Honda Elite 80, Ruckus, or Yamaha Zuma?
mistyrivr
I didn't have much time to ride, and gave it up for over a decade.The
kids are bigger now, and this mom is itching to get back on two
wheels-but would prefer the scooter route to purchasing another
motorcycle.
I frequently drive on roads where average speeds are 40-45, and would
like to keep up with traffic safely. I weigh 135lbs. It doesn't matter
to me if the scooter is over 50cc, as I have a motorcycle liscence,
and don't mind "plating" and insuring whatever scooter I decide on.
I have done alot of research, and am down to 3 likely candidates, (but
am open to sugestions...)
1. Honda Ruckus. I LOVE the look of this scooter. My husband is a
motorcycle machinist, and prefers 4-strokes to 2-stroke engines.
However-this particular model doesn't seem to have any room for
"upgrades"-and I would hate to spend money on a scoot, and be stuck
with a lack of speed, and no way to upgrade the performance. This
model doesn't seem to have much of an upgrade path. I have read many
reviews by Ruckus owners, and they seem to LOVE their scoots-with the
"lack of speed" being a consistent complaint. The ability to go
off-road occasionally is a plus though.
2. Honda Elite 80cc. Seems to be the "logical" choice speed wise. My
husband swears by Honda, and likes the fact that this model also has a
4-stroke engine, and easy access to parts. Only Problem-I don't care
for the "look" of this scoot one bit.
3. Yamaha Zuma 50cc. LOVE the design of this scoot. PLENTY of ways to
upgrade the engine down the line, and decent speeds right off the
showroom floor-(I've read consistent 40MPH ratings from owners.)Zuma
owners seem QUITE HAPPY with their scoots. I have a husband who is
quite capable of adding any upgrades I may want in the future, and
based on my research-it seems this scoot can be upgraded to 45-55MPH
with a few hundred dollars (after the warranty expires of course...).
I would love to hear from folks who have owned any of these scoots. I
also just recently discovered the Derby Atlantis-but haven't had time
to research it much yet. Seems like a hot scoot right "out of the
box"-but I am concerned about tracking down parts for this scoot in
the future. With a Yamaha or Honda-that's not likely to be a problem,
as there are numerous dealerships all within 20-25 miles of my home.
I would appreciate any input this list could give me in order to help
me make a wise decision.
Thanks!
Misty Rivr
meman
and it has some mods out there.
I've never owned a serious motorcycle but 4x4 truck's rather...so excuse
this limited opinion. I like Honda as well.
I bought a used 85 Honda CH150 (very used) and a used Honda Aero 125
2-stroke for the wife both for about $650.00. Loved the fact a total
beginner could learn to fix them up and having them run tip top. The aero
needed a major restore but I dove in and all went well (love the smell of a
2-stoke too ;)
The ch150 hits at 65+ now and the aero 125 hits at about 55-58mph tops.
They're really fun scoots.
See pics and restore history here:
http://home.comcast.net/~joedoria/MyScooters.htm
Now although I kinda like the look of the ch150 (looks like an old
retro\60's disney space ride), the elite 80 has kind of the same look, and
if you don't dig it - you don't dig it (I can certainly understand that -
either you like that wierd look or you don't). There are a lot of elite
80's (110mpg and hits about 40-45mph) out there on the road though as well
as many new pastel vespa models.
Wondering why you not considering the vespas, etc?
The vespa models are ridiculously priced so personally I said "screw them"
and won't be looking further until they come back to earth. The vespa look
is a bit overplayed now too (too many have them now), but that's just me.
I don't really like the look of the ruckus, but you say you do so cool. I
was just was riding with one today in fact. I just think you're going to
want\need a bit more more speed\power as time goes by if you bought either
of these three choices. I've been looking for people writing in on mods for
the ruckus, but that has been slim.
But before you dive into anything new, have you taken a look at the people
150? An older Yamaha 180 that can be revived? An older Honda CH250? (I want
a ch250 ;), Or a used or new Helix? (see also "IBA" helix clone scooter as
well).
I think they offer the bit more power you might want and offer 3 different
looks and still have that "scooter" feel to it.
I'm a firm believer in considering any used scoots at this point.
Then there's the other side - the burgman 400\600's , Honda reflex, etc.
But now you're exiting that "scooter feel and going for that lite "cruiser"
motorcycle in my opinion. Lotta beef and weight, handles like a motorcycle
moreso than a scoot from what dealers and riders tell me.
They sure look good to me though...but a hefty pricetag come with them.
Anyway, I guess 'm replying to not shy away from looking at any used scoots
out there that offer the best of both worlds (bit more power and keep with
the scooter feel).
USED: Look into the Helix, the ch250, the yamaha 180, FES 250 Foresight, and
I'm sure other more seasoned will ad to this list.
GL,
JD
"mistyrivr" <mist...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:187505a6.04041...@posting.google.com...
texdays
for a few hundred dollars more, you can get the yamaha 125 that just came
out
mike
> I didn't have much time to ride, and gave it up for over a decade.The
> kids are bigger now, and this mom is itching to get back on two
> wheels-but would prefer the scooter route to purchasing another
> motorcycle.
>
> I frequently drive on roads where average speeds are 40-45, and would
> like to keep up with traffic safely. I weigh 135lbs. It doesn't matter
> to me if the scooter is over 50cc, as I have a motorcycle liscence,
> and don't mind "plating" and insuring whatever scooter I decide on.
>
> I have done alot of research, and am down to 3 likely candidates, (but
> am open to sugestions...)
>
> 1. Honda Ruckus. I LOVE the look of this scooter. My husband is a
> motorcycle machinist, and prefers 4-strokes to 2-stroke engines.
> However-this particular model doesn't seem to have any room for
> "upgrades"-and I would hate to spend money on a scoot, and be stuck
> with a lack of speed, and no way to upgrade the performance. This
> model doesn't seem to have much of an upgrade path. I have read many
> reviews by Ruckus owners, and they seem to LOVE their scoots-with the
> "lack of speed" being a consistent complaint. The ability to go
> off-road occasionally is a plus though.
its a dog, speed-wise. i like the look too, and supposedly they have a 250cc
prototype model. even 150ccs would be ok far as im concerned.
>
> 2. Honda Elite 80cc. Seems to be the "logical" choice speed wise. My
> husband swears by Honda, and likes the fact that this model also has a
> 4-stroke engine, and easy access to parts. Only Problem-I don't care
> for the "look" of this scoot one bit.
designed 20 years ago, and it shows. but... the basic mechanicals are great,
and the top speed is adequate. ive owned 2.
>
> 3. Yamaha Zuma 50cc. LOVE the design of this scoot. PLENTY of ways to
> upgrade the engine down the line, and decent speeds right off the
> showroom floor-(I've read consistent 40MPH ratings from owners.)Zuma
> owners seem QUITE HAPPY with their scoots. I have a husband who is
> quite capable of adding any upgrades I may want in the future, and
> based on my research-it seems this scoot can be upgraded to 45-55MPH
> with a few hundred dollars (after the warranty expires of course...).
>
> I would love to hear from folks who have owned any of these scoots. I
> also just recently discovered the Derby Atlantis-but haven't had time
> to research it much yet. Seems like a hot scoot right "out of the
> box"-but I am concerned about tracking down parts for this scoot in
> the future. With a Yamaha or Honda-that's not likely to be a problem,
> as there are numerous dealerships all within 20-25 miles of my home.
>
> I would appreciate any input this list could give me in order to help
> me make a wise decision.
what about a used helix? ive had 2 and theyre bulletproof.
for what its worth, i love my burgman 400. might be too big, too sporty, too
expensive, but if you want to go 2-up or take longer rides, its interstate
friendly and there are a few hop-up parts available for it.
Geoff
I would consider the Zuma or Derbi your best choice, of the four. The
Ruckus 'looks' fun...but the 4 stroke 50cc engine isn't going to be
enough in 40-45mph traffic. You'll get run over.
The Elite will probably have enough 'oomph' for ya, but it IS ugly
(sorry Elite owners, just my humble opinion)
The Zuma is a 2 stroke and should be fine in 40-45 mph traffic.
The new Derbi Atlantis' have 50cc Piaggio engine and transmissions.
They are of great quality. The underseat storage space will hold a
full face helmet. And there is a plethora of upgrade options if you
get bored. Out of the box at sea level the Derbi will probably do
around 50-53 mph.
I believe the Zuma has alot that can be tuned on it as well.
If it comes down to the Derbi and Zuma, and under seat storage is
irrelevant, I would say, compare price, warranty, and shop
credibility. Your husband may be able to work on it, but as long as
it's under warranty the shop should do it. They 'should' be skilled
in servicing and know the scooter's nuances. After the warranty
expires, let your husband turn it into a 90 mph beast.
But my suggestion would be to take into account A) the shops
reputation for service and B) the shops distance from your residence.
If it breaks down, you'll need to haul it in. If you've got a pickup
truck or something that has no problem shlepping the scooter across
town, then an extra 15 miles for a reputable/better dealeris worth it.
If you're going to have to PAY to have it taken there, then consider
that.
Keep in mind alot of dealers do have a 'breakdown' policy where they
will come pick you and your scoot up in the event you're
stranded...look into that as maybe part of a bargaining tool.
mist...@hotmail.com (mistyrivr) wrote in message news:<187505a6.04041...@posting.google.com>...
mistyrivr
Looks like you did a nice job on those old scoots. I did look at a
used Yamaha Riva 125. I'm not afraid to buy used, with a husband who
works in a motorcycle shop and all-he could certainly repair or update
anything we can get parts for.
tex-Actually-A Vino 125 was my first choice-clean 4 stroke engine, and
enough power to more than meet my need for a decent scoot, but NONE of
the dealers I called have one. (I called 4). There are a few more
dealers I can check-but from what they told me-they are very hard to
get this year for some reason. I can order one off of the net I
think-but I don't want to buy one without looking at it first. Perhaps
I would be better off to wait until I can find one, rather than buy
something I will have to upgrade, and ending up spending the same
money by the time I'm done. Patience is a virtue. :-)
mike-the burgman is a nice looking machine-but maybe a bit large for
me. what cc's are the helix? I have checked the classified ads in the
newspaper-and haven't seen any local scoots for sale. Perhaps I should
check the "want-ads". I don't want to buy used on ebay, again-I would
like my husband to be able to thoroughly check out any used scoot I
may consider.
My husband mentioned something about "jetting the carbs" of the
Ruckus. He said he could likely squeeze a few more MPH out of the
Honda using the stock parts. He said most bikes off the floor run too
lean. A local dealer has a left over 2003 we can buy for a decent
price. Too bad they didn't make a 80cc Ruckus. :(
Thanks for all the responses.
don-ohio
geoff11...@yahoo.com (Geoff) wrote in message news:<bb0c7193.0404...@posting.google.com>...
mistyrivr
Funny you should mention that. I scoured the classifieds, and found
two used Aprilia. New they are out of my price range...but I found a
2003 Aprilia Scarabeo with only 1300 miles, and a used Aprilia 2001
SR50 with over 3,000 miles. Both in the same price range. I looked up
the Scarabeo, and am "unsure" of the Ditech motor as it seems pretty
new. The 2001 is REAL sporty looking, and the owner is willing ot alk
on price. I could probably pick that up for less than the cost of
either the Ruckus or Zuma new. The 2003 is also seeling for less than
2,000 grand-which is where I am trying to keep the cost.
My husband says the Aprilia is a reputable company-well known for
great engines.
mistyrivr
I priced the Derbi, and it's a bit pricey. Good point about dealer
service, at least while under warranty. My husband said he is quite
confident he could help the Ruckus gain enough speed to tyravel safely
with the traffic-he said after the warranty period he could likely
find a bigger piston that was a close fit-bore out the head, jet the
carb, (he has made jets for motorcycles before-so even if he couldn't
find one to fit-he could machine one), and put the bike on some
machine he has at work that "snifs" the bike to fine tune it. (He
would REALLY prefer to see me get a 4-stroke.....)
mike
sounds to me like he wants to tinker with a 4 stroke ;)
all well and good, and if he can custom fab some go-fast parts that work,
theres a market for it. my question is... whatcha gonna be riding when hes
got your motor torn apart to do all the tinkering?
Geoff
Well, if he doesn't mind spending the time and engery tuning it out,
and you really like it, then I would say go for it. But still, even
modifying it, it's going to be alot slower than than a 2 stroke. I
would go test drive one first, and you'll see what I mean.
Also, with the ruckus you have some space under the seat, but you'll
have to rig a net or something for it to become usable.
I would go out to a Ruckus group on yahoo (im sure there's one) and
ask them what they think. And see what, if any, mods people have done.
I would bet it's fairly limited. Because even boring out the pistons,
it has the electronic CDI to contend with, which he wont be able to
adjust. I dont know if there are any aftermarket CDI's out there that
will help. He could wind up hurting the engine more then helping by
trying to bore it out.
The other thing is, if your hubby is willing to put that kind of time
and engery into modding a 4 stroke to try to make it 'road worthy',
think of what the results would be if he did some work to a 2 stroke?
The 2 strokes have pre-made kits that are basically 'plug and play'
where he could probably fix you up in no time at all. And with the 2
stroke, you wouldn't need any mods right away. You will want the
Ruckus modified right away, and that'll void the warranty.
To be as polite as possible, the scooters aren't motorcycles. And 2
stroke scooters aren't lawnmowers. Current 2 stroke engines are made
to better tolerances and quality than the old chainsaws and
lawnmowers. They require better oil and last much longer. He's
probably concerned about reliability and wear. I have a 2 stroke that
now has 4500 miles on a 70cc cylinder and no sign of problems. There
is evdience of a gal on another board that drove her 70cc 2 stroke
from Texas to California and 10,000 miles total and it ran fine.
My best suggestion would be to go test ride...but take the scooters on
roads similar to those you will be riding everyday on. Dont just buzz
around the parking lot. If the ruckus gives you enough oomph, and can
keep up with traffic, without any mods, and you're flexible on
underseat storage, then go for it! Just remember, you can't mod the
thing until the warranty runs out...or you'll be eating any
maintanence costs.
Hope this helps a little...
mistyrivr
>
> all well and good, and if he can custom fab some go-fast parts that work,
> theres a market for it. my question is... whatcha gonna be riding when hes
> got your motor torn apart to do all the tinkering?
Why his Honda 919 of course! :-)
Actually-I took him today to look at the Zuma, and he WAS impressed
with how much it had to offer in comparison with the Ruckus, for
pretty much the same money. (disk brakes...storage space...more speed
stock). On the way home he was saying: "Welll...you know-2 stroke
engines ARE easier to work on than 4 stroke ones....." :-)
Bottom line: whatever I buy, he is going to want to "tinker with it",
and I'll end up with a decent machine by the time he is done.
Question for the Elite Owners: What kind of speeds does that motor
give you stock?
Navy Kurt
> upgrade the engine down the line, and decent speeds right off the
> showroom floor-(I've read consistent 40MPH ratings from owners.)Zuma
> owners seem QUITE HAPPY with their scoots. I have a husband who is
> quite capable of adding any upgrades I may want in the future, and
> based on my research-it seems this scoot can be upgraded to 45-55MPH
> with a few hundred dollars (after the warranty expires of course...).
with a 70cc bore kit, new rollers, bearings and exhaust you'd be in
the 70 mph ball park.....well 65ish. you could pop wheelies for sure.
Geoff
LOL...sounds like you need TWO scooters...one for you and one for him to play with!
mike
> > sounds to me like he wants to tinker with a 4 stroke ;)
> >
> > all well and good, and if he can custom fab some go-fast parts that
work,
> > theres a market for it. my question is... whatcha gonna be riding when
hes
> > got your motor torn apart to do all the tinkering?
>
> Why his Honda 919 of course! :-)
>
> Actually-I took him today to look at the Zuma, and he WAS impressed
> with how much it had to offer in comparison with the Ruckus, for
> pretty much the same money. (disk brakes...storage space...more speed
> stock). On the way home he was saying: "Welll...you know-2 stroke
> engines ARE easier to work on than 4 stroke ones....." :-)
and theres a ton o stuff available for em.
>
> Bottom line: whatever I buy, he is going to want to "tinker with it",
> and I'll end up with a decent machine by the time he is done.
>
> Question for the Elite Owners: What kind of speeds does that motor
> give you stock?
the 80 tops out around 42-45 max.
150 tops out around 65 max
250/helix top out around 72-75
mistyrivr
making my decisions to hear all of your opinions. Seems the 2-stroke
is the best choice, and with a husband who could modify it easily, if
it doesn't meet my need for traveling in the suburban traffic safely
stock, I will have the option to upgrade it post warranty.
The ZUMA it is! My husband is more comfortable with it after seeing it
himself, and he told me to go ahead and buy whatever I wanted.
Now, if this list wouldn't mind one more question:
Would it be better to register it as a "moped" or a "motorcycle"?
According to my state laws, I could likely "squeek" by with a moped
sticker, (though you are only supposed to operate it at no more than
25MPH), which would allow me the option of riding in the bicycle lane
if the traffic is moving faster then I can safely mix in with with a
stock scoot. If I plate it-I can't ride in the bicycle lane legally,
and will have to stay in the road.
Thanks again everyone for all your help.
Mistyrivr
Charles Pisano
your own question anyway. You have more options as a moped. You're not
going on the freeway anyway. As a ped you can park and drive it in more
places a MC can't. Insurance is cheaper and may not be necessary at
all.
But I recommend the Aprilla Mojito 50 in purple even. $1995 and it
looks better (to me) in the retro style.
CP
Bryce Ludwig
news:187505a6.04041...@posting.google.com:
I'd go with the moped registration. Police tend to be a bit hazy on
what a moped is legally anyhow. Also, I've never heard of anyone
getting pulled over on a moped/scooter for exceeding the 25-30mph limit
on mopeds, if they aren't going above the posted speed limit. I think
that from a distance a cop isn't going to know if it is a 50 and
registered as a moped, or a 51+cc model and registered as a motorcycle.
As long as you are behaving legally, you aren't likely to have problems.
--
Ciao,
Bryce Ludwig
2003 Peugeot Looxor 150
Fred Flintstone
registration required. Although you are supposed to be 16 years old to
ride one, its not really enforced, if you ride responsibly. Insurance is
a good idea in case someone decides they like your scooter more than you
do.