Yamaha Scorpio maintenance and servicing

[Tigadee]

Hi all, first time posting by newbie biker. Got a 2007 Yamaha Scorpio. Really keen to make sure this bike is well taken care of, but unsure what the regime is for after-rides care and prevention for the Scorpio, as well as where to go for a good mechanic and consumables.

1. What should I do after a ride? Is the Scorpio prone to rust (being a cheaper bike)? I've bought chrome polish which is supposed to protect the chrome parts. Also a plastic polish which also protects and fills in scratches.

2. What are your must-dos after a dry or wet ride? Wipe down? Lube chain?

3. Where do you get your consumables for the Scorpio? Owners, any tips for extra-standard items? Different weight oil that works better?

I've read, for example, that some find the Scorpio dips in the front a bit too much, so when you fill in the front yokes with 15 weight oil instead of the standard 10, the dipping is normalised.

4. Where should I go to get the Scorpio fixed? I am in Hillsborough and I think the closest dealer is Haldanes in Penrose. Are only dealers available for fixing bikes or are there mechanic workshops nearby?

5. Where do you get your insurance from? I'm 42 yrs old and a cautious rider. Wanting to pay as little as possible, rego $ has already shocked me. (I'm wanting to ride to do something new in my life - mid-life crisis, I guess! Ha! Ha! And bike's cheaper than a Ferrari!)

I guess I may be a bit anal (and totally clueless! LOL!) but this is my first bike and no small investment (to me), so I want to start off that way, and then relax if I am over-doing it. I am of course, going to practice my basic skills every chance I get before I actually let myself go on the road.

Thanks, all, for any sagely advice you may offer to a noob. :not:

[nathanwhite]

I'm no expert, but I always make sure mine is dry when I get back, lube the chain every 500km or so, clean it once a week or fortnight. Anything more then that I read the manual very throughly before trying (did a service on it the other week with no problems)

[Splineman]

Hi There...I have a Scorpio and find it an ideal bike to get to work on.
Generally I do the easy logical things. Dry it off if you can. Wax helps. Keep it reasonably clean.

Chain wise if it's dry and not too dusty every couple or 3 weeks a clean and lube.
In the rain lube after every ride. In dusty conditions a clean and lube weekly. Dust and dirt in the lube will wreck a chain and sprockets pretty quickly.

As for the fork dive I added a bit more fork oil, say 30/50ml and that helped a bit. But they are puny fork springs.

The other thing is that they use a mesh filter not a "proper" spin on one so Yamaha recommend more frequent oil changes than most bikes. 3 or 4K I think, but its only 1.3L per change.

I hope this helps...

Cheers.

[kiwifruit]

Make sure you replace the tyres with ones made of rubber. The originals are nylon. Do it asap.

[Tigadee]

I have a question for other Scorpio owners: The bike seems to always need the choke to start, even on warm days. Is that normal?

Thanks, Splineman and Kiwifruit. When you say add more fork oil, did you DIY? If yes, how? When you say frequent oil change, did you mean engine oil? How frequent is 'frequent'?

The previous owner had just changed to new tyres. In fact, they haven't been run in yet, so I guess I need to go easy on them for about 200 kms? Are they still alright for me to practice emergency braking?

[nzspokes]

Where in Auckland? Sounds like you need some SASS action.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/117274-South-Auckland-Street-Skills?highlight=sass

Great fun and you will learn heaps.

[jrandom]

Where in Auckland? Sounds like you need some SASS action.

http://www.motott.co.nz/

[jrandom]

The previous owner had just changed to new tyres.

What tyres?

If they're not Metzeler Lasertecs, throw them away and put Metzeler Lasertecs on.

[newhere]

Hi all, first time posting by newbie biker. Got a 2007 Yamaha Scorpio. Really keen to make sure this bike is well taken care of, but unsure what the regime is for after-rides care and prevention for the Scorpio, as well as where to go for a good mechanic and consumables.

1. What should I do after a ride? Is the Scorpio prone to rust (being a cheaper bike)? I've bought chrome polish which is supposed to protect the chrome parts. Also a plastic polish which also protects and fills in scratches.

2. What are your must-dos after a dry or wet ride? Wipe down? Lube chain?

3. Where do you get your consumables for the Scorpio? Owners, any tips for extra-standard items? Different weight oil that works better?

I've read, for example, that some find the Scorpio dips in the front a bit too much, so when you fill in the front yokes with 15 weight oil instead of the standard 10, the dipping is normalised.

4. Where should I go to get the Scorpio fixed? I am in Hillsborough and I think the closest dealer is Haldanes in Penrose. Are only dealers available for fixing bikes or are there mechanic workshops nearby?

5. Where do you get your insurance from? I'm 42 yrs old and a cautious rider. Wanting to pay as little as possible, rego $ has already shocked me. (I'm wanting to ride to do something new in my life - mid-life crisis, I guess! Ha! Ha! And bike's cheaper than a Ferrari!)

I guess I may be a bit anal (and totally clueless! LOL!) but this is my first bike and no small investment (to me), so I want to start off that way, and then relax if I am over-doing it. I am of course, going to practice my basic skills every chance I get before I actually let myself go on the road.

Thanks, all, for any sagely advice you may offer to a noob. :not:

Hi ya, sorry I can't answer all of your questions but, my scorpio was cheap to insure through state, $118 p/ann!!! I think thats cheap anyway. My scorpio seemed to develop rust even when dried / polished etc, but i used a kitchen steelo on it regularly and the rust just rubs away. Good luck :yes:

[The End]

I am in Hillsborough and I think the closest dealer is Haldanes in Penrose.


http://www.motott.co.nz/


MotoTT holds regular Motorcycle track days at the Taupo and Manfeild international race tracks.
:facepalm:


OP, I had my Scorpio serviced at Auckland Yamaha recently, pretty chill guys and decent price for a full service - http://www.aucklandyamaha.co.nz/

------------------

Insurance: http://www.kiwibike.co.nz/

Also, http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/136488-Learners-and-Newbie-Ride

[Tigadee]

Thanks, The End, I'll look them up...

Newhere - Is that for a learner or someone on Full? That's a great price, BTW...

How do you other Scorpio owners find starting the bike? I was told by previous owner that mine needs choke all the time to start with the electric.

The battery also goes flat if bike left alone for 2-3 weeks. Needs new battery?:blink:

[The End]

Thanks, The End, I'll look them up...

Newhere - Is that for a learner or someone on Full? That's a great price, BTW...

How do you other Scorpio owners find starting the bike? I was told by previous owner that mine needs choke all the time to start with the electric.

The battery also goes flat if bike left alone for 2-3 weeks. Needs new battery?:blink:

I start mine fine every morning, have only needed the choke about 3 times since I've had it and that was during the really cold snap we had recently.

Haven't noticed my battery go flat, then again the longest I've left it without use was about 9 days.

[Tigadee]

Thanks, The End. Looks like it maybe a new battery is needed, me thinks...

[newhere]

Thanks, The End, I'll look them up...

Newhere - Is that for a learner or someone on Full? That's a great price, BTW...

How do you other Scorpio owners find starting the bike? I was told by previous owner that mine needs choke all the time to start with the electric.

The battery also goes flat if bike left alone for 2-3 weeks. Needs new battery?:blink:

Hi yeah i was really happy with it :yes: - yes that was on my learners and for full comprehensive insurance - in saying that I have other insurance with them which might have made it a bit cheaper - they have a good online calculator:

http://www.state.co.nz/personal-insurance/motorbike-insurance/Pages/default.aspx

So re the starting issue - you should be sweet if you turn your petrol to off at the end of every ride - i did this and used the choke and cake walk start every time.

We worked out that if the petrol is left on then the bike sits for a bit then its a real pain to start. If that happens top up the tank with fresh petrol and it should be sweet (I have no idea why but it works!!!)

I left mine for weeks at a time and I never had to replace the battery??? :blink:

[Tigadee]

Awesome info and advice... I'll give that a go and see if it works. Hope so, then no need for a new battery and a happy [new] owner for this nice bike!

NZspokes - You'll surely see me there some day!

[Splineman]

[QUOTE=Tigadee;1130167841]I have a question for other Scorpio owners: The bike seems to always need the choke to start, even on warm days. Is that normal?

Thanks, Splineman and Kiwifruit. When you say add more fork oil, did you DIY? If yes, how? When you say frequent oil change, did you mean engine oil? How frequent is 'frequent'?


Hi Tigadee, yes my Scorpio needs choke to start. Even on warmish days...no problem there.

Sorry but I didn't intend to confuse you. Yes I added a small amount of fork oil DIY (30ml in each leg) and that did firm the forks up a bit.
Raised the bike, unscrewed the fork caps and poured it in. Get some advise if it's a job you are unsure about though.
Yes I meant engine oil. The owners manual recommends changing every 4k and cleaning the element every 8k. I was simply highlighting that modern streetbikes often have longer drain intervals and that the filter on the Scorpio is only a screen (bigger holes in it).
Air filter element need washing and oiling as well every 4k.
Follow the owners manual for servicing intervals as there are a lot of things to look at and it keeps everything in order. I personally enjoy mechanical work and maintenance and so do these tasks myself but I follow the schedule in the manual.
Get advise and don't do anything you are unsure about.

Many have commented on cheap tyres and I would agree that while they are fine in the dry, in the wet they aren't the best and stay off painted road markings. Personally I am using my stock tyres on the Scorpio although having said that I do have Metzeler Marathons on my Sportster and they are a world better than cheap rubber, esp in the wet.

Cheers

[Tigadee]

Thanks, Splineman. I'll be sure to turn off the petrol tap too, and check the reserve tap as well. I managed to find the service manual in English and will do what I can - though I am not a handyman... Got my chain lube, tyre pressure guage pen and motor oil today.

BTW, do you guys use 10W-30 or 20W-40 oil for your Scorpios?

Besides, my priority right now is good weather for me to do my basic skills practicing! I got home today and wouldn't you know it, it started rainng after such a brilliant afternoon! Bummer!:angry:

[The End]

Here's a manual you might find useful:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/47458372/yamaha-scorpio

I'll check in the morning but I'm pretty sure I use 10W-30.

Quite a bit of information in this thread as well
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/136887-Yamaha-Scorpio-SX-4W-basic-maintenance

[Tigadee]

Good info, esp. on the oil to use and which petrol (so 91 good enough and 95 not much advantage)...

[nathanwhite]

BTW, do you guys use 10W-30 or 20W-40 oil for your Scorpios?
:

I use 10W-40.
According to the manual it has the biggest range of operating temperatures

[Tigadee]

Awesome, that's what I just bought...

[Tigadee]

What tyres? If they're not Metzeler Lasertecs, throw them away and put Metzeler Lasertecs on.

BTW, is it possible to put wider tyres on? Like how you can go from factory rims on a car to 17" or 18" alloys?

[Tigadee]

Also, are fatter/thicker throttle grips better or thin ones?

I've got big hands and seem to find it difficult controlling the throttle subtly. Would making the grip thicker help with finer control?

Is there any way to make the throttle stiffer to twist? This is very important and I don't dare to go on the road unless I feel confident I can suffciently control the throttle...

[nathanwhite]

Also, are fatter/thicker throttle grips better or thin ones?

I've got big hands and seem to find it difficult controlling the throttle subtly. Would making the grip thicker help with finer control?

Is there any way to make the throttle stiffer to twist? This is very important and I don't dare to go on the road unless I feel confident I can suffciently control the throttle...

Give it some time.

I spend about 20 hours in a carpark when I first got mine going over starting and stopping to make sure I could get the throttle and clutch action right. Even then it still wasn't quite enough and I was stalling all over the place :facepalm:

[Tigadee]

OIC... Thanks, I'll keep practicing.:scooter:

[allycatz]

You two have made me feel ever so much better, only spent an hour on my scorpio so far and stalled a few times, thought it was just me lol!

[Tigadee]

Allycatz - Only a few times?! I must have done it a couple dozen times or more! :Oops: Poor Scorpio...

[Splineman]

Give it some time.

I spend about 20 hours in a carpark when I first got mine going over starting and stopping to make sure I could get the throttle and clutch action right. Even then it still wasn't quite enough and I was stalling all over the place :facepalm:

A1 on this....practice practice practice....
Another option, although reasonably expensive is a course. I have done one put on by these people at Manfield.
http://www.prorider.co.nz/
Excellent course and one on one for a part of the day.

Cheers

[nathanwhite]

You two have made me feel ever so much better, only spent an hour on my scorpio so far and stalled a few times, thought it was just me lol!


Allycatz - Only a few times?! I must have done it a couple dozen times or more! :Oops: Poor Scorpio...

+1. And that was in the first half hour!

[newhere]

I was taught a pretty cool thing by my instructor about rev's/clutch so when I was learning on a gn250 i had to have the revs at 2500 before starting to let the clutch out to prevent stalling... with my scorpio I found I had to have the rev's about 1500 before letting the clutch out to prevent stalling... it worked for me so it might be worth a try :yes: but it just takes a bit of practice so have a good time and don't give yourself a hard time :woohoo:

[Tigadee]

After another session this evening, I found I was getting better, maybe stalled only a handful times.

Have got the clutch 'friction zoned' better now, before I couldn't seem to feel where it is but I'm getting there with this exercise: Just sit still on 1st gear and then slowly letting the clutch go till I find the resistance. Did that about 10 times till I got the hang of it. *whew*

I'm also getting better at turns and now doing figure 8s & U-turns, and also practicing my emergency braking. I hope to tackle a slalom soon - I just barely made it through the one in my BHS after repeated tries [I was getting badly shaken up by that], so I really would like to master that.

Next after is thinking ahead, when to up-shift and down-shift, and getting into the habit of using the turn signal and switching it off after turning.

I give myself another week and then I will tackle the neighbourhood roads...:yes: The week after that and I may start commuting to work. Or is that too soon? Whadaya guys think?

[newhere]

After another session this evening, I found I was getting better, maybe stalled only a handful times.

Have got the clutch 'friction zoned' better now, before I couldn't seem to feel where it is but I'm getting there with this exercise: Just sit still on 1st gear and then slowly letting the clutch go till I find the resistance. Did that about 10 times till I got the hang of it. *whew*

I'm also getting better at turns and now doing figure 8s & U-turns, and also practicing my emergency braking. I hope to tackle a slalom soon - I just barely made it through the one in my BHS after repeated tries [I was getting badly shaken up by that], so I really would like to master that.

Next after is thinking ahead, when to up-shift and down-shift, and getting into the habit of using the turn signal and switching it off after turning.

I give myself another week and then I will tackle the neighbourhood roads...:yes: The week after that and I may start commuting to work. Or is that too soon? Whadaya guys think?



I think, when you are bored practicing your drills then it is time to find a quiet street and go for it :yes: Or if at all possible get someone you know and/or trust to ride you and your bike to some fairly quiet streets and start riding around there.

I was a very timid beginner and I have the utmost respect and gratefulness to Grant` for doing that for me as it was a fantastic confidence builder and I might still be going around car parks if it wasn't for that help from him!!!!! :scooter:

Once your comfortable enough with quiet streets I would highly recommend finding someone to follow around until your happy to go it alone - again a massive thanks to Grant` for doing that for me - highly recommend finding someone prepared to do that as it as it was a confidence builder for me and I reckon it will work for you to.

I bet there are plenty of riders in your area that will take you under their wing - so to speak - and will be happy to have you follow them around until your ready to go it alone. All the best of luck :woohoo:

It would be great to see you on Mom and Maha's group rides because they are a great way to get confidence in a group situation and to meet a bunch of new riders also. :yes:

[The End]

Great to hear you are taking it easy, the worst thing people do when starting to ride is feel over confident - that is when accidents happen!

Like a wise person once said: Practice makes perfect.

[allycatz]

I was taught a pretty cool thing by my instructor about rev's/clutch so when I was learning on a gn250 i had to have the revs at 2500 before starting to let the clutch out to prevent stalling... with my scorpio I found I had to have the rev's about 1500 before letting the clutch out to prevent stalling... it worked for me so it might be worth a try :yes: but it just takes a bit of practice so have a good time and don't give yourself a hard time :woohoo:

Funny you should say that, the bike was idling faster when I first started it up and we adjusted it down a little. Had actually suggested to my partner maybe I should try it back how it was. Having said that I was on grass and it doesnt take off the same as on tarmac

I found that I stalled less once I got up a gear too...the engine was smoother in second and the throttle less jerky...hoping to get to third gear this weekend lol!

[newhere]

Funny you should say that, the bike was idling faster when I first started it up and we adjusted it down a little. Had actually suggested to my partner maybe I should try it back how it was. Having said that I was on grass and it doesnt take off the same as on tarmac

I found that I stalled less once I got up a gear too...the engine was smoother in second and the throttle less jerky...hoping to get to third gear this weekend lol!

Might be worth a try :yes:

[nzspokes]

After another session this evening, I found I was getting better, maybe stalled only a handful times.

Have got the clutch 'friction zoned' better now, before I couldn't seem to feel where it is but I'm getting there with this exercise: Just sit still on 1st gear and then slowly letting the clutch go till I find the resistance. Did that about 10 times till I got the hang of it. *whew*

I'm also getting better at turns and now doing figure 8s & U-turns, and also practicing my emergency braking. I hope to tackle a slalom soon - I just barely made it through the one in my BHS after repeated tries [I was getting badly shaken up by that], so I really would like to master that.

Next after is thinking ahead, when to up-shift and down-shift, and getting into the habit of using the turn signal and switching it off after turning.

I give myself another week and then I will tackle the neighbourhood roads...:yes: The week after that and I may start commuting to work. Or is that too soon? Whadaya guys think?

Where do you live? i would be happy to come out for a ride. Im L plate to.

One idea is to do the commute to work on the weekend so you get the feel for it.

[Tigadee]

Excellent ideas, all of them. I will go for a test run next weekend to work and see how that goes. At least I'm familiar with the route!

I am practicing on a quiet side-street next to my home, which ends at a car park for a small park, so it's been great because I experience slopes as well. Would love to hook up with some fellow bikers soon, plan on seeing me there...

I'm taking baby steps and going slow, got a family to think about and am in no rush to be out on the road yet. This motorbiking is just for something new in my life [mid-life crisis, I joke to my wife] and also exploring its potential as an affordable commuting tool.

[newhere]

Excellent ideas, all of them. I will go for a test run next weekend to work and see how that goes. At least I'm familiar with the route!

I am practicing on a quiet side-street next to my home, which ends at a car park for a small park, so it's been great because I experience slopes as well. Would love to hook up with some fellow bikers soon, plan on seeing me there...

I'm taking baby steps and going slow, got a family to think about and am in no rush to be out on the road yet. This motorbiking is just for something new in my life [mid-life crisis, I joke to my wife] and also exploring its potential as an affordable commuting tool.

Well that sounds ideal!!! And baby steps is the way to go :yes:

It is a pretty cheap way to get about, but its much more fun than a car, and maybe one day your wife might like to jump on the back - riding is a fun couple thing to do in my experience :woohoo:

[allycatz]

...

I'm taking baby steps and going slow, got a family to think about and am in no rush to be out on the road yet. This motorbiking is just for something new in my life [mid-life crisis, I joke to my wife] and also exploring its potential as an affordable commuting tool.



Well ive just bought bike at age 51, dunno if its too late in life but I bought it off a 67 year old who said "It was too much bike for her":blink:

[nzspokes]

Well ive just bought bike at age 51, dunno if its too late in life but I bought it off a 67 year old who said "It was too much bike for her":blink:

I started riding at 43. :facepalm:

[Tigadee]

Heh! Heh! I've heard it said nowadays that age 40 is the new 30, so we're not that old... and never too old to learn something new, aye? :yes:

Questions: Is it possible to overlube the chain? i.e. Is doing it after every ride too much? Can there be negative consequences?

Can one change the rim and width of a bike's tyres (like car rims)? Or does one change the tyre only? Is there any variation to tyre width/height within the same size?

[nathanwhite]

I give myself another week and then I will tackle the neighbourhood roads...:yes: The week after that and I may start commuting to work. Or is that too soon? Whadaya guys think?

I spend about half an hour practicing the clutch and throttle stuff before blatting around some side roads for 10min as a break.


It would be great to see you on Mom and Maha's group rides because they are a great way to get confidence in a group situation and to meet a bunch of new riders also. :yes:

My first group ride was with them. And that was when I had been riding for all of three weeks.


the worst thing people do when starting to ride is feel over confident - that is when accidents happen!
.
Been there, done that. :facepalm:




Questions: Is it possible to overlube the chain? i.e. Is doing it after every ride too much? Can there be negative consequences?

Can one change the rim and width of a bike's tyres (like car rims)? Or does one change the tyre only? Is there any variation to tyre width/height within the same size?

I don't know if there is any negative consequences, but you only need to do it every 500km or so. So yes every ride would be too much (Unless you go for 500km rides:shutup:)

[Badjelly]

Heh! Heh! I've heard it said nowadays that age 40 is the new 30, so we're not that old... and never too old to learn something new, aye? :yes:

Questions: Is it possible to overlube the chain? i.e. Is doing it after every ride too much? Can there be negative consequences?

Can one change the rim and width of a bike's tyres (like car rims)? Or does one change the tyre only? Is there any variation to tyre width/height within the same size?

OK, so what's 56 then?

The only negative consequence I see of overlubing the chain is big gobs of thick black oil accumulating near the front sprocket, then falling onto the garage floor and being tracked into the house. This, I think you'll agree, is quite a negative consequence.

You probably could change the rims, but why would you? Stick to standard rims and standard tyre sizes. Tyre selection is a bit limited on the 18" wheels, but I am very happy with the Shinko rear that was recently fitted by TSS in Lower Hutt and will try to get a matching one when the front wears out.

Finaly, for protection of finish, I recommend Inox Lanox (an oily spray like CRC, but contains lanolin and sticks better).

[baffa]

Quick tip for clutch control. Try taking off without using the throttle at all.
Trust me it can be done! that will give you a good understanding of clutch control.
Also getting the hang of hill starts is a good idea. They arent difficult, you just need to have your foot on the brake, and take off as you would normally but with a little less clutch and a bit more gas.

Oh and teaching yourself to stop quickly is never a bad idea either. I've had to haul anchors a couple of times, and the bike will stop quicker than you realise.

[Tigadee]

The only negative consequence I see of overlubing the chain is big gobs of thick black oil accumulating near the front sprocket, then falling onto the garage floor and being tracked into the house. This, I think you'll agree, is quite a negative consequence.


So yes every ride would be too much (Unless you go for 500km rides:shutup:)

LOL! OK, I'll go easy on the lube then...


...for protection of finish, I recommend Inox Lanox (an oily spray like CRC, but contains lanolin and sticks better).

I'm not familiar with that product. Is it available in places like Repco or just anywhere like Bunnings?

Baffa - Will give that a go, thanks. And I will definitely continuously practice my emergency braking, among other things, you can count on me!:yes:

[blue rider]

Where do you live? i would be happy to come out for a ride. Im L plate to.

One idea is to do the commute to work on the weekend so you get the feel for it.

can only recommend what Mr Spokes said, i went on my commute trial run on a couple of weekends, to make sure I knew where I was going, and more than one way. Rush hour can be stressfull in the beginning.

you will see, soon you will find the loooong way home!:yes:

good place to practice, is One Tree Hill, nice roads, ups n' downs etc., Unitech Car park on Carrington Road is good aswell ....and as said by others get a mate to ride with you.....this helped me a lot in the beginning, and still does!

[Tigadee]

can only recommend what Mr Spokes said, i went on my commute trial run on a couple of weekends, to make sure I knew where I was going, and more than one way. Rush hour can be stressfull in the beginning.

Planning on that, thanks for the advice...


you will see, soon you will find the loooong way home!:yes:

LOL! Looking forward to that!


good place to practice, is One Tree Hill, nice roads, ups n' downs etc.,.......

I'm not venturing that far yet but that's a good tip, I'll put that into my calendar.

I've done three short circuits around my neighbourhood now; doing figure 8s pretty good and braking too. Almost got turning with indicator and down- or up-shifting pretty smooth too. At this stage, 50kph seems very fast to me! LOL!

Later on, I'll pop on to the motorway for a short run between Hillsborough Rd and Dominion Rd. Next weekend it'll be the test run between home and work [mostly motorway travel].

[Tigadee]

I've just come back from a short 1st run on the motorway and man! I was scared! :shit:

I only got up to 80kph but the Scorpio kinda felt like it was going to lift off the tarmac!:doobey: Could a screen help? I was wearing an open face helmet with visor. Would I feel less intimidated if I wore my full-face?

Could the Scorpio be too small and too light a bike for me? I'm 6' 1" and 110kgs... The Scorpio is 135kgs.

[The Pastor]

if your worried about rust, a weekly wash will help that. you can wipe it down with an oiley rag - but any rain will wash this off. The best bet is to park it in a garage.

Pay alot of attention to your forks, rust on them can fail your warrent, and it can cost a lot to repair.

[Tigadee]

Will do, thanks.

[varminter]

I've just come back from a short 1st run on the motorway and man! I was scared! :shit:

I only got up to 80kph but the Scorpio kinda felt like it was going to lift off the tarmac!:doobey: Could a screen help?

Could the Scorpio be too small and too light a bike for me? I'm 6' 1" and 110kgs... The Scorpio is 135kgs.

I remember doing 100K's on the GN I had (must have been downhill), looked down to make sure the wheels were still on the road. A bigger bike would help but I'd wait untill you're up to it. Learn the basics on the one you have, at least you'll be able to pick it up by yourself, my one need's the wife also, unless I do 'the hulk' thing. Wouldn't use a screen, you'd have even more trouble getting up to speed.

[Bonez]

I've just come back from a short 1st run on the motorway and man! I was scared! :shit:

I only got up to 80kph but the Scorpio kinda felt like it was going to lift off the tarmac!:doobey: Could a screen help? I was wearing an open face helmet with visor. Would I feel less intimidated if I wore my full-face?

Could the Scorpio be too small and too light a bike for me? I'm 6' 1" and 110kgs... The Scorpio is 135kgs.Does it still have the higher original bars? You may find a 1.5" or there abouts rise bar more comfortable and bring weight forward a bit more. You're probably sitting quite upright at the moment. A fullface helmet will offer better protection and screen will take some pressure of your chest. They're good wee bikes.

A week after getting my first bike, a Honda CJ250, I rode from Blenhiem via the Wairapa, Hawkes Bay to Auckland. Mind you there was less traffic then and I was 18. Little steps and you'll get there but sometimes one needs to gab the bull by the horns as it were ;). Good luck.

As for cleaning i just use a soft brush, soapy water, hose, Neapol http://www.cleanaiddirect.co.nz/site/maxcleaning/images/items/1231%20copy.jpg. deisol/kerosene or WD40 to give the engine/frame/chassis chrome some wet weather protection.

[Tigadee]

Varminter - I was thinking to swap with a cruiser type bike like the Kawasaki Eliminator here (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=412622401) which looks like it may be heavier [and perhaps bigger?]. Or it could be just first time motorway jitters...?

I definitely appreciate it's light weight for my learning period now, it's been great. Just filled the tank up about 2/3rds to full and cost me 9.55 dollars. Had to wipe that big grin off my face! LOL!

Bonez - I'm not sure about the bars, probably original. So raising the bars will help with posture for better aerodynamics? Yeah, I will switch to the full-face for motorway travel. I'll still use the open-face w/ visor for practicing in a carpark and slower speeds - it's so much cooler and because I wear glasses.

Thanks for the cleaning tips.

[newhere]

I've just come back from a short 1st run on the motorway and man! I was scared! :shit:

I only got up to 80kph but the Scorpio kinda felt like it was going to lift off the tarmac!:doobey: Could a screen help? I was wearing an open face helmet with visor. Would I feel less intimidated if I wore my full-face?

Could the Scorpio be too small and too light a bike for me? I'm 6' 1" and 110kgs... The Scorpio is 135kgs.


Hey - I think you are really brave getting on the motorway this early in your riding, I had been riding for a year before I did and I was freaked out also.

I would definitely recommend a full face helmet for safety but I don't know if it will help with intimidation - I think it just takes practice, practice and more practice.

Im only 5.3" and 50kg and I also found I got blown around on my scorpio but you will used to it and figure out to compensate for it, leaning forward is helpful :scooter: I think it maybe the way the bike is designed as I don't have that problem on my gladius :blink:

[Bonez]

Bonez - I'm not sure about the bars, probably original. So raising the bars will help with posture for better aerodynamics? Yeah, I will switch to the full-face for motorway travel. I'll still use the open-face w/ visor for practicing in a carpark and slower speeds - it's so much cooler and because I wear glasses.

Thanks for the cleaning tips.Slightly lower bars would give you a forward leaning position. Higher bars will mean you are sitting more upright. A slight fwd lean is better for your spine as well. When I say 1.5'' rise I mean a 1.5 rise from the bar mounts not an extra 1.5" rise on the stock items.

[Captain_Salty]

i reckon by your third time on the motorway you'll be loving it :niceone:

[blue rider]

I've just come back from a short 1st run on the motorway and man! I was scared! :shit:

I only got up to 80kph but the Scorpio kinda felt like it was going to lift off the tarmac!:doobey: Could a screen help? I was wearing an open face helmet with visor. Would I feel less intimidated if I wore my full-face?



see this is way i call mine the transformer, at a 100+ it'll pull out wings and be a plane. and a full face helmet will keep you pretty but not make you feel less intimidated.

[nzspokes]

I've just come back from a short 1st run on the motorway and man! I was scared! :shit:

I only got up to 80kph but the Scorpio kinda felt like it was going to lift off the tarmac!:doobey: Could a screen help? I was wearing an open face helmet with visor. Would I feel less intimidated if I wore my full-face?

Could the Scorpio be too small and too light a bike for me? I'm 6' 1" and 110kgs... The Scorpio is 135kgs.

Mate, dont worry. I went through the same thing a few months ago. First time back from the motorway I was ready to sell my bike. Now its easy. Remember that the motorway is safer because everybody is going the same way!!

Look I live close to you by the sounds, really happy to come out for a ride with you. We could probably talk Bluerider in to coming out as well.

My first m/way ride was over the Mangere bridge, CRAP!! It was windy and nasty. Now I just blast over it.

Your bikes fine. im on a 25 year old bike and im 43 and 100k. Ive been on a ride with lots of Scorpeos, they honk along.

Seriously, hit me up for a ride round. I dont care if it half hour our 5 hours.

[nzspokes]

Oh yeah, you get used to the wind.

I will can get you a copy of Twist of the wrist DVD. It will help you to.

[Tigadee]

Awesome advice, thanks mates.

NZspokes - Will hit you up real soon!

[Tigadee]

Took the Scorpio for a long ride today. Even went on the motorway again and this time 80 kph seemed OK, as I leaned forward and hunched a little. Also it was less windy today... So I pushed up to 100kph and that feeling that the bike was swaying and about to lift off the ground came again. Seriously wonder if I need a heavier bike! [Not more powerful, just heavier/bigger.] I mean, just add wings and I think I can fly to work! LOL!

Back on the neighbourhood roads and it was great although I stalled twice, once at the traffic light and once when I stopped behind a car. I have trouble telling what gear I'm in and whether I am properly in 1st gear. Is it possible to have a gear indicator display installed?:facepalm:

I also noticed that after 30 mins, my [big] bum started to ache.:spanking: I think I need a wider and more padded seat! Other than that, it was such fun, and the weather today was brilliant... Lovely!

[nzspokes]

Took the Scorpio for a long ride today. Even went on the motorway and this time 80 kph seemed OK, as I leaned forward and hunched a little. Also it was less windy today... So I pushed up to 100kph and that feeling that the bike was swaying and about to lift off the ground came again. Seriously wonder if I need a heavier bike! [Not more powerful, just heavier/bigger.] I mean, just add wings and I think I can fly to work! LOL!

Back on the neighbourhood roads and it was great although I stalled twice, once at the traffic light and once when I stopped behind a car. I have trouble telling what gear I'm in and whether I am properly in 1st gear. Is it possible to have a gear indicator display installed?:facepalm:

I also noticed that after 30 mins, my [big] bum started to ache.:spanking: I think I need a wider and more padded seat! Other than that, it was such fun, and the weather today was brilliant... Lovely!

All these things will improve as you ride more. Dont worry about the bike.

[nathanwhite]

I have trouble telling what gear I'm in and whether I am properly in 1st gear. Is it possible to have a gear indicator display installed?:facepalm:


When I'm coming up to lights, I just keep clicking down gears. When it stops moving down, i'm in first.

[Tigadee]

NZspokes - Righty-ho, sir...:drinknsin Thanks for the encouragement.

Nathanwhite - Sorry, my bad. With the 1st, the problem is sometimes the clutch sticks and I can't get into 1st unless I release the clutch and/or roll the bike forward a little. Another time I didn't realise I was in 2nd and ended up stalling when I tried to start off...

[nathanwhite]

Having to roll the bike a little to change gear (I think) is normal.
Perhaps I should clarify too. When I am coming up to the lights, decelerating from 50 to 0 I am shifting down, so that by the time I am doing about 10kph I am in first.

[nzspokes]

NZspokes - Righty-ho, sir...:drinknsin Thanks for the encouragement.

Nathanwhite - Sorry, my bad. With the 1st, the problem is sometimes the clutch sticks and I can't get into 1st unless I release the clutch and/or roll the bike forward a little. Another time I didn't realise I was in 2nd and ended up stalling when I tried to start off...

The clutch thing is normal. On mine I have to hold pressure on the gear lever as I release the clutch a bit and it clunks in. You learn your bikes tricks after awhile.

[Tigadee]

Many thanks for clarifying! It is indeed good and extremely helpful to hear from other Scorpio owners who are more in tune with their machines!

[Badjelly]

Finally, for protection of finish, I recommend Inox Lanox (an oily spray like CRC, but contains lanolin and sticks better).


I'm not familiar with that product. Is it available in places like Repco or just anywhere like Bunnings?

I get mine from Supercheap Auto. It may well be available at Repco and other places.

[Tigadee]

i reckon by your third time on the motorway you'll be loving it :niceone:

I'm getting there! Heh! Heh!

Badjelly - Thanks! I'll drop by there today...

[Tigadee]

Two hops on the motorway this evning, very invigorating.

100kph again, better but still don't feel 100 percent, the bike wobbled a few times whenever I looked back to check my six. Or should I not do that at that speed and use mirrors only instead?

Making good progress and I think I can handle a test run on the weekend for the route to work. It's a 30 mins ride by car and will be the longest motorway ride for me so far.

I am liking the Scorpio so far, it's robust enough to handle my mistakes, especially the clutch and go. I still stall couple times each day, but I try to be more conscious of hovering near the friction zone now when I am prepared to start from every stop. Changing gears is now better, I know which gears I'm in most of the time, but just not changing as smoothlyautomatic as I do with driving my manual gear car.

[nzspokes]

Two hops on the motorway this evning, very invigorating.

100kph again, better but still don't feel 100 percent, the bike wobbled a few times whenever I looked back to check my six. Or should I not do that at that speed and use mirrors only instead?

Making good progress and I think I can handle a test run on the weekend for the route to work. It's a 30 mins ride by car and will be the longest motorway ride for me so far.

I am liking the Scorpio so far, it's robust enough to handle my mistakes, especially the clutch and go. I still stall couple times each day, but I try to be more conscious of hovering near the friction zone now when I am prepared to start from every stop. Changing gears is now better, I know which gears I'm in most of the time, but just not changing as smoothly as I do with driving my manual gear car.

Thats great mate, your starting to get it worked out. The motorway looking thing will be more your leaning or pushing on the bars not the bike. I can now take hands off the bars and adjust things etc. more you ride the easier it will get.

[newhere]

NZspokes - Righty-ho, sir...:drinknsin Thanks for the encouragement.

Nathanwhite - Sorry, my bad. With the 1st, the problem is sometimes the clutch sticks and I can't get into 1st unless I release the clutch and/or roll the bike forward a little. Another time I didn't realise I was in 2nd and ended up stalling when I tried to start off...

I had that problem with mine to, the clutch lever cable (im not sure this is the correct terminology) is to tight (the little bit near the actual clutch lever) for some reason after a service this would happen to my scorpio, loosen it off and you should be right! :yes:

[Tigadee]

The motorway looking thing will be more your leaning or pushing on the bars not the bike.

Ahhh, I see... I thought it was from the changing aerodynamics of my helmet turning from forward to side.

Newhere - Thanks, mate!

[Tigadee]

I start mine fine every morning, have only needed the choke about 3 times since I've had it and that was during the really cold snap we had recently.

Starting doesn't seem to be a problem now. Maybe the warmer weather or else the previous owner tried too hard? But all I need to do is push on the start button and add a little throttle and it starts. Then I let it warm up a minute before moving.

Looks like this means nothing wrong with the battery, after all. Yay!