Scooters versus motorcycles

[kaz]

Hi there I'm new to the forum. I currently have a wee 50cc Sym Mio. I have a restricted license now and am considering getting something else so the Wellington hills aren't so tough! So far I've narrowed it down to a PGO T-Rex 150 or a Piaggio Fly 125.

But for a similar price I could get a motorcycle like the Suzuki GN250 instead. Can anyone tell me what the key differences are that I might notice when riding? I realise I could go faster on a motorbike but since I rarely ride on the motorway and mostly commute about 8kms twice a day, this does not seem important. Are there safety differences? Better stability or something?

[kaz]

Me again - I should probably mention that I love my current scooter (but not it's lack of power) and that I ride in all weathers very happily. I am not a fair-weather scooter rider - it's too much fun to miss opportunities to ride!:yes:

[paturoa]

I've always been keen on the larger front wheel diameter (you get with mbikes) for emergency braking.

[McJim]

My wife wanted a scooter for a while - then she sat on a sportsbike and has never wanted a scooter again.

It's a personal taste thing - if you really want a bike you'll get one - if you don't you won't.

I think you should wear all the gear all the time (protective boots, trousers, jacket, gloves and helmet) but scooter riders don't seem to wear all the gear but go just as fast as motorbikes around town.

I guess scooter riders get hurt more when they get swiped by cars then.

[Mr. Peanut]

There is no versus, they're both bikes and both highly entertaining. I'd go for the scooters over a GN250.

Had a look at the Suzuki FXR 150?

[Babelfish]

I'd go for a push bike....a pink one with tassles and spokey dokeys...before a GN250...and then a scooter. :mellow:

Joking aside, if you want to do longer distances, then I'd suggest a bike (but something cool, not the vermin of the biking world). If you are just heading to the cafe or dairy, texting your mates while you go, stick to the scooter. If you cant identify with all the biking safety aspects, stick to the lower speeds of a 50cc.

[kaz]

Thanks McJim. I agree with you about protective gear and that's why I already do already wear protective gear. Lately I've also added a reflective vest over the top at night.

[kaz]

Thanks but how does a bigger wheel diameter actually help with braking? I'm curious.

[kaz]

I appreciate the replies but need explanations too. Like, why is a bigger wheel diameter good? Or why do you suggest a scooter over the GN250? Why suggest the Suzuki FXR150 - same engine size as the T-Rex so what's the difference? (also please don't assume I don't wear or identify with safety gear. I do wear protective gear and have no issue with this).

There seems to be a lot of mythology around motorcycles - partly why I posted my question about scooters versus motorcycles on the scooter forum and not among the motorcycle threads. Sometimes when you try to talk to people about this stuff, they just trot out cliches that I can't make sense of (like "you have to lay it down to avoid a crash". Surely laying it down IS a crash! or "you need power to accelerate out of trouble". What situations does this actually apply in?) So I'm hoping you fellow scooter riders can actually explain this stuff to me coz I'm really interested.

From what I can tell so far, the advantage of a scooter is that it has a storage box (I take my "nice" clothes to change into at work and my lunch etc), it's easy to park in all kinds of places, it's cheap to run, it's automatic which is good in the CBD (I can deal with gears no problem but why bother if you don't have to). Advantages of motorcycles are...what...?

[The Lone Rider]

Get a 250 bike. You'll like the power increase, and manual gears is always great for when you are going up and down hills.

-- To your post

Big diameter wheels gives you more surface area when you are breaking, and I've find also great when you go over bumps and holes in the road.

I have no clue why people bag Gn250s.. they are common, and small little cruiser bikes. They run good. I think some people here just a bit too caught up with how much over the speed limit they can get.

You need power to avoid a crash in such situations as a car driver not seeing you and come flying at you. Increased power you can haul ass a lot faster to get out of the way, and also allows for you (if you are a heavy person) to haul ass more then a lower power bike.

[klingon]

I was actually intending to get a scooter originally, but ended up with a bike. Obviously that makes me biased! My reasons for coosing a bike over a scooter were:

- Larger front wheel diameter of a bike means when you hit a pot-hole or something you can ride over it more smoothly without the big jolt

- A bit more power means you have the option of going out on the open road if you choose, not just kicking around town

- I prefer the riding position on a bike. Somehow it feels more stable to me to straddle it rather than sit 'on' it - probably just personal preference

- The gear issue. I see too many scooter riders running around in their everyday clothing, and I prefer to wear the full gear. Culturally that seems to be more easily accepted when you ride a bike than when you're on a scoot.

So that about covers it - all personal opinion rather than fact, all factors that encouraged me to get a bike instead of a scooter.

By the way, you can get a top box or pack rack for a bike so the gear storage issue isn't really a biggie.

Good luck in your quest for a new ride :)

[The Wop]

Given your usage needs, I would say that a scooter will be fine. You can get manual, 200cc scooters, so the gear argument is redundant, you can get 250cc versions that sh*t all over GN's, so that one is redundant too and some modern scooters have large enough wheels to make traction and the like very similar.

Let's face it, bikers bag scooterists as they clearly feel the need to compensate! :)

[Dave Lobster]

Try both. See if you can borrow someone's scooter for a couple of weeks. Something a bit quicker than a moped.
And someone's bound to have a bike lying around that they'd lend you.

All different types of scooter are different. Same with bikes.

For my own $0.02 worth, I'd look at some sort of a trail bike for nipping round town. A 250 or a 400. They've got lots of woosh and they're high up for visibility. They don't get damaged when you put them down either. And they're cheap as chips.

[swbarnett]

For me the only real difference between a scooter and a bike is the fuel tank. On a scooter your knees sit in mid air. On a bike they grip the tank (unless you're knee-down in a corner on the track). This gives you more control and you are more "one with the machine".

[kaz]

Hey thanks everyone, your comments are really helpful. Dave Lobster, that sounds like a good idea.

My partner has a Vespa ET4 150 and I already ride that sometimes so I know I like a bigger scooter.

To Klingon and swbarnett: the riding position comment is useful. I notice that even on the Vespa, I'm on a bit less of a "perch" than I am on the Mio. I certainly like the idea of being "one with the machine" - especially since I love to really lean into those Ngaio Gorge corners.

[kaz]

Thanks Dyers. That makes sense about the wheel size and potholes. But how is there more tyre on the road? Wouldn't the surface area be similar (unless the width was greater on a bigger wheel)

Interesting comment re: the GN250 too. Yeah I guess they can't be too bad if there's heaps of them around, I see them all the time.

[delusionz]

Would just like to add, I believe the "power to get out of trouble" argument is somewhat redundant. When I used to ride a 50cc scooter I experienced at least 1 sometimes 2 or 3 near misses a day in the bus lanes with people trying to turn onto the road without looking right, if I had been riding a faster machine I probably would have been ahead of where I was at the time of the near miss (ie, smacked from my left side into a car on my right side or in other words sandwiched in a T bone if not being the T bone).

This is not to say more power on tap is not justifiable, It's just to say you have to be alot more responsible and a little less reckless as you tend to get on a 50cc scooter (ie, full throttle or nothing style riding)

[Delphinus]

Remember Kaz, at the end of the day you really just have to ride them all and decide for yourself.
Definitly take a couple out, starting with the GN250, and the FXR150. You should be able to find a couple of these at the dealers. That will give you more of an idea of what style of bike you will be riding... and having the ability to go for a cruise on the motorway/country is a mega bonus.

Bigger wheels? Definite bonus, when riding scooters over in raro, urrgh they were horrible after riding a motorbike. Just the difference in stability.
Remember that when a wheel is spinning it acts as a gyroscope. The bigger the wheel the more gyroscopic effect (harder to fall over) it has, making the bike more stable.
As for more contact on the road, I guess if you think of a ferris wheel, a wheel that size definitly has more contact on the road than a scooter wheel, that therefore proves that a larger wheel = more contact. Also when progressive braking, when the bike sits down in the forks, more pressure is applied where the rubber contacts with the road, this "flattens" the contact patch, meaning more rubber on road with a bigger wheel means more braking power.

Hope that all makes sense and is correct. Just trying to remember what they taught us at the RRRS course I did a while back.

[avgas]

As fun as scooters are. There is no supplement for gears on 2 wheels. Its like comparing BMX's and mountainbikes.
Never became a fan of gear'd scooters either - felt awkward with gripshift.

[kaz]

Hi delusionz, yeah I am often suspicious of the "more power to get out of trouble" idea. I wonder why nobody mentions applying your brakes skillfully as an excellent way out of trouble. Or using anticipation. Those things have certainly got me out of trouble a few times. But I guess those things just don't sound as cool.

[kaz]

Hi Delpinus, ok I think I get the tyre-on-road thing better now, thanks, especially where braking flattens the surface against the road. I like the gyroscope idea too. I saw that Kymco Bug make a 16 inch wheel scooter (the Espresso) and that might be interesting to ride (except I think the dealer is in Christchurch).

[Macktheknife]

The other issues might be around cornering ability, ground clearance, tyre choice, wind profile, etc. There is also the 'fun' factor, scooters are fun to ride, bikes are even more fun to ride but this is not always welcome to some people.
Kaz, the most important thing is that you enjoy what you ride and it gives you room to build your skills.
Try a few things and see what rings your bell.

[Macktheknife]

Hi delusionz, yeah I am often suspicious of the "more power to get out of trouble" idea. I wonder why nobody mentions applying your brakes skillfully as an excellent way out of trouble. Or using anticipation. Those things have certainly got me out of trouble a few times. But I guess those things just don't sound as cool.

The power out of trouble thing is often misrepresented.
Anticipation and road awareness are great things to use, as is good braking technique, but all must be practised to get maximum effect.
Motorbikes have 3 areas of difference to cages, acceleration, braking and handling. Any 1 of these can get you out of trouble, knowing which one to use in the situation is the key, the most notable difference is in acceleration, which is why most people talk about it.
And it is true to say that it can save you a lot of trouble when used wisely, it can also get you into more trouble when done poorly. Rider courses such as RRRS and mentors can really help in learning and practising these things.

[delusionz]

The power out of trouble thing is often misrepresented.
Anticipation and road awareness are great things to use, as is good braking technique, but all must be practised to get maximum effect.
Motorbikes have 3 areas of difference to cages, acceleration, braking and handling. Any 1 of these can get you out of trouble, knowing which one to use in the situation is the key, the most notable difference is in acceleration, which is why most people talk about it.
And it is true to say that it can save you a lot of trouble when used wisely, it can also get you into more trouble when done poorly. Rider courses such as RRRS and mentors can really help in learning and practising these things.

Can't agree more.

[MisterD]

Hi delusionz, yeah I am often suspicious of the "more power to get out of trouble" idea. I wonder why nobody mentions applying your brakes skillfully as an excellent way out of trouble. Or using anticipation. Those things have certainly got me out of trouble a few times. But I guess those things just don't sound as cool.

There's a difference between "power to get out of trouble" and the sheer ability to keep up with the rest of the traffic on the road, which restricted 50cc'ers just don't have....you want to spend your entire day being overtaken and cut-up by B-trains?

[kaz]

MisterD, I can tell your comment is meant to be helpful but unfortunately I don't know what it means. Spending my entire day...? (I just ride 7km to work). Being "cut up by B-trains" - what is that? (btw my current scooter is not restricted and keeps up with the traffic ok).

[SHELRACING]

Hey thanks everyone, your comments are really helpful. Dave Lobster, that sounds like a good idea.

My partner has a Vespa ET4 150 and I already ride that sometimes so I know I like a bigger scooter.

To Klingon and swbarnett: the riding position comment is useful. I notice that even on the Vespa, I'm on a bit less of a "perch" than I am on the Mio. I certainly like the idea of being "one with the machine" - especially since I love to really lean into those Ngaio Gorge corners.

If you love leaning around corners then get a bike. GN's are certainly not the fastest bikes around.
When choosing a bike I went into the shops and test rode a few I liked the look of. I settled on a Honda CB400 Hyper V-Tech.
Since then I have gone for a sportsbike because I much prefer the riding position.
Have a ride on a Honda VTR 250. :Punk:

[The Lone Rider]

Thanks Dyers. That makes sense about the wheel size and potholes. But how is there more tyre on the road? Wouldn't the surface area be similar (unless the width was greater on a bigger wheel)

I was thinking width mainly, but thats just because I find my current bike that has fat tires (not quite M109 fat though) more comfortable over some roads compared to the other bike I owned.

If you want to hoon around corners at high speed, get a sports/upright bike. Cruisers have low clearance generally. If you want to lay back and have the wind in your hair (uh.. facial hair) get a cruiser.

Try all bikes. Its fun. Even if you don't want to buy them. I always loved the look of choppers but I tried one a week ago and it was very uncomftable. Likewise with sports bikes. I don't like my family jewels crunched and don't like feeling like I'm trying to take a crap while leaning forward and holding a towel rack. But you won't know what you like until you try.

And I don't like scooters.. tried one. Couldn't ride it properly for the life of me.. having my legs centered and my knees at my chin because I'm tall lol

Having power to save yourself even when most of the time braking is all you need, is better then not having it and then ending in a situation where your response was the get the fuck out of the way but didn't have the means to move at the split second.

[MisterD]

MisterD, I can tell your comment is meant to be helpful but unfortunately I don't know what it means. Spending my entire day...? (I just ride 7km to work). Being "cut up by B-trains" - what is that? (btw my current scooter is not restricted and keeps up with the traffic ok).

A b-train is one of those fucking great trucks that bends in the middle...they do considerably more than 50kph. Personally, I wouldn't ride anything that couldn't hit 100

[moT]

DONT GET A GN250 THEY ARE THE LAMEST BIKES IN THE WORLD THEY DO A 20SEC QUARTER MILE!!! get a sports 4stroke 250 eg: CBR250 or a 2 stroke 250 eg:NSR 250 or a 2 stroke 150 eg: RG150 yeah.. u wont regret it

[avgas]

Get the PGO with NOS and a turbo
then you might be as quick and nimble as the average 150 road bike

[avgas]

DONT GET A GN250 THEY ARE THE LAMEST BIKES IN THE WORLD THEY DO A 20SEC QUARTER MILE!!!
Compared to the whopping 49 second quarter for a 50cc scoot. I think it will have more than enough for this noob to handle.

[Jantar]

DONT GET A GN250 THEY ARE THE LAMEST BIKES IN THE WORLD THEY DO A 20SEC QUARTER MILE!!! get a sports 4stroke 250 eg: CBR250 or a 2 stroke 250 eg:NSR 250 or a 2 stroke 150 eg: RG150 yeah.. u wont regret it
Tom, from your comment I can only assume that you are still quite young, and very inexperienced in riding the right bike for the situation. The GN250 is designed as a learner/commuter bike. It performs this role perfectly. It can easily keep up with and pass most traffic in commuting situations, and is such a neutral handling bike that it is perfect for learners.

It doesn't have the top speed or acceleration of any of the bikes you name, but not a single one of them is truely a learners bike either. The GN250 can also be used for long distance touring as Lee Rusty showed on a Southern Cross ride. Not one of the bikes you mention would be suitable for such a journey.

Kaz was asking about the difference between scooters and bikes, and from reading other points she makes through this thread, I don't get the idea that she is trying to set a 7km world speed record. So for her purposes the GN250 would be a great choice.

[delusionz]

DONT GET A GN250 THEY ARE THE LAMEST BIKES IN THE WORLD THEY DO A 20SEC QUARTER MILE!!! get a sports 4stroke 250 eg: CBR250 or a 2 stroke 250 eg:NSR 250 or a 2 stroke 150 eg: RG150 yeah.. u wont regret it

I think 250cc 2 stroke should only be considered by those that have done their time on a 250cc 4 stroke and are waiting out the time from restricted to full.

I just went from an SB50 scooter to a GPX250 bike and there is more power on tap than I could ever need since I plan on keeping my license, my bike and most importantly MY LIFE.

[delusionz]

Hi there I'm new to the forum. I currently have a wee 50cc Sym Mio. I have a restricted license now and am considering getting something else so the Wellington hills aren't so tough! So far I've narrowed it down to a PGO T-Rex 150 or a Piaggio Fly 125.

But for a similar price I could get a motorcycle like the Suzuki GN250 instead. Can anyone tell me what the key differences are that I might notice when riding? I realise I could go faster on a motorbike but since I rarely ride on the motorway and mostly commute about 8kms twice a day, this does not seem important. Are there safety differences? Better stability or something?

P.S. Kaz, By restricted do you mean car restricted "1R"? If so this still wont allow you to ride anything more than a 50cc scooter, You'll need to get your motorcycle learners "6L" first. Motorcycles (This includes scooters with engines bigger than 50cc) are a separate class of vehicle from cars. Yes, This means you will need to graduate a total of 6 licenses if you wish to freely drive both cars and motorcycles. You'll need to pass a handling skills practical (ring up a motorcycle dealer for this) and present the certificate to AA when you book your class 6 learners theory.

[Dave Lobster]

I think 250cc 2 stroke should only be considered by those that have done their time on a 250cc 4 stroke and are waiting out the time from restricted to full.


Some people ride 250 strokers through choice, rather than necessity. Its a lot harder to hussle a screaming Aprilia 250 along than it is something like an R6.

[kaz]

P.S. Kaz, By restricted do you mean car restricted "1R"? If so this still wont allow you to ride anything more than a 50cc scooter, You'll need to get your motorcycle learners "6L" first. Motorcycles (This includes scooters with engines bigger than 50cc) are a separate class of vehicle from cars. Yes, This means you will need to graduate a total of 6 licenses if you wish to freely drive both cars and motorcycles. You'll need to pass a handling skills practical (ring up a motorcycle dealer for this) and present the certificate to AA when you book your class 6 learners theory.

Delusionz, sorry I was not clear: I do have a learners motorcycle license and am booked for a test for my restricted motorcycle license soon. So I have my full car license (and, for what it's worth, I also have a HT license - woohoo!). Thanks for your comments.

[kaz]

Tom, from your comment I can only assume that you are still quite young, and very inexperienced in riding the right bike for the situation. The GN250 is designed as a learner/commuter bike. It performs this role perfectly. It can easily keep up with and pass most traffic in commuting situations, and is such a neutral handling bike that it is perfect for learners.

It doesn't have the top speed or acceleration of any of the bikes you name, but not a single one of them is truely a learners bike either. The GN250 can also be used for long distance touring as Lee Rusty showed on a Southern Cross ride. Not one of the bikes you mention would be suitable for such a journey.

Kaz was asking about the difference between scooters and bikes, and from reading other points she makes through this thread, I don't get the idea that she is trying to set a 7km world speed record. So for her purposes the GN250 would be a great choice.

Yeah, thanks Jantar! I am trying to get to work safely and without getting a ticket for speeding along the way - and the speed limits are 50km and 70km, respectively.

I do sometimes split lanes or work to the front of a queue at lights, especially if it means avoiding a truck, bus, or one of those dodgy drivers who yap on their cellphones and wander. I'd like something that allows a reasonably quick getaway and decent speed up the big hills near where I now live.

Anyway, I test rode a PGO T-Rex 150 yesterday. I was at first horrified by the riding position - a "perch" - but decided to have a decent ride anyway.

I deliberately sought out some road works and potholes, took it up and down big hills, and around winding roads, and tried creeping very very slowly through heavy CBD traffic.

And despite the "perch", I found I could happily lean into corners, it was peppy on the take-off, much faster than my Sym Mio 50cc (obviously), and it felt really stable at very slow speeds too. The pothole travel also felt a lot better than on my Mio - the T-Rex has 12 inch, quite fat tyres compared with my little Mio 10 inch tyres. It was easy to get on and off its stand, and I liked the position of the controls (more so than my partner's Vespa actually, which seems built for bigger Man Hands). So I am tempted by the T-Rex - even though it's a little ugly looking.

I am tempted to try the GN250 too, especially after the comments recommending it (and recommending I just try different things). My only hesitation is that I actually haven't ridden a bike with gears before (except my pushbike!) so I'm not sure how keen they'll be to let me take the bike out. Maybe if I showed them my HT license ; ) :laugh:

[kaz]

I always loved the look of choppers but I tried one a week ago and it was very uncomftable. Likewise with sports bikes. I don't like my family jewels crunched and don't like feeling like I'm trying to take a crap while leaning forward and holding a towel rack. But you won't know what you like until you try.

And I don't like scooters.. tried one. Couldn't ride it properly for the life of me.. having my legs centered and my knees at my chin because I'm tall lol

:D Dyers, those are some interesting images!

I noticed on the T-Rex 150 scooter I tried yesterday that there are two non-slip covered places in the well where they think you might place your feet - one directly under your knees and one out ahead of your body. It was interesting to try them. Either way you are still "perched" on the seat but I really did not like the second position (with feet ahead) - I think that's maybe more like a cruiser position - and it felt less like I was in control.

[davereid]

Ride a few and choose what you like.

Those who say that any motorcycle will out-corner or out-brake any scooter are just badly informed.

A Peugeot Jetforce 125 scooter has ABS brakes on massive disks, and will out-stop any GN250. And the jetforce kompressor is good for more than 20hp, so it will outperform it too.

The TGB RX50 has disks front and rear as well, and soft compound tyres with massive forks, and it will go around corners as fast as a "proper" motorcycle.

The Speedfight II has centerhub steering on an extremely solid frame, and handles like perfection.

There are lots of great bikes out there and lots of great scooters - look for quality, look for a machine that "fits you" and suits you, and ride safe.

[kaz]

Thanks davereid. I found out about the Jetforce recently and am intrigued - but it is not cheap (of course) and I'm scared to try it in case I really love it and then want to fork out heaps to buy one! But I might anyway... My bro has a GN250 and I'm visiting him next week so hopefully he'll let me take it for a spin.

[magicfairy]

My 2 cents. I rode scooters for years, commuting, even though I have had a full bike license since the days you went round the block on a Nify Fifty to get one.
In hindsight I wish I has switched to riding a "real" motorbike a lot sooner than I did.
The older you are the harder it can be to aquire new skills, your reactions aren't as fast and your eyesight and hearing start to deteriorate.

I found riding a bigger bike much more difficult than zipping around town on a scooter.

You may only be commuting now but in the future you might want to get into longer trips, touring, rallies. You may have a partner who is into bikes and want to join them.

Get a motorbike - learn to ride well and you will never lose those skills. Then if you decide you like scootering - go back to a scooter.

[kaz]

Hi magicfairy, your thoughts make good sense. It's nice to have a woman join this conversation too.

I just re-rode the PGO T-Rex scooter and...I don't feel sure about it so probably won't get it now.

I've got my restricted license test tomorrow afternoon. So at least that part of things is ticking along.

[Delphinus]

Good luck with the test, you should be fine :)

[ICE180]

All this talk about LONG RIDES that scooters wont be able to do is a crock
Any half decient scooter will get you any where a bike will go and with your licence still in ya hand.

AS for the scooter v bike thing it will be a discussion like do you belive in god and if not why to a atheist

[Pogo2]

Lots of differing opinions huh!

I went from one extreme to the other - had a BMW K100RS then brought a T-Rex 150, which I really enjoy. Like you I commute 16km each way per day. The main reason for buy a scoot was cost. Not so much the initial outlay but the on going costs. My Beemer cost me about $1000 per year regardless of the number of km's I did in fixed costs. The scoot is quite a bit cheaper. Everyone a work that rides a bike gives me heaps and they get it in return. Like one of the other guys said before it's up to you. Buy it for your reasons not someone elses. Some people are obsessed with speed, but like it or not 50k is the speed limit and the T-Rex will buzz around town easily at 60-70km/hr.

Around town scoots are faster that cars in the traffic and that has to be a plus at the end of the day. Let us know if you want any info on the T-Rex. BTW I don't sell them so I am unbiased as I can be!

[delusionz]

I am tempted to try the GN250 too, especially after the comments recommending it (and recommending I just try different things). My only hesitation is that I actually haven't ridden a bike with gears before (except my pushbike!) so I'm not sure how keen they'll be to let me take the bike out. Maybe if I showed them my HT license ; ) :laugh:

Go for it mate, GN250 will give you ample power for the 50's and 70's... not so much the 100's but it can do it if you must.

P.S. Motorcycle dealers should be happy to help you, I got to test ride my GPX250R before I purchased it (Brand spankin new) and I showed my license 1L,6L and the sales rep was cool with that, You just have to sign a form saying you are liable for the excess if you crash it. And the "I agree to go a maximum of ___ kilometers" left blank, I did 17. haha

If you can drive a manual car, You should be able to adapt pretty easily once you learn where all the controls are, When you jump on it, click it into first gear and practice letting the clutch in and out until you find the engage, don't stall of course. On mine it's approximately the last 1/4 or 1/5 of the lever. From there on you should be sweet, and remember from the bottom it's 1, N, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 on some bikes. When you are moving you cant really select neutral (its a half click) so when starting, click down to 1 and then up to 2 with a full click. When coming to a stop click all the way down and when you have completely stopped click up again and you'll hit neutral. (You'll know you have neutral because you'll see a green light on your dash with N on it).

Thats all there is to it really, Sorry if you feel I may be talking down to you as I don't know what you know or don't know.

P.S. Don't let the bike scare you, if you're confident it will show.

[delusionz]

Try all bikes. Its fun. Even if you don't want to buy them. I always loved the look of choppers but I tried one a week ago and it was very uncomftable. Likewise with sports bikes. I don't like my family jewels crunched and don't like feeling like I'm trying to take a crap while leaning forward and holding a towel rack. But you won't know what you like until you try.

haha yeah i have to hold my nuts before mounting or they do get crunched, i like your analogy of the cruiser. funny.

[N4CR]

round cbd scooters ftw. or else anything faster in traffic an fxr150. faster and lighter than a gn250 and not made in china at the moment fo rnewer ones lol. it also does phat wheelies and stoppies if you try hard enough, and can go two up and do at least 130 real speed.

[swbarnett]

Go for it mate, GN250 will give you ample power for the 50's and 70's... not so much the 100's but it can do it if you must.

Took mine down to Hamilton last weekend. 100 to 110 most of the way and the weather was shitty to say the least (wet roads and a very strong cross wind). I even managed to keep it at 100k back up the Bombay hill.

Also, I commute on the Auckland motorway daily at times when the traffic is free flowing.

[kaz]

Thats all there is to it really, Sorry if you feel I may be talking down to you as I don't know what you know or don't know. P.S. Don't let the bike scare you, if you're confident it will show.

No worries, delusionz, I appreciate the lesson in bike gearing! I didn't know how it worked but I am quite mechanically minded and also quite good on the hand-eye co-ordination so I'll give it a go. My bro in auckland still hasn't confirmed if I can take his GN250 out next week when I visit but I'm sure he will as he now has some kind of Ducati Death Machine (actually it looks big and absolutely beautiful but he doesn't have proper riding gear or much experience :shit:

Anyway, despite my horrible cold I passed my restricted license test about 10 minutes ago so I'm having a celebratory torching of the L plate tonight :sunny:

[kaz]

I went from one extreme to the other - had a BMW K100RS then brought a T-Rex 150, which I really enjoy. Like you I commute 16km each way per day. The main reason for buy a scoot was cost. Not so much the initial outlay but the on going costs. My Beemer cost me about $1000 per year regardless of the number of km's I did in fixed costs. The scoot is quite a bit cheaper. Everyone a work that rides a bike gives me heaps and they get it in return. Like one of the other guys said before it's up to you. Buy it for your reasons not someone elses. Some people are obsessed with speed, but like it or not 50k is the speed limit and the T-Rex will buzz around town easily at 60-70km/hr.

Around town scoots are faster that cars in the traffic and that has to be a plus at the end of the day. Let us know if you want any info on the T-Rex. BTW I don't sell them so I am unbiased as I can be!

Hi Pogo2, it was interesting to hear the difference in maintenance/running costs between your BMW and T-Rex. I wonder if the difference would be similar between a smaller bike and scooter?

I really liked a lot of things about the T-Rex but I am still a little bugged by the riding position. And I have to admit to something kinda dumb here: I think that because the scooter I have now was/is my first scooter and therefore special, I think I want my next scooter to be special (more special than just going faster :yes: ) And something about the T-Rex feels a bit utilitarian in comparison to the groovy curves of the Mio.

I've always been attached to my cars too over the years - my first car was a 1965 Fiat Crusader (red leather seats and twin carbs), and my second was a 1971 Ford Falcon stationwagon, then there was a 1972 Peugeot 404, then a Datsun 120Y... What can I say, I grew up an Auckland Westie chick...

Ok, enough of the vehicle romance. So the T-Rex - does that deep bucket pocket around the front fill up with water when it rains? What is the engine cut-out switch useful for?

[delusionz]

My 50cc insurance was $170/year for $2000 value and my 250cc insurance is $1170/year for $7300 value. Petrol on my 50cc was roughly 8L of 91 for 350+ kms, Petrol for my 250cc is roughly 18L of 95 for 300kms. Did my own maintainance and repairs on my 50cc, Time will tell how much money I'll be spending on maintaining my 250cc, Not sure yet.

[Pogo2]

Ok, enough of the vehicle romance. So the T-Rex - does that deep bucket pocket around the front fill up with water when it rains? What is the engine cut-out switch useful for?[/QUOTE]

In answer to your questions I have to admit that I have never ridden in heavy rain but I guess to opportunity is there for it to collect some water. I'm yet to find out if there are any drain holes in the pocket.

As far as the cut out switch is concerned I believe it is there as a safety device. If you have a bin then the friendly passer by can stop your engine. Their on all motorbikes and I guess some scoots as well.

Hope this helps!

[Jantar]

A bike will almost always cost more to run than a scooter of a similar size. And for those who don't believe that scooters can be ridden long distances, I assure you they can. In the 2005 Southern Cross there was a Piagio 400 which did the entire 4800 km in 120 hours along with the rest of us.

Each has advantages and disadvantages. Ride both, and if you can get a good ride on the GN250 then do so. Choose the style that suits you best.

[kaz]

Wow. I just test rode the Peugeot Jetforce 125.

It's not like riding a scooter. The fuel tank is between your legs and the centre of gravity is much lower. You are also sitting higher than a scooter and get a great view of the traffic (I am comparing to the PGO T-Rex 150 and the Vespa ET4 150). The brakes are awesome (disks front and back plus ABS on front).

It feels fantastic to ride. But I've seen some really bad reviews here:
http://www.reviewcentre.com/reviews9808.html
they mostly say that when it's running, it's remarkably fuel efficient and lovely to ride. But that there have been heaps of problems with the fuel injection, ignition, etc. and it sounds like very poor service from Peugeot. All the reviews are from 2003-2005; maybe Peugeot have got their act together since then. Or maybe not?

Has anybody else ridden these or owned one? I'm going to post this to a new thread too to find anyone who might own one. I was almost ready to buy one but then I saw those reviews...

[Delphinus]

So thats halfway to a bike... While you're looking you may as well go the whole way and ride a GN250 and a FXR150 :)
Last thing you want is to buy something then try something else a month later and be kicking yourself for not trying it earlier.

From your previous post you seem to be liking alot of the features a true motorbike has...

[crashe]

Or maybe try riding a virago 250..... they are also great to ride.
Great for around town and also out in the country.
There will be one in a bike shop down there in the Wellington area.


(one in my profile picture and one in my avatar)

[IamCornholio]

Get the PGO with NOS and a turbo
then you might be as quick and nimble as the average 150 road bike



Good idea for sure friend! :yes:

I wonder if to have the absolute BEST of both worlds here Kaz could just get a very small motorcycle, powered by a scooter engine (more of less), and then Turbo and/or Spray the piss out of that??? :shit:

THAT would be friggin cool IMHO... :headbang:


Enjoy the pics Kaz. I wish you the best of luck with your decision and purchase friend. :niceone:

[kaz]

I wonder if to have the absolute BEST of both worlds here Kaz could just get a very small motorcycle, powered by a scooter engine (more of less), and then Turbo and/or Spray the piss out of that??? :shit:

Mmm IamCornholio, well I have seriously considered painting a flaming skull on the front of my Mio 50cc. :rockon:

[IamCornholio]

Mmm IamCornholio, well I have seriously considered painting a flaming skull on the front of my Mio 50cc. :rockon:


Curious here friend? Is that a pocketbike? Got any pics by any chance?
(edit: I just googled and saw a Mio 50cc... I would do sick things to that ride if it were in MY stable friend...)

Flaming skulls are cool IMHO. We have a few 'Skulls' on our ride for sure! :yes:


I am a 'newbie' here at KB as well friend, But I will still say, "Welcome to the madness of KB friend!" :scooter:

[kaz]

Curious here friend? Is that a pocketbike? Got any pics by any chance?
(edit: I just googled and saw a Mio 50cc... I would do sick things to that ride if it were in MY stable friend...)

Hey, don't you talk about "Biscuit" like that. :dodge:

[IamCornholio]

Your scooter is much cooler than the pic I found. :yes:

Very cool bike IMHO. :rockon:

[kaz]

Your scooter is much cooler than the pic I found. :yes:

Very cool bike IMHO. :rockon:

Yeah Biscuit may not be the quickest, but she's pretty groovy. And my cat can ride her too :yes:

[StuDent]

Hey Kaz - new to this KB thing but couldn't resist having my two cents worth.

Love the bike - wouldn't be without it - but my scoot is loads better around town. Trouble is it's a 50 and so I can't take it accross the bridge in AKL. Been looking at something bigger and tried a Honda Dylan 150 and Vespa LX150. The Dylan was the business - hauled my 90 kg lard-arse up the bridge at 100km and cruised on the flat at 110 while being smooth and nimble round town. Trouble is the price but you should still try one. Must try a Fly125 - they seem to have the right spec and a more attainable price. Anyone know if these are comfortable for a motorway commute?

[kaz]

Love the bike - wouldn't be without it - but my scoot is loads better around town. Trouble is it's a 50 and so I can't take it accross the bridge in AKL. Been looking at something bigger and tried a Honda Dylan 150 and Vespa LX150. The Dylan was the business - hauled my 90 kg lard-arse up the bridge at 100km and cruised on the flat at 110 while being smooth and nimble round town. Trouble is the price but you should still try one. Must try a Fly125 - they seem to have the right spec and a more attainable price. Anyone know if these are comfortable for a motorway commute?

Hi StuDent, I am also thinking of a Fly 125. Have seen good reviews of the Dylan 150 and it's good to hear that you liked it. My partner has a Vespa ET4 150 which I ride as often as I can when I can prise him away from it. I really like the ET4 except that I find the controls a bit of a stretch for my girlie hands and not as easy to use as on other scooters.

What I really want is a scooter with disk brakes front AND rear, 4 stroke, minimum of 125cc. The Gilera VXR200 looks the business, and people rave about them, but I haven't found one to take for a ride and...it's over $6000 (like the Dylan) :shit:

Good luck finding something to get over the bridge. I have family there so know it well.

[davereid]

Rear disc brakes aren't really that important - the vast majority of braking power comes from the front. Try riding a TGB 150 @ $4995 or less or a TGB 101 (125cc) at $$3495 - same dealer as Peugeot I think.

[delusionz]

Took mine down to Hamilton last weekend. 100 to 110 most of the way and the weather was shitty to say the least (wet roads and a very strong cross wind). I even managed to keep it at 100k back up the Bombay hill.

Also, I commute on the Auckland motorway daily at times when the traffic is free flowing.

I couldn't imagine there being much acceleration at those speeds though, I get a substantial drop off in power after 120 and then in 5th it starts to putputput.

[avgas]

AS for the scooter v bike thing it will be a discussion like do you belive in god and if not why to a atheist
Which one is cooler?

[Dave Lobster]

Which one is cooler?

Depends on how old you are as to whether that is something to worry about.

[Delphinus]

Depends on how old you are as to whether that is something to worry about.

Cool doesn't have to be taken that way. What YOU think about whether 1 bike is more cool than another is plenty enough reason to sway your choice.

[avgas]

The bonnie 650 was cool.
The black shadow was cool.
The Kelvinator was cool.

[kaz]

Cool doesn't have to be taken that way. What YOU think about whether 1 bike is more cool than another is plenty enough reason to sway your choice.

I agree. I think my "Biscuit" is cool. She's just not fast or powerful or big. But what are those things in comparison to chrome, curves, and being able to park anywhere, effortlessly? ; )

Maybe the ideal is when the cool things match up with the practical things.

Some people think I'm not cool for wearing safety gear on a scooter. But I, on the other hand, think injuries requiring skin grafts are extremely uncool.

[swbarnett]

I couldn't imagine there being much acceleration at those speeds though, I get a substantial drop off in power after 120 and then in 5th it starts to putputput.

Indeed, you're not going to overtake anybody in a hurry (just the odd slow truck).

[IamCornholio]

I agree. I think my "Biscuit" is cool. She's just not fast or powerful or big. But what are those things in comparison to chrome, curves, and being able to park anywhere, effortlessly? ; )

Maybe the ideal is when the cool things match up with the practical things.

Some people think I'm not cool for wearing safety gear on a scooter. But I, on the other hand, think injuries requiring skin grafts are extremely uncool.

Well said kaz... :yes:

(I agree 100% about the gear being 'cool', Roadrash sucks!)

[kaz]

Hi everyone, well I can report that I tried the GN250 but didn't really like it that much. Well it wasn't so much that I didn't like it but just that I can't rave about it or say 'ooh yeah! that made me want a motorbike'. (I hope I am not prompting too many replies saying I tried the wrong motorbike. FXR150 fans - I hear ya, I'll find one and try it if I can...)

The GN250 was also pretty gutless when me and my brother were on it together. Strangely, it seemed more gutless than doubling on the Vespa ET4 150 - but why that would be? (Maybe I'm just wrong about that?)

I didn't get to ride my brother's red MH900 Ducati but I did have a bit of a "straddle and stroke" :love: :love: :love:
I can also report that my bro has now bought himself some decent riding gear (and mostly he even uses it)!

[delusionz]

Well it wasn't so much that I didn't like it but just that I can't rave about it or say 'ooh yeah! that made me want a motorbike'.
Can't say theres a scooter that would make me want 1 unless it could surprise a 250 sports or turbo car at the lights :P But this obviously isn't your motive though. GN250 is a mention because it's better value for money than a scooter over 50cc. And actually to be honest, When I was on a 2 stroke 50cc, I had a little race with a guy on a 4 stroke 125cc up a hill and he could still only dawdle along 30 - 45kph side by side with me for about 60 metres to the top before he pulled away from me. A GN250 would have smoked the both of us and by time we were at the top he would have been a dot in the distance. As you mention you don't have $6000 to spend on a Vespa. Personally I don't see how the GN250 can be gutless compared to an ET4-150 anyways - 20HP manual Vs 11HP auto. Even 20HP is a very humble figure anyway, Sure a Vespa looks alot nicer than a GN250 (Looks like crap I know) but atleast it's practical and is ($3300) almost half the price of the Vespa.

[insane1]

why not have a look at the suzuki bergman scooters 250cc auto goes well iv"e had 2 of them jus tupgraded to the 650 exec the baby burger should do you fine check out colemans in town test ride one .

[kaz]

Can't say theres a scooter that would make me want 1 unless it could surprise a 250 sports or turbo car at the lights :P But this obviously isn't your motive though. GN250 is a mention because it's better value for money than a scooter over 50cc. And actually to be honest, When I was on a 2 stroke 50cc, I had a little race with a guy on a 4 stroke 125cc up a hill and he could still only dawdle along 30 - 45kph side by side with me for about 60 metres to the top before he pulled away from me. A GN250 would have smoked the both of us and by time we were at the top he would have been a dot in the distance. As you mention you don't have $6000 to spend on a Vespa. Personally I don't see how the GN250 can be gutless compared to an ET4-150 anyways - 20HP manual Vs 11HP auto. Even 20HP is a very humble figure anyway, Sure a Vespa looks alot nicer than a GN250 (Looks like crap I know) but atleast it's practical and is ($3300) almost half the price of the Vespa.

Like you say, racing other people from the lights isn't my motivation. You've been part of this thread for a while so you can probably guess my opinion on that :rolleyes:

I think my bro's GN250 just might be badly in need of a tune-up.

I mentioned the Vespa ET4 because that's a scooter I regularly "borrow" from my partner (ok, ok, so I get up before him and take it before he can stop me). I don't actually want to buy one though. I just like it because it's more powerful than the "Biscuit" the Mio. I mean, joggers can no longer overtake me when I ride that scooter :yes:

What I've actually got my eye on is a Gilera VXR200.

[kaz]

why not have a look at the suzuki bergman scooters 250cc auto goes well iv"e had 2 of them jus tupgraded to the 650 exec the baby burger should do you fine check out colemans in town test ride one .

I've looked at one (but not ridden one) and from all I've heard, they're a really good scooter. People who have them seem very happy. I'm not as attracted to the way they look, I have to admit, as the Gilera VXR200. But maybe I'll try one out anyhow.

[ICE180]

I think there is a Runner 1802T for sale in wellington on trade me at the moment for $2500
that would meet your expectations I am sure

[delusionz]

I just mentioned Vespa because it costs $6000 which seems to be the benchmark in pricing for a 150cc. The Gilera 200 is closer to $7000, My Ninja 250 cost $7000 ... So yeah you're already talking prices in the motorcycle range just to get a nice looking scooter with power. You're going to be ripping yourself off you know 50cc scooters are around $2000, The full shebang of upgrades wouldn't add up to more than $1500 or so you could have a scooter just as fast as the big CC scooters for $3500 instead of $6000 or $7000, Or if you actually do have that money to spend, You may aswell get a brand spankin new 250cc motorcycle. This is if you're buying brand new, 2nd hand would be a different story.

[UberRhys]

I just mentioned Vespa because it costs $6000 which seems to be the benchmark in pricing for a 150cc. The Gilera 200 is closer to $7000, My Ninja 250 cost $7000 ... So yeah you're already talking prices in the motorcycle range just to get a nice looking scooter with power. You're going to be ripping yourself off you know 50cc scooters are around $2000, The full shebang of upgrades wouldn't add up to more than $1500 or so you could have a scooter just as fast as the big CC scooters for $3500 instead of $6000 or $7000, Or if you actually do have that money to spend, You may aswell get a brand spankin new 250cc motorcycle. This is if you're buying brand new, 2nd hand would be a different story.

The above is all fair comment, but you forgot that emotion comes into these big ticket purchases and is normally the deciding factor. Just know what you are getting into, cos once you have it - it's yours. If you want to maxi-scooter then get one, if you want a bike then get a bike. I do some big km's on my Vespa touring about and commuting and would rather that than a bike anyday. If you have a money tree in the back yard buy both and then give me some so I can buy more...

[delusionz]

I checked out some GT200 reviews - water cooled - nice! perfect for a scooter racing project. Humble power (20HP@8500) as standard though and very little bang for buck, has a slightly higher RRP than a Ninja 250 or Hyosung 250 both of which would smoke it.

[UberRhys]

I checked out some GT200 reviews - water cooled - nice! perfect for a scooter racing project. Humble power (20HP@8500) as standard though and very little bang for buck, has a slightly higher RRP than a Ninja 250 or Hyosung 250 both of which would smoke it.

Very nice, good to see you have done your homework. But it was a scooter I was after and a scooter I got, not a bike. If I was into setting land speed records round town then a 2T 250cc bike would be the ticket.

Speaking of a scooter racing project, there is a GT for sale at Corsa Dismantlers http://www.corsa.co.nz/products.asp?id=50

[delusionz]

Very nice, good to see you have done your homework. But it was a scooter I was after and a scooter I got, not a bike. If I was into setting land speed records round town then a 2T 250cc bike would be the ticket.

Speaking of a scooter racing project, there is a GT for sale at Corsa Dismantlers http://www.corsa.co.nz/products.asp?id=50

Errr, Is the owner dead? Looks like the rider made the top part of a T bone. Ouch. Classic example of why people talk about power to get out of trouble, Which is only half true since that could have been avoided if the rider looked ahead and slowed down.

[Dave Lobster]

that could have been avoided if the rider looked ahead and slowed down.

Genius. I must remember to look where I'm going while second guessing what myopic fools in side roads are going to do..

[danchop]

its cheap $2700 new,fuel injected,4 stroke,disc on front,its so small in size you can breeze through any car jams or slow motorway traffic,i brought one in march and have just clicked over 18000kms already in 5 months,its the best thing for auckland riding ive found and i even went over the harbour bridge the windy night the bikes were sposed to be banned with no problems,to give you an idea i use it for my job as a courier and picked up a job on queen street and delivered it to the airport in 19 minutes last wednesday at 10.30am so they can get around and the only thing i find it chews through is front pads im on my third set

[UberRhys]

its cheap $2700 new,fuel injected,4 stroke,disc on front,its so small in size you can breeze through any car jams or slow motorway traffic,i brought one in march and have just clicked over 18000kms already in 5 months,its the best thing for auckland riding ive found and i even went over the harbour bridge the windy night the bikes were sposed to be banned with no problems,to give you an idea i use it for my job as a courier and picked up a job on queen street and delivered it to the airport in 19 minutes last wednesday at 10.30am so they can get around and the only thing i find it chews through is front pads im on my third set

that looks like quite a sharp scoot, (just googled it) I've not seen one of these before. Do they get good economy? Performance? For the price it is a good buy. Much better than the bargin basement Jog's gor $1k more.

[danchop]

performance is best off the mark beats 99% of cars at the lights so you have no problem going to the front of any traffic que and come out first,top speed in neutral wind is 105km/h and it takes a strong headwind to slow you down,i wiegh about 75kgs and these bikes are very light so you have to take that into account,very good handling and stopping,i cant fault it whatsoever yet apart from i go through a front set of pads every 6000kms but then its is ridden very hard all day long and thats the main reason i picked it over any european scooter and i wouldnt even consider chinese even the suzuki assembled chinese bikes,theres also tons of performance parts for these and custom kits from japanese websites but theyre not cheap,as for fuel economy to be honest i dont know and havnt checked cause i dont really care but i put in about $8 aday and cover around 200 kms i spose

[kaz]

Well after much deliberation, and testing of lots of scooters and a couple of motorbikes (which were all fun to try), I just bought a PGO GMax 250. I am very excited.

It isn't as spunky looking as the Gilera Runner VXR200 which I wanted but...I just could not bring myself to pay $7000 when the perfectly reliable PGO company had produced a GMax which is so similar in design and handles just as well for $5300.

It's definitely a step up from my little Mio ("Biscuit" is a trade-in now) and my partner's Vespa ET150, though I've enjoyed both of them for their own special qualities - yes Biscuit does have special qualities ; )

[Pogo2]

Welcome to the PGO brother/sisterhood!!!

Glad to see that you have a good scoot - certainly had no real complaints about mine.

Must have a look at the GMax, never seen them before. Where did you buy it from. Do you know of any websites were I can have a look at one?

Enjoy!

[kaz]

Welcome to the PGO brother/sisterhood!!!
Glad to see that you have a good scoot - certainly had no real complaints about mine.

Must have a look at the GMax, never seen them before. Where did you buy it from. Do you know of any websites were I can have a look at one?
Enjoy!

Hi Pogo2, thanks for the PGO welcome :woohoo:

I got "X" (it needs a name!) from Motorad in Wellington. You're in Auckland? I think Red Baron in Grey Lynn might have some but not sure where else. Here's a photo to tempt you http://www.pgo-scooter.com/images/PRODUCTS/G-MAX/02.gif

IMHO (based on the test ride):
Pros are price, motorbike-style handling, 250cc so I can go pretty much anywhere, storage box which fits full-face helmet, disk brakes front and rear, 13 inch wheels (big enough to handle the motorway but still small enough to be manoeuvreable around the CBD).
Cons are no glove box and it's not quite as attractive as the Runner (but it's certainly not ugly!), and the catalytic converter on the muffler makes it sound a bit like a big hairdryer (I guess you can always change that. Or just feel good that you're not hurting the environment). Some people would find the front-central petrol tank a con because you can't step-thru. But I think it's a pro because it's part of how the design gives it great handling.

[Pogo2]

Looks pretty flash. Like a bigger T-Rex but not, if you get my gist. Is yours red?

I'll expect a comprehensive report once you have a few km's under your belt (please).

I guess you are running it in but would really like to know how it cruises at 100kph

Safe scootering on "X"

P2

[kaz]

Looks pretty flash. Like a bigger T-Rex but not, if you get my gist. Is yours red?

I'll expect a comprehensive report once you have a few km's under your belt (please).

I guess you are running it in but would really like to know how it cruises at 100kph

Safe scootering on "X"

P2

Yep, it's red. Like a fire engine. Yes, even with the petrol tank forward/centre, it still has a TRex look, especially front on.

I will provide full report just as soon as I can. Motorad reckon the only thing to avoid while running it in is thrashing it at the top end or grunting along incredibly slowly up a steep hill. Maybe I'll "head out on the highway" this weekend :scooter:

[cbr guy]

to me, i see scooters purely for commuting, seem more comfy, economical and easier. and that seems to be what you want.
but you only live once, get the bike i reckon, more fun (and more respect!)

[Pogo2]

Hi Kaz

Followed your advice and went to Red Barons to look at the GMax. Looks really good and not too big either. Price is very attractive. Took a bit of technique to throw the leg over rather than through. Agree with you comments on storage space. The space is about the same as a T-Rex. Definately not much in it. Hopefully we take for a ride in the near future to see what it is like. In the meantime I'll wait for your report with baited breath.

Go PGO!

[Cave Cleaner]

The GN250 was a good bike in its early years, (as I had one in 1989), but have heard the Finish Quality of the newer ones are not as good. For what you want it for I think the scooter would be the thing to go for

[kaz]

Hi Kaz
Followed your advice and went to Red Barons to look at the GMax. Looks really good and not too big either. Price is very attractive. Took a bit of technique to throw the leg over rather than through. Agree with you comments on storage space. The space is about the same as a T-Rex. Definately not much in it. Hopefully we take for a ride in the near future to see what it is like. In the meantime I'll wait for your report with baited breath.
Go PGO!

Hi Pogo2, did you get to take the GMax for test ride? Throwing the leg over did take a bit of getting used to for the first couple of days but now I do it without even thinking about it. It's quite a bit heavier than what I'm used to so that's taken a bit of getting used to. It's fun to ride, especially on the motorway though of course I'm taking it easy! It vibrates more than I would like when stopped at the intersection. You might like to check that out if you go for a ride. I'm used to it already but it seemed weird at first; maybe it will settle down when it is run in.

btw, I've named it The Tardis - red like a phone box and it looks compact but there's much more to it than first meets the eye (including more storage than you think at first). I dunno, the name just popped into my head and has stuck.

Cave Cleaner and cbr guy, thanks for the vote of confidence in my choice.

and...

you only live once, get the bike i reckon, more fun (and more respect!)

Errr, I guess I will just have to live with my second-class form of fun and try not to lie awake at night crying over the lack of respect. Maybe I will be doomed to suffer Clutch Envy :laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh:

[scootnz]

the Tardis was blue. :)

[Pogo2]

Hi Kaz

Trust your having fun on the Tardis!

Yes, yet to take the GMax for a ride - might try for this weekend (weather dependent of course). Yes vibrations are a bit of an issue. When the build a four cylinder scoot I'll be the first to buy:yes:! Mine seems to vibrate more that it used too, despite only having 3500km on the clock. Sometimes it feels like the front mudguard to resonating through the whole frame and I am sure it sounds like a tractor. However that easily fixed by better earplugs!

I'll let you know what my thoughts are once on ridden it. In the meantime let me know how yours is perfoming.

Cheers

P2

[mbazza]

I like the way my scooter gets around town. Yes, I have to be super vigilant and can't tear off from a stand still, but it puts a smile on my dial. I love my motorbike as it can get away quickly, corner well and is comfortables for km after km. They are both usfeul in their own way. Why not have both? Cheers. :scooter:

[kaz]

the Tardis was blue. :)

:o you're right. I just keep thinking of the old NZ phone boxes which were red. Plus, you know, I kinda wanted a blue GMax originally...


I like the way my scooter gets around town. Yes, I have to be super vigilant and can't tear off from a stand still, but it puts a smile on my dial. I love my motorbike as it can get away quickly, corner well and is comfortables for km after km. They are both usfeul in their own way. Why not have both? Cheers. :scooter:

Yeah, why not both! Actually one of the things I am getting used to is the fast take-off on the Tardis compared with the Vespa. I have to be careful not to overdo it as I almost did this morning and suddenly shot to 80km when I meant to do 60km. Grrrrr, 250cc of raw power! Just wait until I put a flaming skull on the front... :laugh: