Can I make my scooter go faster?

4-stroke engine. By their very nature, 2-stroke engines are much easier to modify for greater power and speed than are 4-stroke engines, though the basic concepts to increasing speed on any scooter are the same. Essentially, All scooters can be made to go faster. First, it's critical to know if your scooter has a 2-stroke or you need to improve fuel, air and exhaust flow. Further, many 50cc scooters (speed-restricted mopeds) can be de-restricted fairly easily also, allowing very noticeable increases in speed. It should also be noted here that typically performance kits void manufacturer warranties. They often also make reliable engines less trustworthy, usually in proportion to the extremeness of the modification. And lastly, if the increase is very large (as on 50cc models, for example), there will be serious issues as to whether the brake and suspension systems will still keep the rider safe at these new higher speeds.

Which model of scooter is best to buy?

A good older classic scooter is likely your best bet. However, if you simply want reliable transportation, a modern scooter may be a better choice, just because they tend to be newer usually. In most cases, larger capacity scooters are usually better than smaller ones.

What engine size do I need?

This depends entirely on what you'll be doing with the scooter. If you plan to do much highway driving, it will be highly desirable to buy the largest engine you can find -- at least 200cc. Around town, the engine may be smaller for most needs. Stock 50cc models really are only best if you will have minimal interaction with automobiles, as they typically have difficulty maintaining speeds much above 35mph, unless they have been modified to go faster. If you will carry passengers, weigh quite a bit or plan to ride up steep hills often, you will also want larger capacity, at least 70cc for around town. All scooter engines typically have a shorter lifespan when they are constantly run full throttle, so you should take this into account also. Lastly, it is always adviseable to have excess engine capacity to accellerate out of trouble and to pass safely. [7/99]

How do scooters differ from motorcycles?

By definition, motorcycles are nearly any two-wheeled, motorized vehicle. Therefore, scooters are by definition simply a specific motorcycle design. This is why in most localities, there are no regulations for scooters per se, and thus scooters fall either under moped regulations (assuming they meet the proper requirements to do so) or by default, they are legally treated as motorcycles. There are a few localities that have specific regulations for scooters, but as these are extremely uncommon and follow no real pattern, they are not covered here. The reason that scooters are commonly not treated as equals in motorcycle circles is simply because they generally are slower and not as performance-oriented as their larger cousins. So technically, all scooters are motorcycles, though usually only scooters that more closely resemble what are more commonly called motorcycles will be referred to as such.

What are the advantages of scooters?

Scooters originated very early on in the development of motorcycles generally to address problems that some felt were inherent to common motorcycle design. Foremost was covering of the engine compartment. This was done to avoid inadvertent contact with hot engine parts, which is a common concern for motorcyclists. This concern went further with the covering of the rest of the body, along with a front legshield, meant to protect the rider from mud, water and road debris that might drift up from the road below. The common step-thru design initially was so ladies could wear dresses without compromising their modesty, but it has come to be welcomed because it allows the rider to sit on the seat much like a chair, instead of straddling the vehicle, as is common on motorcycles. This tends to be a more comfortable riding position for the short distances that most scooters were designed to cover.

What are the advantages of scooters over automobiles?

Scooters as two-wheeled vehicles have all the obvious advantages over automobiles. This would include lower operating costs, as scooters are more fuel-efficient, require less insurance and usually cost less to maintain. They are also easier to park, maneuver in heavy traffic and to store. Scooters are typically much less expensive to purchase than automobiles, and arguably are much more fun to operate. Many who operate two-wheeled vehicles call automobiles

What are the advantages of scooters over motorcycles?

As noted elsewhere, scooters are actually just small motorcycles. However, there is still a clear distinction between scooters and the rest of the motorcycle family. Generally speaking, scooters have been designed purposely for those that are intimidated by motorcycles, on whatever level. Scooters are easier to learn to ride and often easier to operate.

What are the advantages of scooters over mopeds?

It has been noted elsewhere that many scooters are also legally considered mopeds. In all cases, this will mean they have engine sizes under 50cc. Traditionally, mopeds have typically had larger wheels and exposed engines, though obviously 50cc scooters would not have these attributes. The main advantage of the body panels is protection from the heat of the engine and exhaust. The smaller tires produce quicker handling response. And it's usually easier to change the tires on a scooter over a traditional moped, because many scooters have tires mounted on one side only, like auto tires. Of course, if the comparison is between a 50cc moped and a larger capacity scooter, the advantage of greater power will enable the rider to better maintain traffic speed and to stay out of trouble by accellerating out of it sometimes.

How do you make 2-stroke scooters go faster?

This is typically done by changing to a higher performance exhaust, larger cylinder and piston, larger carb with different jetting, lighter flywheel, water cooling, etc. The first place to start is nearly always the exhaust. Unlike 4-strokes, the exhaust system on 2-strokes is critical to their performance. Removing it will make the scooter sputter and run poorly, if at all. Shape is extremely critical and this will also change the sound (and loudness). The easiest thing is to replace the standard exhaust with a performance one, easily available for nearly any model scooter at any of the larger scooter shops around the world. The standard exhaust typically is a compromise between power and performance at various speeds. Performance exhausts will modify this, for example, by allowing a higher top speed, by sacrificing power at lower speeds.

How do you make 4-stroke scooters go faster?

Like a 2-stroke, volumetric efficiency is the critical aspect to increasing power on a 4-stroke engine. However, the mechanism to achieve the same goal differs. Anything that gets more air and fuel mixture into a motor makes the bang bigger and increases power. So longer cam duration sucks more mixture in, bigger carbs allow better flow, bigger/more valves increase flow, and larger header pipes increase flow (notice the pattern here). Turbos and superchargers do the same thing but they force more in. Nitrous oxide carries much more oxygen than air so by squirting in NOS and more fuel to go with it, again you get a bigger bang. The thing is they all tend to make more power, but further up the rev range (except supercharging and NOS injection), usually reducing power and torque down low, big bores are the only thing that doesnt do this. For further information on this subject, consult the books.

How long do the engines last?

A well cared-for scooter should be able to go about 25,000 miles before it needs a major rebuild. The 50cc two strokes work harder, so I'd think they should be overhauled by 15,000 miles. I have heard of some Helix's running over 100,000 miles.

What kind of transmission does it have and is it electric start?

It is pull start with a centrifugal clutch. The centrifugal clutch is the simplest, most economical way to soft start a motor or engine connected load, and apply full torque on a gradual basis. It will eliminate shock loading, and will protect the reducer, motor, and connected machinery in the event of overload or jam-up. The use of a centrifugal clutch may allow the selection of a smaller motor and/or reducer, thus saving space and money. The clutch is a natural for automatic standby in dual drive applications. A centrifugal clutch does not require outside assistance, such as reduced voltage starters, air, electric or hydraulics.

Are these scooters legal in my state?

The scooters sold on this site are legal in most states. Please check with your local DMV for state specific requirements such as registration, age requirements and helmet laws. In the state of California the gas scooters are sold as a racing vehicles only and as such can be used only at sanctioned racing events and practice.

Isn't the handling unstable?

They are not unstable, but it does take a little while to get used to riding a lightweight machine with small (10 inch) wheels. Then it's second nature. You do have to watch for potholes and large cracks in the pavement, but other than that you should not have any problems.

How long do the tires last?

About 4,000 miles for the rear and over double that for the front.

Can I upgrade my V3 scooter?

The only upgrade available for the V1,V2 and V3 is the addon filter kit.

What kind of maintenance do these gas powered scooters require?

Some basic maintenance is required. If riding regularly, it's a good idea to check all the bolts in the scooter every couple weeks (you can use the wrench provided in the toolkit if adjusting is needed). It's also a good idea to put some chain oil on the chain about once a month. Also, remember to always put the correct amount of 2-stroke oil in with the gas.

Aren't scooters slow?

Speed a problem?? Not for scooterists! If your scooter just doesn't quite fulfill your 'need for speed', there are after-market parts that can give your scooter the quickness you desire. There are 125cc scooters that are nimble in the city and legal on highways. There are also big 600cc and 650cc scoots that are fun for touring highways! There's a scooter out there for EVERYONE.

How reliable is my scooter?

If properly maintained and not abused, they will last a long time, and provide a reliable and faithful ride. Maintenance is pretty straightforward. In general, the Japanese scooters (and most of their motorcycles) are very reliable. That is how they got their great reputation.

What should I do before riding my gas scooter?

First make sure that all screws on the scooter are tightened. They sometimes become loose during shipping. Next, apply chain oil to both the primary and secondary chains. Lubricate the chains before you ride the scooter for the first time each day, after every hour of use, and before you put it away at the end of the day. This will ensure your chains do not stretch or break. Use a 25:1 gas to oil ratio, with regular unleaded gasoline and 2 stroke oil.

Don't the small wheels on scooters make them unsafe?

The answer very simply is a loud NO! Contrary to common myth, the smaller wheels on scooters do not make them noticeably less safe and an argument can be made that this very trait makes them *safer* than their larger-wheeled cousins. Smaller wheels result in greater handling responsiveness, which can keep the scooterist out of trouble more readily. Scooters simply manuever more easily than motorcycles generally. While it's true that smaller wheels are more vulnerable to getting caught by large potholes, you should also know that those same smaller wheels result in more lower end torque, which will more readily pull you out of that same pothole. This is why a scooter of the same engine size can often outperform a motorcycle from a dead start.

Which Scooter is BEST for my child?

For kids between 8-12, we recommend the AS-123 Hurricane and the AS-128 Windjammer. For kids 10 and up, the AS 440 Asteroid and the AS-200 GT 200, as well as the AS-255 Trailz are the most popular.The best scooter on the market at the mid level price range is the AS-440 Asteroid and the AS-255 Trailz GT. They are also used by adults to cruise the neighborhood or to commute to work. For seniors or slightly disabled adults, we recommend the AS-460 Citybig and the AS-500 Ultra Glider.

How many people can ride on the scooter?

Only one person should ride on all of our scooters, except that two light people may ride on Moped Scooters. Just keep in mind that the maximum load weight for both mopeds is 280 lbs.

How hard is it to assemble my new scooter?

All of our scooters are shipped 99% assembled and with clear instructions to make assembly as easy as possible. Most scooters can be assembled relatively quickly with basic tools. Plus, some of our scooters come with FREE tool kits to make assembly even easier.

What is the difference between chain-driven and belt-driven transmission?

Chain-driven transmission is more rugged than traditional belt-driven transmission, so it can handle all terrain scooter riding.

What is the difference between a gas scooter and a gas powerboard?

A gas powerboard has a wider deck and a lighter frame than a regular gas scooter in order to be used for racing and trick riding.

Do I need to mix my own oil and gas to fuel the gas scooters?

You will need to mix unleaded gasoline and two cycle oil in a 25:1 to fuel the gas scooters and powerboards offered on this site. However, the two stroke gas engines in our gas mopeds automatically mix the oil and fuel for you. Just fill up your tank with the amount of unleaded fuel and 2-stroke engine oil indicated in your scooter manual.

Is there organized scooter racing?

Nearly from their origin, scooters have been raced much like motorcycles. Organized scooter racing of Vespa and Lambretta scooters occurs in England, Italy and California. Honda, Yamaha and other modern scooters are regularly raced in Japan, Hawaii and all over Europe. There is regular motocross racing in Italy called

What is the minimum engine size needed for highways in the USA?

Contrary to popular belief, there is no one single standard that governs all federal interstate highways as to minimum speed. Nearly all speed regulation in the USA is done by individual state authorities, and thus there are 50 different answers to this question. In general, you must have at least a 150cc engine to operate on any major highway in the USA, along with the ability to not impede traffic, no matter how fast a speed that may require. In most cases, it's highly advisible to have at least 200cc for any highway driving at all and preferably more.