2008 Yamaha Scorpio 225 review

[vonstringer]

I bought my Scorpio one year ago to beat the rising fuel prices. I travel to work on it and have also been for a few rides in the country with it. It has been a very reliable little bike with only one initial problem. After the running in period, a tiny amount of oil started to seep out the front of the engine between the head and barrel. This was solved (in a couple of goes) with tightening of the main bolts.

A year on the paintwork and most surfaces are still looking good, with the exception of the handlebars. The chrome on the bars is starting to show spots of rust, so I guess they spread it on pretty thin.

My ride to work includes town and country roads and despite my hefty weight, the Scorpio can punt along at a good clip. At 100kmh the tacho shows 6400rpm, which sounds slightly busy but there is still enough in reserve for careful overtaking. It actually gets up to 120kmh relatively quickly and according to other riders (who probably weigh less), a top speed of 140kmh can be achieved on a good day.

The tank holds 10l and I always get 300km before hitting reserve, so I guess this means a fuel economy figure of 3.33l/100km.

When I got the Yamaha I had been without a bike for 6 years and was a bit rusty on riding skills. Despite poor cornering speeds (too fast, too slow) the Scorpio kept travelling in the right direction, so I would class it as very forgiving and an ideal learner. I found if I did go into a corner too fast I could apply a small amount of back brake while just keeping the power on and the bike would go round with a good feeling of control.

With the tyres pumped up to the correct specs, the suspension feels good at the back, but springy at the front. Uneven road surfaces are felt quite distinctly through the bars. Braking depends on how hard you can squeeze that front lever. Loading up the front with slight pressure to set things up, then pretending to crush a beer can in your hand will stop the bike quite rapidly. Back brake provides good control.

Being a little single, the bike can crawl along at almost walking pace. This is handy in heavy traffic and sometimes I find the bike is down to idle speed (1750rpm) in first gear and still putting along. The clutch has a very light action.

The seat looks quite generous and is perfectly comfy for my ride to work, but I find when out in the country after a couple of hours riding my bum starts to suffer. This could be my weight compressing the padding and lighter riders may have no problem.

The Scorpio is cheap, not very exciting, but ideal for commuting and would make a great learner bike.

[The Baron]

Thank you Vonstringer. A good review. We still have a Scorpio in the family,
my 19 year old son. He has done the coast to coast ride twice on his (thats 500km home to home) in a day. He has given it a hard life and it has never let him down. Scorpios rule.

[Cloggy]

I second all that.
Done about 8000km on my wee Scorpio now and it's going strong. Only issue I had is with a leaking fork seal but this was replaced under warranty. I may have even caused this leaking seal myself by going up a driveway a little fast and causing the front to bottom out hard.

There are heaps of aftermarket parts available for these too if you know where to look. Here in NZ, Ventura make pack racks which I have fitted to mine. But in Indonesia where these bikes have been available for quite a few years now, there is almost everthing available. From fancy alloys to rear disc conversions, fairings, headlights, engine covers, different shaped gas tanks, fancy tail pieces with different tail lights, exhausts, luggage boxes etc. The list goes one.
Have a look here if interested:http://tozzymodif.wordpress.com/
Prices are dirt cheap too and he has just started creating some of the pages interesting to us in English.

I have also managed to find a workshop manual if anyone is interested. It's in Indonesian but it is well illustrated and from the pictures and associated text you can easily make out what they are on about and what the relevant specs, torque settings and adjustments are. Can email this to anyone interested. Just send me a pm.

[tozzy]

I second all that.
Done about 8000km on my wee Scorpio now and it's going strong. Only issue I had is with a leaking fork seal but this was replaced under warranty. I may have even caused this leaking seal myself by going up a driveway a little fast and causing the front to bottom out hard.

There are heaps of aftermarket parts available for these too if you know where to look. Here in NZ, Ventura make pack racks which I have fitted to mine. But in Indonesia where these bikes have been available for quite a few years now, there is almost everthing available. From fancy alloys to rear disc conversions, fairings, headlights, engine covers, different shaped gas tanks, fancy tail pieces with different tail lights, exhausts, luggage boxes etc. The list goes one.
Have a look here if interested:http://tozzymodif.wordpress.com/
Prices are dirt cheap too and he has just started creating some of the pages interesting to us in English.

I have also managed to find a workshop manual if anyone is interested. It's in Indonesian but it is well illustrated and from the pictures and associated text you can easily make out what they are on about and what the relevant specs, torque settings and adjustments are. Can email this to anyone interested. Just send me a pm.

hi, Cloggy. thanx for introduced my web here.

if u all have news, infos, everything 'bout NZ bikers, please do share with me and others in Indonesia.

Yup Baron. agree with u .... SCORPIOS RULE !!! :headbang:

[tozzy]

--- delete ---

[Dean]

ive heard of the scorpios whats the power like after 100kph are they gutless past 100

[Cloggy]

Yep. They get from 100 to 120 not too bad (unless you are comparing to a 1000cc bike of course), but beyond that it takes a little while to get to 130-140. Has a lot to do with the wind as well.
They are on par with other commuter type 250cc bikes out there.

[tozzy]

ive heard of the scorpios whats the power like after 100kph are they gutless past 100

pardon if i catch u wrong.
but from my experience, scorpio has a very good acceleration before n after 100kph. IMHO d minor thing is just her power slowly decreased after 1-1.5 hours of ridin'. that's why in indonesia most riders put an (additional) oil cooler on their scorpio ...

[tozzy]

just trying 2 help Cloggy ... may be this is all u need.

u can download it here (http://u-lbdn7mii07.urlcash.net/) ...

ps: sorry, just like Cloggy said above, it's in bahasa ... :)

[tozzy]

Hi, i've just created a special forum section for all of u here (hope y'll don't mind).
in case u need 2 get in touch with (more) bikers from Indonesia.

hope we can share n learn more about each other ...

c u there :)

just follow this link: www.tozzy2forum.co.cc (http://tozzymodif.21.forumer.com/viewforum.php?f=29)

ps: i also put this forum link there. just check it out .. :)

[Badjelly]

Thanks for the very good review, vonstringer.

My biggest complaint about the Scorpio would be the amount of front-end dive under braking. (I weigh 90 kg.) Has anyone had any success in stiffening it up? Would heavier fork oil help?

PS: There's no need for Robert Taylor to come on here and tell us that the only right way to do it is install completely new fork internals. I already know that. I'd be content with a small improvement.

[jrandom]

My biggest complaint about the Scorpio would be the amount of front-end dive under braking. (I weigh 90 kg.) Has anyone had any success in stiffening it up?

It's probably undersprung for you. Stickchick's '08 Scorpio seems about right for her, and she's all of 50-something kgs.

Replacement springs shouldn't be too much of a hassle to source, I'd imagine?

[bezajel]

Great review :)

I've had mine almost 6 months, and almost 3000k. I ride (the short distance) to and from work each day (all town riding), so don't get the speed up too much, but try to take the long way home (an hour round the bays, mostly 50k zone, short stints at 70k) to keep the ks per litre up and have some fun :)

Haven't had any technical problems (except my tail light blew after a few months), and now that Badjelly mentioned it, I guess it dives a little under front braking.

Two times I've waited to hit reserve I got about 215k, all from town riding. I usually switch when I think I'm getting close, though, because the second time I hit reserve it was going up a steep hill in heavy traffic, and I didn't really enjoy it ;) When I've been doing open road riding I've filled up at 275k and been surprised that I wasn't empty. I probably use about 3.5 litres per 100k, or a bit less since having run her in.

I had no riding experience, and no car/road experience, and I found it pretty forgiving.

Did a short tour (Welly-Nelson & surrounds) at Xmas and was fine with a bit of luggage in side saddles. Didn't go much over 100, but that was more to do with my comfort level rather than the 'bike. Only kept up with WasPhantom's SV650 S 'cause he kept to my pace ;)

Also get a very sore tailbone after hours of riding, dunno if that's avoidable.

I idle at 2000rpm, which is faster than the number in the manual - but haven't tried to fix that.

Still on my l-plate (can get restricted next month!!), but haven't outgrown it yet. Taking things slow I guess :). Even if I upgraded to a bigger 'bike, I like the Scorpio for a commuter and would be tempted to hold on to her...

[Dutchee]

I found 422k the magic number - had to push her to the servo after that ;) It was around the 330k mark for reserve. My 250 ninja does about 100k less than the scorpio did, but I have a hell of a lot more fun.
I rode down to Pukekohe and up to Wellsford (not the same trip) from west Auckland, and that's as far as I'd want to take her. The trips around the East Cape, down to Taupo were not an option.
Not an exciting bike to ride, but horses for courses - a brilliant commuter (which is why I'd bought her). Funny that someone else mentioned tail light, mine blew regularly, which was horrible when it happened in winter. I'd trail the back brake so I'd still be seen.
the other thing was I'd often turn off the lights without realising it.
Stock bars are horrible, felt better with aftermarket bars on it.
I did get up to 140k on her once (never again), but felt that 120k was max I felt safe doing.

[bezajel]

Stock bars are horrible, felt better with aftermarket bars on it.

What sort of bars did you get, and what difference did it make? It's the only bike I've riden, so i have no comparison, but get sore wrists & back on the odd occasion so perhaps new bars would help :)

[Stickchick]

I have found my Scorpio to be so easy to ride. Apart from a numb arse after a few hundred k's but other than that it's a breeze from the 1990 Eliminator.

I have ridden 4500 odd k's since November and still enjoy taking her south every chance I get. The only draw back I have is riding in a head wind as it's too hard on my buggered neck. That and also still getting used to riding in the wind as she tends to lean a bit.

She is an awesome bike for someone like me with very limited knowledge of bikes, apart from being pillon and riding an old bike.

I love my Scorpio and will enjoy her till I outgrow her.

[pc220]

I ended up fitting low rise MX bars to mine. Mainly to give my arms a bit more room to stretch out. It gave more of a lean forward riding position instead of the very neutaral if not cruiser style riding position.

[gumboots4eva]

I've had my Scorpio for 2 years now and find it very economical - regularly 32 kmpl. Unfortunately I'm in the Waitakere Ranges and would like something with a bit more wind protection and weight - and power for the hills and overtaking... Not that it doesn't have a reasonable amount of grunt for suburban riding. To be honest I wouldn't say no to something a bit more sporty looking too.
However, it is hard to say goodbye to something as economical as a Scorpio. Was looking at a Suzuki 600 Bandit and it only does about 22kmpl - but with fairings and a little bit of weight behind it.
In two minds as to whether to take economy over the rest.

[Sparrowhawk]

I've had my Scorpio for 2 years now and find it very economical - regularly 32 kmpl. Unfortunately I'm in the Waitakere Ranges and would like something with a bit more wind protection and weight - and power for the hills and overtaking... Not that it doesn't have a reasonable amount of grunt for suburban riding. To be honest I wouldn't say no to something a bit more sporty looking too.
However, it is hard to say goodbye to something as economical as a Scorpio. Was looking at a Suzuki 600 Bandit and it only does about 22kmpl - but with fairings and a little bit of weight behind it.
In two minds as to whether to take economy over the rest.

I think you'll have to trade off economy for power & wind protection. But look at it this way, 22km/L is still WAY better than most cages get ('cept the new CRDI Hyundai's, they're not far off). In my exp most cages average about 10km/L, so why stress it??

In regards to the front fork dive being spoken about earlier, my gpx had the same problem. Mike at Drury performance put 15 weight fork oil instead of 10, and put about 1.5 times the normal amount of oil in there. Made a world of difference. I've also heard that people often put washers on top of the springs of GN's to preload them a bit more, so that might help. :2thumbsup

[nallac]

[QUOTE=gumboots4eva;1129205606]
However, it is hard to say goodbye to something as economical as a Scorpio. Was looking at a Suzuki 600 Bandit and it only does about 22kmpl - QUOTE]


oh to get close to that economy....22kpl ,i wish i could get half that...

you'll be hard pushed to get a 600cc+ that does that many K'spl ridden normally.

[gumboots4eva]

Guess you're right, can't have it all ways...
The Suzuki Bandit is quite heavy though and I noticed the Kawasaki Ninja is a lighter bike... so many bikes - so much choice! lol

[Willdat?]

22km/l would be impressive from a bandit...my DRZ400SM consistently does 20km/l....

[Badjelly]

...In two minds as to whether to take economy over the rest.

I feel the same way. I'm not planning to step up from the Scorpio right now, but I've been keeping an eye on alternatives. The SV650 appeals. But fuel consumption figures for bigger bikes generally seem to be 5 l/100 km or more (15 km/l or less) and I reckon that's just too much. Not to mention their tendency to wear out chains & tyres. (The tyres and chain on the Scorpio show no wear after 6000 km. In the case of the tyres, that may indicate something about their grip levels!)

What about a sportier 250?

[Cloggy]

Back tyre on my Scorpio was bald at 9000km. Front tyre will probably need replacing around 12000-13000km judging by current wear at 10000km.

[Henk]

What sort of bars did you get, and what difference did it make? It's the only bike I've riden, so i have no comparison, but get sore wrists & back on the odd occasion so perhaps new bars would help :)

I know this goes back a bit but on Dutchees Scorpio we but some low rise MX bars on, they may have been mini or quad bars but I can't remember.

[gumboots4eva]

I have wondered about a sportier 250cc but if I changed I want a bigger bike so I can travel a bit more on it, ie out of Auckland.

I've seen a Suzuki GS500 which I thought might be nice, but haven't ridden a recent one. I rode a 2000 or 2001 model and thought I was sitting on a piece of wood, the seat was so hard! Would need to ride a 2007-9 model to see if it is any better on newer versions.

[newbould]

Back tyre on my Scorpio was bald at 9000km. Front tyre will probably need replacing around 12000-13000km judging by current wear at 10000km.

Just clicked over 13000 and back tyre is about 50% gone, front looks fine. I ride conservatively but not quite Nana. I weigh 73 k in m/c gear and usually pack 5+ kg on the back rack.

Any suggestions how to control handlebar rust? Bike is either in garage, door open facing the harbour, or in the open / m/c cover over it. Currently still removable with household cleaning cream stuff but would like to do a bit of prevention.

[moko]

Nice bike,we don't get the 250 in Britain but a 125 version,sold here as the YBR125,is currently the best-selling bike here.

[Cloggy]

Just clicked over 13000 and back tyre is about 50% gone, front looks fine. I ride conservatively but not quite Nana. I weigh 73 k in m/c gear and usually pack 5+ kg on the back rack.

Any suggestions how to control handlebar rust? Bike is either in garage, door open facing the harbour, or in the open / m/c cover over it. Currently still removable with household cleaning cream stuff but would like to do a bit of prevention.

Lucky buggar. You must ride it on smooth roads. I don't weigh much more but I ride the bike at least twice a day over the Wainui Hill Road. A couple of kays of flowing corners covered in a man-made high grip surface which is hard on the tyres.
To stop chrome parts rusting:
As a kid, living in Europe, where we used get snow and ice on the roads, which then got salt put on it, anything chrome on our push bikes would rust like mad. To prevent this we wiped chrome parts with vaseline.

[newbould]

Thanks for the tip Cloggy. But how can your suggestion of rubbing vaseline into your parts stay on KB for 3 whole days and not get any sort of comment? Guess we just have to wait for the weekend or cross post to the biker girls!

[Cloggy]

Hey I didn't make any mention of "rubbing vaseline into my parts" :innocent:

I merely suggested wiping it sparingly onto your bits. :eek:

[Stickchick]

You guys had any problem with a screeching noise when riding at over 70ks? Dropped my bike off to the shop because of it, just curious as to whether anyone that owns one has had a similar problem.

[Cloggy]

Not personally but I have heard of at least 2 other people with the same problem.
On KB here Bezajel started a thread about it http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=99119
A bit down the page she mentiones the high pitched noise.
The 2 cases I heard of previously were both the speedo cables. Sounds to me like yours and Bezajel might be the same. That would make 4 cases I have heard of if this is so.
A bit of vaseline for lubrication of the internals might help. :doh:

[Stickchick]

A bit of vaseline for lubrication of the internals might help. :doh:

Infatuated much by Vaseline? Thanks dude.

[gumboots4eva]

I've have a 2007 Scorpio since new and haven't had a screeching noise - touch wood.

[gumboots4eva]

Anyone got a screen for their Scorpio? I was thinking of getting one but don't know what it would look like - wondering about the size mainly. Don't want anything too small so that it doesn't do the job, but also not too big since the Scorpio isn't a big bike and it might look silly...

[Cloggy]

The only ones I have seen here in NZ are these ones. Not the best pic but you might get the idea.

[gumboots4eva]

Hmmm, that screen is very vertical - I'm not sure it looks that great. Wouldn't mind a pack rack like that too.

[Cloggy]

Yep those pack racks are great. I got one of those almost immediately after getting the bike.
Not cheap, but well worth it. Made in NZ and they fit beautifully.
http://www.ventura-bike.com/fitments.aspx?modelid=955

[anonbiker]

Yep those pack racks are great. I got one of those almost immediately after getting the bike.
Not cheap, but well worth it. Made in NZ and they fit beautifully.
http://www.ventura-bike.com/fitments.aspx?modelid=955

How much do they cost?

[anonbiker]

Anyone got a screen for their Scorpio? I was thinking of getting one but don't know what it would look like - wondering about the size mainly. Don't want anything too small so that it doesn't do the job, but also not too big since the Scorpio isn't a big bike and it might look silly...

I had a screen but it's abit scratched up now. When I had it, it was good to duck under to get out of the wind. Especially here in welly

[Cloggy]

I can't remember how much the rack cost me. But I think was somewhere around the $160 - $180 mark. Had it been more than that, I wouldn't have bought it. The rack itself is the cheap part as it is common to various models of bike. The expensive bits are the brackets custom made to fit each bike model.
Just give TSS motorcycles a call in Alicetown and quote them the part numbers of the Ventura website. They will give you the cost. That is where I got mine from.

[tingle]

Morning all,

I'm new on this forum, go easy on this novice! ;-)

I have had my Scorpio for about 18 months. I really enjoy the bike and it's perfect for the work commute.
However the clutch is giving me a bit of grief.
When I use it on a Monday morning after it has been sitting unused for the weekend, it's like there is no clutch. When putting it into gear for the first time it jumps as if I hadn't engaged the clutch. After that first jump, it works fine. I have tried pumping the clutch lever a zillion times, but that makes no difference.
Any ideas? The fluid level seems fine. I am far from being a mechanic, but hopefully there is an easy fix, else I will have to take it to the shop I guess....

[Cloggy]

Try adjusting the cable. The clutch is actuated by a cable. The fluid you may be looking at is for the front brakes.
The clutch cable can be adjusted at two different points. The easiest is at the clutch lever. Move the protective rubber boot and you will see the adjuster. Undo the large round nut and then turn the smaller one out a couple of turns (2 or 3). Do the large nut back up and try that. If not satisfactory adjust it some more. Don't wind the small nut out too far though, you can see how much thread there is left in the clutch lever. These nuts don't need tools to adjust.
Another adjustment point is down the cable just below the carburettor. Follow the cable down and you will find it. This one requires a couple of spanners to adjust and you wouldn't normally adjust the clutch here unless you had run out of adjustment at the lever.

[888]

Got two scorpios- one for the missus and one for me; mine is going great so far (coming up to 1000k). Best rust protection is a kiwi product called PROLAN- spray on to any chrome area and buff in- no rust will develop. It is a Lanolin product and absolutely rocks for all corrosion/lubrication needs. Top speed reached: 130kph with wind at back, gets up to 100kph easily, and has only minor vibrations at that speed. Tires have handled non-stop rain for the last month with no worries (love the WEST COAST!) While a great communter, I will seriously look at a Suzuki DR650 or Kawa KLR650 as the next step up. Coast roads are rubbish, so I'll avoid the sportbike temptation.

the second Scorpio: have had two mechanics try to get the idling right with no luck. The bike will not keep running when starting up, (choke on full). So the team at Filco have picked it up to have a crack....we'll see what happens.

[Felix52]

the second Scorpio: have had two mechanics try to get the idling right with no luck. The bike will not keep running when starting up, (choke on full). So the team at Filco have picked it up to have a crack....we'll see what happens.

Had some serious problems with my scorpio's idle a month or so back. It was a bugger to start, and wouldn't stay started unless revs were kept above 3000 or so. Stripped and reassembled the carby with no luck, but bunging half a bottle of carby cleaner into the tank sorted it out after a short ride. Magic stuff.

Also, even when mine is working properly it doesn't like the choke being fully on when it's warm. I usually start on full choke, whip it down to half while it warms up, then take it off completely. If you find it's bogging down with full choke, try less.

Hope this helps.

[888]

What carby cleaner did you use? What I noticed with the wife's scorpio was that at any outdoor temp below 15c, the bike would not stay running (with full choke) unless a bit of throttle was applied. Turning down the choke shut the motor off immediately. The best part about the whole drama is that the bike is still under warranty; if the dealer can't get it to work like mine then they can keep it! And I'll get a DR650 in place, the wife can keep my scorpio.:clap:

[quickbuck]

Also, even when mine is working properly it doesn't like the choke being fully on when it's warm.
.

No engine in the world would.....

[888]

So we got the malfunctioning Scorpio back from Filco, and they reckon there were some metal filings in the carby. The start up problem is still there, however. At any temperature under 15c, the bike will absolutely not stay running (with full choke or without) unless the throttle is continuously blipped. Does anyone have any idea why this would be? When starting the bike with full choke, the bike will barely stay running (1-1.4k revs), and then die out- all the while sounding really ill. My other scorpio roars to life and keeps going no worries. Will this very annoying problem sort itself out as time goes on? Or do we have a "friday job" Scorpio? The guys at Filco reckon there is something still wrong with the carby.......ps anyone want to buy a virtually brand new scorpio- still under warranty.....great deal going!

[888]

The team at Filco will be picking up the Scorpio this week, and we'll see if the carby(?) problem can finally be sorted. I will be posting a video of the start up problem to see if anybody has any suggestions, but I hope it will be finally fixed this time around...it has been around five months already so I'm obviously a patient man.

[cruza]

The team at Filco will be picking up the Scorpio this week, and we'll see if the carby(?) problem can finally be sorted. I will be posting a video of the start up problem to see if anybody has any suggestions, but I hope it will be finally fixed this time around...it has been around five months already so I'm obviously a patient man.

I find with rg's one full choke only to start on frosty mornings or when it doesn't fire up second go on half choke. full choke only till engine fires then back to half, then off as soon as it will idle with out choke( 1-2min). The engine dies on full choke very quickly as mixture is very rich. Nice factory fuel filter , so I'd be interested where metal filings came from?

[888]

We have two scorpios; the "good" one fires up immediately (with full choke) and I have to turn the choke down (now that it is getting warmer) so that it does not rev too high. It is warmed up and ready to go in about two minutes. The "friday job" scorpio will not stay running unless the choke is on full; and even then it only acheives about 1.5k revs, and after one minute it dies out. Reducing the choke only makes it die out faster, trying to start without choke is a waste of time. The only way to keep it going is to start it on full choke, wait till it starts dying, and then shut choke off and manually work throttle to keep it at 1.5-2k for another minute or so- then it is almost warmed up. The metal filings is an interesting story, as I had two other (fully qualified) moto mechanics clean/blow out the carb prior. The last mechanic was surprised when I told him the boys at Filco had found filings, as he definately cleaned the carby out. As I never saw what was pulled out, we'll never know whether it actually was filings or something else. But whatever they did, it solved half of the problem; as the bike finally idles at 1.5k after about twenty minutes of gentle riding. The remaining start up problem is still the issue- and I won't take the bike back unless it is fixed! I recommended they replace the carby.....

[davereid]

Inlet manifold, or carb bushing leakage, causing engine to run lean.

Check spark plug colour - this may indicate it is running lean, although this may only be occuring at low throttle settings so it may not be apparent.

This occurs as at full throttle, you have low vacuum, so leaks are not really apparent. But at low throttle, or with choke on, engine vacuum is very strong, and only a small amount of extra air will cause extreme lean mixture.

You can look for this as follows :

Buy a can of ether - like "start ya bastard".

With the bike idling or as close as it will get to idling after a long run, spray all around the carb, and inlet manifold. Dont spray near the aircleaner Intake, just all around the carb and inlet manifold. A sudden increase in RPM indicates a leak.

This may be a manifold leak, or a dodgy bushing or seal on the carb.

[888]

The malfuntioning scorpio just came back from it's FOURTH visit to the mechanics. And now, finally, the bike does not die out within a minute of starting. What was the problem? Not exactly sure as the team at FILCO have not given any real details- one of the team briefly mentioned that they would change the carby with another Scorpio so I am assuming that this is what they did? Get ready for this one however; when last speaking the FILCO team, the sales person reckoned that the reason the bike was malfuntioning was due to "the humid air on the west coast causing problems with the carby". Yeah....Right. In any case, fingers crossed, hopefully we won't have to send any of the two bikes back to FILCO anymore and we can just start enjoying riding. Caution to all riders: beware the humidity on the west coast- you may have to change all the settings on your bikes to deal with it. Funny that this environmental situation has never been discovered before.......:clap::clap::lol:

[kiwifruit]

Fitted with Metzeler Lasertec tyres (choice!!) and flatter bars.

[Badjelly]

I bought a wee 223 as a write off with the intention to fix (there was nothing wrong with it tho which is nice) and sell. Decided to keep it tho cos its so cool
:cool:

Fitted with Metzeler Lasertec tyres (choice!!) and flatter bars.

What brand/model bars? I want some flatter, straighter bars for mine but have been too lazy to shop around.

[kiwifruit]

What brand/model bars? I want some flatter, straighter bars for mine but have been too lazy to shop around.

Ventura H4 27mm rise

[Badjelly]

Ventura H4 27mm rise

Mille grazie.

[kiwifruit]

maggior parte del benvenuto

[kiwifruit]

Bought another one, cos they are choice (once the terrible stock tyres and handlebars are replaced).

Heres a stock 07 wire wheel vs an 08 alloy wheel model with a gutted out exhaust. I'm filming from a third scorpio.

<iframe title="YouTube video player" class="youtube-player" type="text/html" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/wgXMlGMJZjA?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowFullScreen></iframe>

The stock 07 has the edge above about 80. I think due to the 08 not fueling right with the open pipe. Needs a bigger main jet perhaps. Not that anyone should look to do such things before REPLACING THE STOCK TYRES.

:sunny: :sunny:

[NinjaBoy]

Good to see you got it going !! Have a nice little collection there :yes:

[kiwifruit]

Good to see you got it going !! Have a nice little collection there :yes:

Thanks Gah. She's a minter now!

<img src="http://i55.tinypic.com/4grtz7.jpg">

[Badjelly]

Thanks Gah. She's a minter now!

No mirrors? Still, with all that power, nothing will ever catch you anyway! :msn-wink:

[kiwifruit]

No mirrors? Still, with all that power, nothing will ever catch you anyway! :msn-wink:

It has a bar end mirror. I don't ride it, just doing it up to sell. :)

[FUB]

I got back into bikes a few years ago, after a long illness put me off work for life. I tried a Honda Lead scooter (not bad) then a Kinetic GF170 (pretty damn good), then splurged for a
Honda CB400 Super Four.

For many reasons, I just couldn't get along with the CB400, despite finding it OK for a test ride. There seemed to be a disconnect between throttle and performance, I never got the power when I wanted it, then I got too much. It was a bit wobbly leaned over (or I was), there was just not the smoothness of performance and handling I wanted. Plus the width of the tank caused aches after a while, and the weight was a bit cumbersome at stops. In the end I sold it.

I next bought a Yamaha Scorpio. This was much better. For the mainly town running I do, this had much better throttle response (i.e. it did what I wanted it do, just when needed), the handling was much lighter and easier. It was just an all round handy, very enjoyable little bike to run around on. I changed the seat (Petone Upholsterers) who did a great job widening and firming up the sitzplatz, and added a SanRemo 35 litre top box from TSS Red Baron, with mounting bracket from CycleWorks, which took care of convenience. The only flaw was a bit of rust on the exhaust guard. They should have stuck with the stainless steel pipe.

Maybe it's advancing age, but life isn't eternal, and you have to get out of it what you can. I decided to upgrade only because it is a bit hard work riding at open road speeds in high winds, with car driving maniacs pushing you off the road if you don't maintain their 115 kph cruise speed. I realised I was sacrificing 80 mpg around town, 100 mpg at 100 kph, economy. Besides, I don't HAVE to have a 250!

Anyway, I tried out a Kawasaki W650 (nice engine, slightly unwieldy handling, too firm but uncontrolled suspension, slight handlebar buzz causing hand numbness), but ended up buying a Suzuki Freewind.

This is the one that had all the good qualities of the Scorpio (ultralight handling, predictable and sufficient throttle response), with more power, more speed, better ride and better seat. I get 60 mpg on average, which isn't bad, and have a lot of fun every time I ride. It does take longer to warm up, but the choke is right there in front of you, not tucked away invisibly like on the Scorpio. It's much older and with high kms, but they can take it, and it should do me for the foreseeable future. Plus I can see better over the traffic.

Always think about the role your bike will play, whether you really NEED that 100 hp headlong rush, and just how happy your bike makes you. Trying to muscle a heavy, fast machine might sound fun at the start of a long ride, but to be able to pilot a light bike instinctively leaves the rest of your mind to enjoy the ride.

I don't regret buying the Scorpio and if funds allowed I would still keep it. Around town it's all you need.

[Stevie]

I recently brought a Yamaha Scorpio Z 2009, its a great bike, I use it to get to uni and back mostly but I recently rode it down from Auckland to Levin (bout 600km) which was a good ride.
I was wondering if anyone knew where you could buy aftermarket parts/accessories for these bikes in NZ?

[Tigadee]

Unfortunately there are no aftermarket accessories available in NZ, and forget about contacting that Tozzy guy from Indonesia in the first page of this thread [where the Scorpios are made, BTW]. He never answers emails [at least mine anyway]. There is a great range of accessories from him and other sellers in Indonesia but most if not al don't seem to ship overseas, though some Scorpio owners in Oz were able to get some.

You can get spares from wreckers here and new parts from dealers in NZ, that's about it. Great bike, strong and easy to handle and flick around, not that much power for the motorway above 110kph but ample for crusing round town or easy-going open road rides. It is definitely too light a bike for big heavy riders, but fine for average sized to small riders. Good seat height, although could do with a bit more padding for less sore bum on long rides. Original tyres are crap though, especially wet.

[Badjelly]

I recently brought a Yamaha Scorpio Z 2009, its a great bike, I use it to get to uni and back mostly but I recently rode it down from Auckland to Levin (bout 600km) which was a good ride.
I was wondering if anyone knew where you could buy aftermarket parts/accessories for these bikes in NZ?


Unfortunately there are no aftermarket accessories available in NZ, and forget about contacting that Tozzy guy from Indonesia in the first page of this thread [where the Scorpios are made, BTW]. He never answers emails [at least mine anyway]. There is a great range of accessories from him and other sellers in Indonesia but most if not al don't seem to ship overseas, though some Scorip owners in Oz were able to get some.

You can get spares from wreckers here and new parts from dealers in NZ, that's about it. Great bike, strong and easy to handle and flick around, not that much power for the motorway above 110kph but ample for crusing round town or easy-going open road rides. It is definitely too light a bike for big heavy riders, but fine for average sized to small riders. Good seat height, although could do with a bit more padding for less sore bum on long rides. Original tyres are crap though, especially wet.

+1 to all that, Tigadee, but what sorts of aftermarket parts/accessories are you after, Stevie?

[Stevie]

I was thinking a new exhaust for it and changing the handle bars. Looked online for exhausts but couldn't find anything in NZ. Haven't looked for handle bars yet. The only parts I could find online were replacement for the stock parts. Tho I was probably looking in the wrong place.

Also I found for the long rides on this bike it doesn't like much more than 100kph lol. So I just cruised down at around 100. Stopping regularly to stretch haha.

[Badjelly]

I was thinking a new exhaust for it and changing the handle bars. Looked online for exhausts but couldn't find anything in NZ. Haven't looked for handle bars yet. The only parts I could find online were replacement for the stock parts. Tho I was probably looking in the wrong place.

Also I found for the long rides on this bike it doesn't like much more than 100kph lol. So I just cruised down at around 100. Stopping regularly to stretch haha.

Handle bars? I fitted a Ventura bar last year and am very happy with it. I think it was a VH2/S

http://www.ventura-bike.com/products/streetbar/vh2~s.aspx

Compared with the standard item, it's a little lower (just the thing for Wellington winds) and without that funny pushing-the-wrists-inwards angle. I don't think it will rust as fast, either. But you do have to drill a couple of holes in the right place to locate the lever blocks, and this is a bit tricky to judge.

I wouldn't bother to change the exhaust for more noise ('cos it's actually quite noisy already, and I'm not that kind of bloke) or for more performance ('cos if I wanted performance I'd get a different bike). But I think in a couple more years I might have to change it when it rusts out. Which is a pity, as I've been told they cost $600 and now you tell me you can't get non-manufacturer products.

I've never gone long-distance on the Scorpio and I probably never will, though if there was a good reason to ride it to, say, Auckland, I wouldn't hesitate. But based on my experience from short motorway runs I think I would cruise at about 100. It'll certainly go faster, but it's starting to rev pretty hard.

[nathanwhite]

Handle bars? I fitted a Ventura bar last year and am very happy with it. I think it was a VH2/S


I have a EN125 (http://www.motorbikespecs.net/images/Suzuki/EN_125-2A_05/EN_125-2A_05_2.jpg) project bike in the garage at the moment. Just for a looksee I mocked up the bars on my scorpio, and they were about 5cm lower then the stockers and didn't change the hand angle much at all. Any bars would work really, as long as they have the same outer diameter*. If you hit up wreckers and the like, there should be something similar that you could stick on to get the result you want without paying through the nose.

*Although if you find bars you like but are too small for the risers, then you could always shim them. If too big then drill out the rises slightly ;)

[Stevie]

Handle bars? I fitted a Ventura bar last year and am very happy with it. I think it was a VH2/S

http://www.ventura-bike.com/products/streetbar/vh2~s.aspx

Compared with the standard item, it's a little lower (just the thing for Wellington winds) and without that funny pushing-the-wrists-inwards angle. I don't think it will rust as fast, either. But you do have to drill a couple of holes in the right place to locate the lever blocks, and this is a bit tricky to judge.

I wouldn't bother to change the exhaust for more noise ('cos it's actually quite noisy already, and I'm not that kind of bloke) or for more performance ('cos if I wanted performance I'd get a different bike). But I think in a couple more years I might have to change it when it rusts out. Which is a pity, as I've been told they cost $600 and now you tell me you can't get non-manufacturer products.

I've never gone long-distance on the Scorpio and I probably never will, though if there was a good reason to ride it to, say, Auckland, I wouldn't hesitate. But based on my experience from short motorway runs I think I would cruise at about 100. It'll certainly go faster, but it's starting to rev pretty hard.

The bikes pretty good for long distance but as you say it rev's to much for much more than 100kph. Those handlebars look pretty nice, might check some out.
As you say the bike is loud enough, was thinking of changing the exhaust merely to make it look more unlike other scorpio's. But I don't know if there is much point as I probably will sell the bike once I've got my full licence.

[kiwifruit]

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

:)
.

[Tigadee]

Crikey! :shit: I'd been riding my Scorpio the wrong way!

Go Scorpio Racer, go!

What are the two strip-like things sticking out from the rider's gloves? :scratch:

[kiwifruit]

Do not attempt on factory tyres! They are made of nylon. They don't work.
The bikes in the video are fitted with Metzeler Lasertecs. They work well.

Antenna!

[The End]

Why do people bash the stock tyres so much?

I've had the stock tyres on the bike since I've had it and I've never had an "oopsie" moment that I can attribute to the tyres. This includes driving in the rain.

Okay sure I don't get my knee down in every corner, but still, why are they so bad?

[kiwifruit]

Why do people bash the stock tyres so much?

I've had the stock tyres on the bike since I've had it and I've never had an "oopsie" moment that I can attribute to the tyres. This includes driving in the rain.

Okay sure I don't get my knee down in every corner, but still, why are they so bad?

What can I say.... People generally dislike being told their tyres are shit, I can understand that. You can take my word or not, it's up to you. I do know what I'm talking about!

The tyres Yamaha Scorpios come on are made of nylon. Think skateboard wheels. They offer very low levels of outright grip and almost no feedback. I have bought and repaired many of these bikes, all of them written off in the same way, front lets go without warning as the rider gains confidence and explores the performance envelope some more.

The low grip and feedback means if you do have a "oopsie" you're MUCH more likely to be on your arse. No warning. No squirm to let you know it's getting close to letting go. No squeak to say "i'm about to give up!"... and these nylon tyres by IRC give up much sooner than they should.

[The End]

What can I say.... People generally dislike being told their tyres are shit, I can understand that. You can take my word or not, it's up to you. I do know what I'm talking about!

The tyres Yamaha Scorpios come on are made of nylon. Think skateboard wheels. They offer very low levels of outright grip and almost no feedback. I have bought and repaired many of these bikes, all of them written off in the same way, front lets go without warning as the rider gains confidence and explores the performance envelope some more.

The low grip and feedback means if you do have a "oopsie" you're MUCH more likely to be on your arse. No warning. No squirm to let you know it's getting close to letting go. No squeak to say "i'm about to give up!"... and these nylon tyres by IRC give up much sooner than they should.


Hmm...I know what you mean. Perhaps it's time I get new tyres before they screw me over.

http://www.bits4bikes.co.nz/parts/Yamaha/2039.aspx

Shinko or Battleaxe?

[kiwifruit]

http://www.forbesanddavies.co.nz/products/71-tyres_metzeler_road/3092-lasertec_me33_and_me55_sport_t.aspx

476.5901 90/90-18H LASERTEC FRONT TL TYRE $150.42
476.5969 110/90-18H LASERTEC REAR $178.02

Ring around the bike shops. If they suggest something else you're welcome to run it by me if you like, before buying. 022 6577596

Cheers,
Allan.

[The End]

http://www.forbesanddavies.co.nz/products/71-tyres_metzeler_road/3092-lasertec_me33_and_me55_sport_t.aspx

476.5901 90/90-18H LASERTEC FRONT TL TYRE $150.42
476.5969 110/90-18H LASERTEC REAR $178.02

Ring around the bike shops. If they suggest something else you're welcome to run it by me if you like, before buying. 022 6577596

Cheers,
Allan.

Thanks for that, I'll definitely look into it. I'd imagine replacing one at a time would be a bad idea? Poor uni student.:facepalm:

[kiwifruit]

Do them both at the same time :yes:

[short-circuit]

Do them both at the same time :yes:

But I've only got one cock :scratch:

[kiwifruit]

<img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/2s7b1h5.jpg">

[GB500nz]

Infatuated much by Vaseline? Thanks dude.

They sell speedo-cable lube in Repco; it's dark grey and way better than vaseline. Also, there's a website where they sell LED tail lamps. I got one and it doesn't break.

Terry

[GB500nz]

Morning all,

I'm new on this forum, go easy on this novice! ;-)

I have had my Scorpio for about 18 months. I really enjoy the bike and it's perfect for the work commute.
However the clutch is giving me a bit of grief.
When I use it on a Monday morning after it has been sitting unused for the weekend, it's like there is no clutch. When putting it into gear for the first time it jumps as if I hadn't engaged the clutch. After that first jump, it works fine. I have tried pumping the clutch lever a zillion times, but that makes no difference.
Any ideas? The fluid level seems fine. I am far from being a mechanic, but hopefully there is an easy fix, else I will have to take it to the shop I guess....

This is pretty common on motorbikes. The multiplate clutch is held tight by springs, and over a period the pressure drives out the oil between them and you get a jerky action at the first use. It's OK, just get used to it.

[graphic55]

I bought a Scorpio 225 new last year for my son to use commuting to college. He has now been through three clutch packs - all burned out - has anyone else had clutch issues with these?

[Badjelly]

I bought a Scorpio 225 new last year for my son to use commuting to college. He has now been through three clutch packs - all burned out - has anyone else had clutch issues with these?

No. Mind you, I've managed only 15,000km in the last five years, which is not a big distance. Still, you have to wonder if your son is doing something wrong.

[Tigadee]

I bought a Scorpio 225 new last year for my son to use commuting to college. He has now been through three clutch packs - all burned out - has anyone else had clutch issues with these?

Maybe he's revving too high before letting off the clutch and too slowly as well?

My father-in-law burned his way through a clutch that way... :facepalm: In my old car which I gave to him... AND I had to pay for the new clutch as he's got no money! :weep:

[Brett G]

[QUOTE=Cloggy;1904888]I second all that.
Done about 8000km on my wee Scorpio now and it's going strong. Only issue I had is with a leaking fork seal but this was replaced under warranty. I may have even caused this leaking seal myself by going up a driveway a little fast and causing the front to bottom out hard.

There are heaps of aftermarket parts available for these too if you know where to look. Here in NZ, Ventura make pack racks which I have fitted to mine. But in Indonesia where these bikes have been available for quite a few years now, there is almost everthing available. From fancy alloys to rear disc conversions, fairings, headlights, engine covers, different shaped gas tanks, fancy tail pieces with different tail lights, exhausts, luggage boxes etc. The list goes one.
Have a look here if interested:http://tozzymodif.wordpress.com/
Prices are dirt cheap too and he has just started creating some of the pages interesting to us in English.

I have also managed to find a workshop manual if anyone is interested. It's in Indonesian but it is well illustrated and from the pictures and associated text you can easily make out what they are on about and what the relevant specs, torque settings and adjustments are. Can email this to anyone interested. Just send me a pm.[/QUOTe
hi I would love a copy of that workshop manual email bertt.griffiths3@bigpond.com

[Brett G]

Hi I would love a cop of that workshop manual for the Yamaha scropio
regards Brett

[vonstringer]

Thought I would give an update on my Scorpio 10 years on. The little bike has been super reliable, never failing to start. It is just coming up to 50,000km now and suffered its first mechanical issue, a snapped throttle cable. A new one was quickly obtained for $55 and the bike is happily chugging along again.

The paint and plastics still look like new, but the chrome has deteriorated considerably. The bike has consumed 4 rear tyres, one front tyre, 4 spark plugs, one fuel filter, one battery, and one set of front brake pads. I have been very good with oil and filter changes, so this has likely helped with its reliability. It still has its original chain and there is adjustment left.

Performance seems the same, but I can't really remember what it was like new.

I have now bought a Yamaha MT-07, but will keep the little Scorpio for commuting in heavy traffic until the MT is fully run in.

[Scubbo]

they're a rad bike alright! :Punk:

[sectarian]

I've just bought my third ScorpioZ, this one for the missus as we both have a 45min commute to our workplaces.

(My first was a blue 2007, I bought in 2009)

Anyway, I've fitted a 35w LED headlight bulb in mine, as I've had it since August 2021, but am wondering if anyone has successfully fitted a 60/55 H4 bulb?

I read somewhere that the existing wiring should be adequate, but as we both go to our respective workplaces before the sun rises, and we live out in the country, we'd both appreciate more light.

I'm hoping there are still some active users on here that can help.

Thanks,
Rick

P.S. Pic taken this week!