but i won't be riding just yet.... :crybaby:

jrandom

25th April 2011, 08:48

Excellent choice of learner bike. I have one myself as a runabout. My favourite small motorcycle.

And it's good that you're looking to take care of it. But. The main advice you need to hear is:

For god's sake put some decent tyres on it. You will crash this winter if you leave those stock IRC things on. Those tyres are the reason that there are never any un-binned Scorpios on TradeMe.

Metzeler Lasertecs are the way to go. The Scorpio's rear wheel takes a Lasertec front fitted backwards. The Metzeler importers know about this. If your bike or tyre shop isn't sure, just tell them to ring up and order Lasertecs to fit a Scorpio. It should cost you under $400 for the set.

I can't stress highly enough that you really should do this ASAP for your own safety, not to mention your riding enjoyment.

I'll leave you with the MotoTT lines riders winding down on Lasertec-shod Scorpios after a hard day at the office:

VAgYMEE05QM

jrandom

25th April 2011, 08:50

so, my bike won't start, just a funny rrrrrrddd sound. Battery is dead, so I call a friend, offer dinner for help....and she accepts and brings her jump cables.

Scorpios all drain their batteries when sitting turned off. Disconnect one of the terminals if you're going to park it up for more than a few days.

Cloggy

25th April 2011, 09:18

Great little bikes. I bought mine new to do my BHS and learning on. More than three years on and I am still riding it and still learning. I ride mine everyday, rain, hail or shine over the Wainui hill and don't share the sentiment that the IRC tyres will cause you to crash this winter. They may not be the cutting edge of tyre refinement but they are just fine on the Scorpio. Got a Michelin on the front but it's not lasting nearly as well as the IRC's. Just stuck another IRC on the back as at least I know I get some reasonable mileage out of them. I wouldn't have done that if I felt these tyres were dangerous.
My Scorpio has been ultra reliable, hasn't missed a beat yet. The only wee problem I had was with a weeping front fork seal and that may have been my own wrong doing.
Keep an eye on that chrome, it's not the best quality and need a regular polish especially if you ride in any weather.
The main reason I have kept my Scorpio is that it so cheap to run and maintain. And it's ideally suited now to commute to work and back every day. Whatdamean petrol is really expensive, I hadn't noticed. :laugh:
I've got a PDF version of the workshop manual if anyone is interested. PM me your email addy if you want a copy.

jrandom

25th April 2011, 09:26

I ride mine everyday, rain, hail or shine over the Wainui hill and don't share the sentiment that the IRC tyres will cause you to crash this winter. They may not be the cutting edge of tyre refinement but they are just fine on the Scorpio.

The Wainui hill is a sparkling clean motorway. You won't crash there. You'll crash at an intersection when you try to brake over white paint.

The fact that you haven't crashed doesn't mean they're not dangerous. And of course you get good mileage from them. They're made of plastic (well, nylon) and don't actually wear out. I did almost 20,000km on a set with barely any visible wear. And I didn't crash, either, which is also not any sort of proof that they're safe.

Riding any particular distance within the very narrow performance envelope of those tyres, and being fortunate enough for the dice of fate not to roll you a situation that they can't handle, doesn't give you the authority to say that they're good enough. They're not.

How many second-hand Scorpios have you bought and restored for sale?

They need good tyres fitted, and you need to stop giving out dangerous advice based on the mistaken idea that it's important to save someone a hundred bucks or so.

BMWST?

25th April 2011, 10:20

The Wainui hill is a sparkling clean motorway. You won't crash there.

you must be joking,the wainui hill would be one of the most treacherous little roads in welly.It is a steep bumpy,badly cambered ,peice of road ,travelled by many cars some of which arent the most highly maintained,buses and trucks no doubt spilling deisel.Sparkling clean motor way it definetly is not.

jrandom

25th April 2011, 10:32

It is a steep bumpy,badly cambered ,peice of road ,travelled by many cars some of which arent the most highly maintained,buses and trucks no doubt spilling deisel.Sparkling clean motor way it definetly is not.

To bin on the Wainui hill, you'd have to either simply fall off because you were going too fast and ran yourself out of room, or get taken out by another vehicle. Traction isn't the issue. Even IRCs aren't going to let go if you're travelling within speed limit tolerances. It is basically a motorway. And, compared to many back roads and city intersections, it is sparkling clean.

In any case, the hill is a red herring. Travelling any particular road, particularly a four-lane one that's all of 2km long, while managing not to bin is not actually meaningful data.

Fact is, the stock Scorpio IRC tyres are dangerous. They don't give any warning of it when you're riding within their limitations. But do the wrong thing at the wrong time, most particularly in the wet, and you're history.

This isn't anything I have my ego invested in. I just know it to be true from experience and from observing Scorpios and their riders over the years. I really hope the OP takes me seriously, and I honestly boggle at why people are arguing against this.

I guess you'd feel a bit dumb if you ride around on tyres that someone else comes along and claims are shit, and you'd want to defend them. But, folks, those IRC tyres are shit. Worst case, they'll kill you when shit goes down and you try to brake and turn in the wet, when better tyres would've done no more than give you a chirp and a tight-sphincter moment. And you can never predict in advance how much of your bike's handling envelope you're going to want to call on without notice.

I honestly boggle at people who try to save a few bucks on tyres and their mileage. It's your life on the line, guys.

blue rider

25th April 2011, 10:39

Yes, I had to buy her, she was pretty, new, below 2000 km and cheap. What was not to like.
As for dropping the bike - already done that , round about to slow - plonk, very undignified. Result new back break. Ouch

currently i am taking lessons (classes?) at rider skill, which is awesome and much fun. next one on friday....sweet
Not to keen to go on my own just yet!

As for the tyres and the disconnecting of terminals :blink: that will be for tomorrow.

Bonez

25th April 2011, 10:41

Not everyone is Rossi wannabe JR. Your message is good. But there is a bit scare mongering going on there as well.

Ocean1

25th April 2011, 10:43

Traction isn't the issue.

You're wrong. That road is routinely awash with oil and deisel, it's one of the local roads most likely to see a traction related off.

Having said that, you're right, the standard Scorpio tyres are shite, particularly in the wet. It wouldn't matter so much if one had a good feel for the machine, but they're not appropriate on a novice bike.

jrandom

25th April 2011, 10:45

As for dropping the bike - already done that , round about to slow - plonk, very undignified. Result new back break. Ouch

Ouch.

Bet that wouldn't have happened on Lasertecs. Did you watch that video I posted above?

Not everyone is Rossi wannabe JR.

You are a very bad man for trolling. But I'll respond anyway, because it's important to be clear that being a 'Rossi wannabe' has nothing to do with putting good tyres on one's bike.

You really want to stay upright if anything unexpected happens and you have to use more braking or turning input than you planned to from one second to the next. The correct tyres are an absolute first necessity for this. Like I said above, I mean, we'll never know for sure, but I'd put good money on 'blue rider' having been able to avoid that bin if his [edit: sorry, her!] Scorpio had been wearing Lasertecs.

jrandom

25th April 2011, 10:49

You're wrong. That road is routinely awash with oil and deisel, it's one of the local roads most likely to see a traction related off.

OK. I'm no local. I concede the point. I must've been there on good days.

But, yes, that's a red herring.

Having said that, you're right, the standard Scorpio tyres are shite, particularly in the wet. It wouldn't matter so much if one had a good feel for the machine, but they're not appropriate on a novice bike.

Yes. Like I said, I did a whole bunch of miles on them. They work within their limits. Rode Auckland to Welly and back in one weekend in the middle of winter last year on a Scorpio with IRCs. Didn't fall off. But I'm pretty sure I would've if I'd tried to do the same seven years ago.

blue rider

25th April 2011, 10:53

yea watched it, and all the clips of japanese cops doing awesome stuff with cones on even bigger bikes. Thats going to be me. :soon:

Not sure if my bin was not due just to not having a clue what i was doing or the tyres. I could not tell ya, i put it down to information overload and she should not have been out on her own.
Anyways, I booked in with Phil for one on ones and nursed my bruise and had the bike towed to get fixed. learning moments.

Having just spend quite a bit of cash on gear, nice booties ( i so love shoes) and good waterproof jacket, plus the beak break, plus the classes.......cash is in short supply, but will look at the tyres.

Ocean1

25th April 2011, 10:54

But I'm pretty sure I would've if I'd tried to do the same seven years ago.

Knobs. The bestest tyre to learn on is a knobbie, huge and predictable feedback, they should be standard issue on all learner machines.

kiwifruit

25th April 2011, 11:11

Having just spend quite a bit of cash on gear, nice booties ( i so love shoes) and good waterproof jacket, plus the beak break, plus the classes.......cash is in short supply, but will look at the tyres.

I'll happily fund you into a new set of tyres. How does twenty a week at zero percent sound?

blue rider

25th April 2011, 11:17

I'll happily fund you into a new set of tyres. How does twenty a week at zero percent sound?

:confused: Your a banker?

jrandom

25th April 2011, 11:20

:confused: Your a banker?

No, just my flatmate and a man who's very concerned about motorcycling safety.

White trash

25th April 2011, 11:40

Did you watch that video I posted above?

Yeah, and it's an embarrasment to the two riders filmed. They each have far better skills than that wobbly, piece of shit display. Hardly a good choice of vid for what can be performed on a Scorpio.

jrandom

25th April 2011, 11:44

Yeah, and it's an embarrasment to the two riders filmed. They each have far better skills than that wobbly, piece of shit display.

I know. Imagine if they'd been on stock tyres! Straight off to hospital.

*drifting over from the lounge* "PAUL'S THE ONLY ONE THAT WAS WOBBLY, WAA"

Hardly a good choice of vid for what can be performed on a Scorpio.

It's all I had to hand, man, don't be hating on it. Gosh.

White trash

25th April 2011, 11:46

*drifting over from the lounge* "PAUL'S THE ONLY ONE THAT WAS WOBBLY, WAA"

Lol. That is was. Love the running over the traffic island just as the video ran out. Could have been a broken ankle right there.

jrandom

25th April 2011, 12:01

Love the running over the traffic island just as the video ran out. Could have been a broken ankle right there.

Saved by the Lasertecs!

blue rider

25th April 2011, 13:28

No, just my flatmate and a man who's very concerned about motorcycling safety.

who knows i might just find the cash somewhere.

but thanks for the offer:rockon:

blue rider

8th May 2011, 16:20

whohoo..what a couple of weeks.
I have got my battery issues sorted - (re-charged and re-filled with water), fitted it and went for a little ride with Steelphoenix who was kind enough to chaperone...me :baby:...such a good women.:cool:

Ahhhh finally a positive experience with the little blue bike, :love:

i really like working on the bike, good fun at repco too, polishes, and tools, and stuff.....oh my

Dlewy88

9th May 2011, 10:53

Hey,

Does anyone have any recomendations as to where to get a service/wof in Wellington central?

robo555

10th May 2011, 11:44

Cloggy

10th May 2011, 12:32

Hey,

Does anyone have any recomendations as to where to get a service/wof in Wellington central?
Not quite the central city but TSS Red Baron in Lower Hutt sell and service these machines. They do offer a free pick-up service. Give them a call.

blue rider

10th May 2011, 19:07

When the battery in my Scorpio goes flat, I just use the kick start.

kick start, jump start nothing worked.....i tried i'did - but to no avail. Recharge it was....:yes:

now I am thinking of getting rid of that back gear lever (?) - i find it irritating.. anyone else has done that on theirs?

Ocean1

10th May 2011, 19:42

anyone else has done that on theirs?

Yes. Just take the lever off and cut the rear part off with a hacksaw.

File the sharp edges off.

A dab of silver paint would be good.

blue rider

10th May 2011, 19:54

Yes. Just take the lever off and cut the rear part off with a hacksaw.

File the sharp edges off.

A dab of silver paint would be good.

Oh, i will need a
hacksaw.
silver paint
file

i can get these things at repco? Anything special?

Ocean1

10th May 2011, 20:19

Oh, i will need a
hacksaw.
silver paint
file

i can get these things at repco? Anything special?

And ideally a vice. And a bench to bolt it to. And bolts.

I like your enthusiasm, I really do, but unless you plan on making a habit of modifying stuff I suggest you take the lever to a local engineering shop. It’s a 5min job, they should charge you just a few dollars.

If you want to modify stuff then by all means, go hard.

blue rider

10th May 2011, 21:34

And ideally a vice. And a bench to bolt it to. And bolts.

I like your enthusiasm, I really do, but unless you plan on making a habit of modifying stuff I suggest you take the lever to a local engineering shop. It’s a 5min job, they should charge you just a few dollars.

If you want to modify stuff then by all means, go hard.

i was going to take the lever to my landlord, he has got awesome tools, and yes I would like to get into the modifying stuff, hence why i hang on the mechanics thread a lot - so much fun and interesting too.

i am really of the mind that if it serves no purpose it needs to go
and that thing needs to go soon.

and i was going to buy some more things at repco and other hardware stores, that thread about the tools that one needs i find enticing.

Ender EnZed

10th May 2011, 23:10

:Offtopic: But I'm curious. Scorpios have a back gear lever? Could someone elaborate on this, preferably with pics?

Cloggy

11th May 2011, 06:34

The End

12th May 2011, 22:22

It is basically an extension of of the gear lever so you can use the heel of your foot and push down to change up rather than use your toes to pull up the gear lever. Not quite sure why it's there unless you ride your bike in fancy business shoes and don't want to scuff up the toes.

And it's bloody annoying. Haha.

Just got some new riding boots recently and that back lever is a real hassle, always getting in the way. I also find the kick starter sticks out a bit and rubs against my right boot, guess I'll get used to it.

I'm going to service my Scorpio tomorrow, just done 1000km on it so figured I'd better check its all in shape.

Any tips for things to check that aren't stated in the manual? I'll just be doing a general service.

As for the issue about the tires, I personally haven't noticed any problems with the stock ones. I rode into town yesterday going down the steep end of Queen street in the POURING rain, didn't have any problems with traction and that road is littered with white lines and crack sealant.

Drogen Omen

26th May 2011, 12:09

cruza

26th May 2011, 12:27

hi, i am looking for after market Scorpio 225 parts...

TSS have told me they dont know of any aftermarket parts dealers in NZ...

need
- new chain and sprokets (F/R)
- new clutch and break levers.

HELP!!!!!!

Had trouble with aftermarket rear sprocket last year, gave up and brought geniune, front sprocket (xt225?)and chain were not a problem. importer may have some in stock now thru with so many bikes around now.
levers shouldn't be a problem .

cruza

26th May 2011, 12:31

Oh, i will need a
hacksaw.
silver paint
file

i can get these things at repco? Anything special?

Just hacksaw and a flat file to round off the rough edges, don't worry about the paint. makes a world of difference, was first thing I did on my partners bike as it was so annoying!!

Take gearchange lever off bike first and put in vice, makes job so much easier:yes:

Dlewy88

7th June 2011, 15:11

91 vs 95 for the scorpio? Any consenus of opinion on this.

Custom-R

20th July 2011, 23:37

91 vs 95 for the scorpio? Any consenus of opinion on this.

Hi, 91 is fine for this motor and will not damage it at all.The engines compression ratio is 9.5:1 and the stock ignition doesnt throw out much advance...so there will be no chances of detonation. Your better off spending the extra cash on regular oil changes..

Mackgyver

31st August 2011, 14:12

Scorpios all drain their batteries when sitting turned off. Disconnect one of the terminals if you're going to park it up for more than a few days.

Good to find some recent posts on the Scorpio. Your advice re the Metzeler Lasertecs sounds good, but I was wondering if you run them tubeless, or with an inner tube? The manual that came with my bike was very militant about only using the IRCs and only with an inner tube. I'm keen to get better rubber, but always get nerdy wobbles if I have to do something that the owner's manual says not to do.

Also, by the sounds you have worked on a few Scorpios. Besides better rubber, are there any other upgrades you recommend?

Dlewy88

8th September 2011, 19:17

Ive got the stock tyres on and I'm losing about 4PSI a week in my front tyre.
Slow leak?
Should I just bite the bullet and replace both with...
Any recomendations for tyres?
A good place in wellington to purchase from.

dogsnbikes

8th September 2011, 19:43

Good to find some recent posts on the Scorpio. Your advice re the Metzeler Lasertecs sounds good, but I was wondering if you run them tubeless, or with an inner tube? The manual that came with my bike was very militant about only using the IRCs and only with an inner tube. I'm keen to get better rubber, but always get nerdy wobbles if I have to do something that the owner's manual says not to do.

Also, by the sounds you have worked on a few Scorpios. Besides better rubber, are there any other upgrades you recommend?

Just remember although a manual is good its just a guideline.....as for upgrades just keep it too basics,tyres,brakepads,chain and sprockets and make sure your suspension is set up ride for you...if your not sure how send a SOS out on here and someone local too you may help otherwise next time you have time go into your local shop and ask for help

Ive got the stock tyres on and I'm losing about 4PSI a week in my front tyre.
Slow leak?
Should I just bite the bullet and replace both with...
Any recomendations for tyres?
A good place in wellington to purchase from.

You may need a new tube but cheak that your valve is in the stem properly..if you need tyres you have several options in Wgtn depending on where you are and suits your timetable...but try WGTN motorcycles,Motorad or Boyals in the city or TSS and motomart in the Hutt,Ask around as its your money and you want the best you can afford

bluerider

26th November 2012, 13:43

Hi Cloggy,

Would you mind sending me a copy of the workshop manual ? Would very much appreciate that :) I bought a second-hand bike, but the guy didn't have a manual and I am a newbie too

You can send it to bluefall7 at gmail.com.

Cheers

Great little bikes. I bought mine new to do my BHS and learning on. More than three years on and I am still riding it and still learning. I ride mine everyday, rain, hail or shine over the Wainui hill and don't share the sentiment that the IRC tyres will cause you to crash this winter. They may not be the cutting edge of tyre refinement but they are just fine on the Scorpio. Got a Michelin on the front but it's not lasting nearly as well as the IRC's. Just stuck another IRC on the back as at least I know I get some reasonable mileage out of them. I wouldn't have done that if I felt these tyres were dangerous.
My Scorpio has been ultra reliable, hasn't missed a beat yet. The only wee problem I had was with a weeping front fork seal and that may have been my own wrong doing.
Keep an eye on that chrome, it's not the best quality and need a regular polish especially if you ride in any weather.
The main reason I have kept my Scorpio is that it so cheap to run and maintain. And it's ideally suited now to commute to work and back every day. Whatdamean petrol is really expensive, I hadn't noticed. :laugh:
I've got a PDF version of the workshop manual if anyone is interested. PM me your email addy if you want a copy.

Tigadee

26th November 2012, 18:15

Scorpio Owner's Manual if you need it...

The End

13th December 2012, 20:16

Bit of a gravedig but I recently found the service manual and a parts catalogue. May come in handy to someone someday :niceone:

Couldn't upload the service manual as it was too big to attach to this post, so I have put it on Rapidshare. It is 300 pages long, although some of those are in Indonesian.

http://rapidshare.com/files/3885050131/Service_Manual_Yamaha_Scorpio_225.pdf

SMOKEU

14th December 2012, 19:51

Do Sport Demons fit these bikes? I used to have them on my old CBR250 and they were great, I'm thinking of buying a Scopio soon.

The End

15th December 2012, 12:47

Do Sport Demons fit these bikes? I used to have them on my old CBR250 and they were great, I'm thinking of buying a Scopio soon.

Scorpio is 90/90 front
100/90 rear

Looks like you could get a rear at least:

http://www.colemans-suzuki.co.nz/products/676-tyres_road/1424-pirelli_sport_demon.aspx

http://www.bits4bikes.co.nz/parts/yamaha/2039.aspx#Tyre - Battlax

ninja250

17th December 2012, 16:20

Scorpio is 90/90 front
100/90 rear

Looks like you could get a rear at least:

http://www.colemans-suzuki.co.nz/products/676-tyres_road/1424-pirelli_sport_demon.aspx

http://www.bits4bikes.co.nz/parts/yamaha/2039.aspx#Tyre - Battlax

I have just recently bought a 2007 model Scorpio as a run around and after owning bigger bikes for so long the little scorpio is such a blast to ride, really brings back the fun of riding a basic simple bike.

Problem is that a week into owing it got a puncture in the rear, so since it still has the stock IRC tyres on it, I want to change to better tyres, but I've been having a hard time finding matching front and rear tyres that fit.

I've called around most tyre shops in Auckland and called up Yamaha dealership and the only tyre option I've been given are either the original IRC, Pirelli City demon, or the Shinko.

I was wondering what tyres are people running on the scorpio and which ones work best?

Are the Shinko any good or are they just as bad as the IRC?

I used to have Pirelli City Demons on a GN250 and I found them to be good for highway riding and straight line stability but not so stable in the corners, so I was after a tyre with a more sport touring profile.

I've looked at the BT39 and the Metzeler lasertec but no one seems to stock a matching front and rear that would fit the scorpio, has anyone managed to find a matching front a rear in those models? And do they work with an inner tube?

Also I was going to replace the inner tube myself for now so that I could ride the bike for now but was wondering would I need to get the wheel balanced if I take the tyre off or if I replace the tyre? There doesn't seem to be any wheel weights on the rim at the moment so I'm wondering whether they have actually ever been balanced and whether it makes a significant difference on a small bike like the scorpio. I asked a few mechanics and seem to get mixed answers about the need to balance the wheels on smaller bikes, so would be goo to know if I its worth changing the tyre myself or better to get it done at the shop so that it can get balanced.

The End

17th December 2012, 20:51

I have just recently bought a 2007 model Scorpio as a run around and after owning bigger bikes for so long the little scorpio is such a blast to ride, really brings back the fun of riding a basic simple bike.

Problem is that a week into owing it got a puncture in the rear, so since it still has the stock IRC tyres on it, I want to change to better tyres, but I've been having a hard time finding matching front and rear tyres that fit.

Give this guy a PM, I know I've read stuff he's posted about the tyres before and seemed to have it sussed out.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/member.php/3866-jrandom

kiwifruit

17th December 2012, 21:44

476.5969 110/90-18H LASERTEC REAR
476.5901 90/90-18H LASERTEC FRONT TL TYRE
http://www.forbesanddavies.co.nz/products/71-tyres_metzeler_road/3092-lasertec_me33_and_me55_sport_t.aspx

I have just recently bought a 2007 model Scorpio ..... but I've been having a hard time finding matching front and rear tyres that fit.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Okpt1UHxKRM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/mw1ihEitncs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/OeGnhsCgX8E" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

ninja250

17th December 2012, 23:12

476.5969 110/90-18H LASERTEC REAR
476.5901 90/90-18H LASERTEC FRONT TL TYRE

Thanks for the sizes.

Is it fine going to the bigger rear? Just wondering cause I've got the spoked wheel version.

Also wanted to ask, have you ever had an issue with 5th gear slipping back into 4th if you don't slam it in really hard? I've had 5th slip back into 4th every now and then and have had to kick it in harder to make sure it stays in 5th, is this a common thing with scorpios?

kiwifruit

18th December 2012, 05:44

Thanks for the sizes.

Is it fine going to the bigger rear? Just wondering cause I've got the spoked wheel version.

Also wanted to ask, have you ever had an issue with 5th gear slipping back into 4th if you don't slam it in really hard? I've had 5th slip back into 4th every now and then and have had to kick it in harder to make sure it stays in 5th, is this a common thing with scorpios?

Yes, fine. Both the spoked and cast wheels are the same size.
You won't regret fitting the lasertecs, they work really well as you can see. Great in the wet too. Run them fairly low cos the bike is light. 24f, 26r if you're 80kgish.

I've had 6 or 7 Scorpios (I buy write offs, all crashed on stock nylon tyres) and have never had the gearbox slip.
Have you had the oil changed recently?

kiwifruit

18th December 2012, 05:46

http://www.ventura-bike.com/products/streetbar.aspx

VH10/S look best and work well
VH4/S work well

Both around $40 from your local bike shop.

kiwifruit

18th December 2012, 06:03

Gutting the stock pipe, rejetting the carb and opening up the airbox will improve performance by about 10-15%.

Take the muffler off and take it to someone who can weld. Cut the end off (cut existing weld) and pull everything out. Re weld end back on. Have them cut off and grind flat the heat shield mounts while they're at it. Sand the whole thing back to bare metal. Paint with black header paint (1800 deg stuff), about $15 a can from repco, one can will do a couple of pipes. Pull the header off and sand / paint if you can be bothered.

Remove left side plastic panel. Remove airbox door. Replace plastic. Or you can replace the whole airbix with a pod filter, both methods work well.

Have a mechanic rejet the carb for the airbox and exhaust changes.

I always plate off the emissions return system too.

Centre stand is easy to remove. It's quite heavy and close to the ground. Keep it and the pin that holds it in, for chain lubing / wheel removing etc.

These mods do not affect reliability.

The End

18th December 2012, 14:17

http://www.ventura-bike.com/products/streetbar.aspx

VH10/S look best and work well
VH4/S work well

Both around $40 from your local bike shop.

Speaking about the bars...I adjusted the position of the bars on the weekend. Lowered/bent them down more and I noticed a huge difference in handling. I have the stock tyres and still had chicken strips on the very edge of the tyre. After 15 minutes of riding around with the new bar position they were gone.

Definitely preferred the lower bar angle comfort wise, but the bike was leaning over so much more (seemed like it anyways) and the tyres were right on the edge of slipping out hence I changed the position back.

I've done 11,000 kms on the stock tyres and can honestly say I haven't had any 'slippery' issues with them prior to changing the bar position. Will be up for new rubber soon and will probably go with the lazertecs.

Overall I've enjoyed the bike a lot. The only issue I have had with it is the slow battery drain after a few days.

kiwifruit

18th December 2012, 15:31

The stock tyres (made of nylon, not rubber) won't give you any slip issues, until it's too late. They don't give feedback.

ninja250

18th December 2012, 16:46

Yes, fine. Both the spoked and cast wheels are the same size.

I spoke to a workshop and they said that they can currently have in stock a BT45 for the front and a BT39 rear. I know the BT are a good tyre bu wold it be bad fitting two different models? They only have slightly differing tread pattern but similar profile.

Also, they only had Chinese tubes in stock for that size at the moment, are these a bad idea? And if so, whats a good quality tube to run on them

I've had 6 or 7 Scorpios (I buy write offs, all crashed on stock nylon tyres) and have never had the gearbox slip.
Have you had the oil changed recently?

The bike has just recently had full B service at Red Baron prior to me purchasing it. Since its only a slip in 5th does that mean it must be a gearbox thing and not clutch?

kiwifruit

18th December 2012, 16:59

I spoke to a workshop and they said that they can currently have in stock a BT45 for the front and a BT39 rear. I know the BT are a good tyre bu wold it be bad fitting two different models? They only have slightly differing tread pattern but similar profile.

Also, they only had Chinese tubes in stock for that size at the moment, are these a bad idea? And if so, whats a good quality tube to run on them

The bike has just recently had full B service at Red Baron prior to me purchasing it. Since its only a slip in 5th does that mean it must be a gearbox thing and not clutch?

The workshop is trying to sell you shit they have in stock, because it's easier and or they make more money. Specify the lasertecs in the sizes above, they can have them in overnight. If not, go elsewhere.

I don't know anything about tubes.

Sounds like a gearbox issue but it's not anything i've ever run into before.

bluerider

30th December 2012, 13:49

Scorpio Owner's Manual if you need it...

Thank you Tigadee!

The End

1st January 2013, 18:15

Yes, fine. Both the spoked and cast wheels are the same size.
You won't regret fitting the lasertecs, they work really well as you can see. Great in the wet too. Run them fairly low cos the bike is light. 24f, 26r if you're 80kgish.

Wow I must be running my tyres high. I'm running 29f 30r and I'm 75kgs.

Recommendations on where to get lasertecs in Auckland? Preferably somewhere that can fit them too.

Cheers

FJRider

1st January 2013, 20:02

Speaking about the bars...I adjusted the position of the bars on the weekend. Lowered/bent them down more and I noticed a huge difference in handling. I have the stock tyres and still had chicken strips on the very edge of the tyre. After 15 minutes of riding around with the new bar position they were gone.

Then leave them in that position. If YOU feel more comfortable with the bike ... with them there.

Definitely preferred the lower bar angle comfort wise, but the bike was leaning over so much more (seemed like it anyways) and the tyres were right on the edge of slipping out hence I changed the position back.

Change them back for the reason given above.

I've done 11,000 kms on the stock tyres and can honestly say I haven't had any 'slippery' issues with them prior to changing the bar position. Will be up for new rubber soon and will probably go with the lazertecs.

Ability and experience of the rider plays a BIG part on what can be achieved on stock tyres. And both play a BIG part in how a bike is ridden.

Overall I've enjoyed the bike a lot. The only issue I have had with it is the slow battery drain after a few days.

An auto sparky could get that checked/fixed in a short time. Do it soon ... before it becomes a BIG issue.

And check tyre pressures when they are warm. Not when they are cold ... before you leave home. And keep checking them. The greatest ongoing expense of motorcycling is tyres. Look after them.

ktm84mxc

2nd January 2013, 07:34

Mike Old at Dury performance tires should be able to get what you want and they do a great job including fitting, always busy with bikes from old 60's Triumphs to modern sports bikes.

The End

3rd January 2013, 12:39

Getting the 90/90 H18 front and 110/90 H18 rear fitted as I type this. Will see how much smoother they are than stock very soon!

kiwifruit

3rd January 2013, 12:52

Wow I must be running my tyres high. I'm running 29f 30r and I'm 75kgs.

Recommendations on where to get lasertecs in Auckland? Preferably somewhere that can fit them too.

Cheers

You can get them from any bike shop. They won't have them in stock but they all come from the same place. Ring around for a few prices inc fitting.

Quoted pressures are for the lasertecs, not the stock "tyres".

kiwifruit

3rd January 2013, 12:57

Ability and experience of the rider plays a BIG part on what can be achieved on stock tyres. And both play a BIG part in how a bike is ridden.

No disrespect but you're full of shit on this occasion. As a general statement you're not far off.

The stock "tyres" are nylon. We're not talking about a set of OEM Bridgestones on a new GSXR here. These stock rim protectors are downright dangerous, rather than less than ideal. Yamaha NZ, or whoever is importing them, should never allow these bikes to be released into the wild like this.

The End

3rd January 2013, 20:42

Getting the 90/90 H18 front and 110/90 H18 rear fitted as I type this. Will see how much smoother they are than stock very soon!

I have to admit, I am thoroughly impressed with the lasertecs. They feel so much more planted in the corners and are so much more predictable than the stock IRC tyres. Wish I'd done this sooner! :brick:

The End

22nd January 2013, 12:08

Anyone else had issues with bulbs blowing?

I've done 12,500 KM and have been through

3x taillight bulbs
2x speedometer bulbs

Finding speedometer illuminating bulbs is a challenge, I've had to resort to using LED 'bulbs' which draw more voltage and run a little bit dimmer than the stock ones.

Shortie

27th January 2013, 06:05

Thanks for the sizes.

Is it fine going to the bigger rear? Just wondering cause I've got the spoked wheel version.

Also wanted to ask, have you ever had an issue with 5th gear slipping back into 4th if you don't slam it in really hard? I've had 5th slip back into 4th every now and then and have had to kick it in harder to make sure it stays in 5th, is this a common thing with scorpios?

I changed the oil to Spectro golden 4 10/40w and shifting problems like this stopped altogether. I don't know what my service agent put in originally but I was having a problem getting neutral, slipping from 5th to 4th and clutch plate stuck first thing in the morning - all resolved now due to my oil change.

No problems so far with the IRC tyres so far, just the odd wiggle on white paint in the rain.

Shortie