50cc- TaoTao, Venom, etc...?

[natti]

Hey guys. I didn't make an introduction because I figured I'd just get right into it, but you might see me around this forum for a while. There seem to be some knowledgeable reviews and experienced china riders in here.

So, I'm thinking about purchasing a 50cc "moped" or super pocket bike, and was hoping to stay under $1500 give or take. I figured, why buy a plain old moped when I could get something a bit cooler that may be an interesting intro to long-term biking. I do know of some of the risks with ordering these bikes, such as broken parts upon arrival, waiting for new parts, having to install themselves, etc. I can easily follow instructions and so I'm hoping that I'd be able to figure issues out with youtube videos, etc.

I've been heavily considering two bikes from Venom Motorsports, the x18 and the x21:

x18
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0742/8739/products/1H6A7955_1024x1024.jpg?v=1495038017
Specs
Wheel base: 1302mm
Dry Weight: 250 Ibs.
Dimensions assembled: 73x24x36in (LxWxH)
Seat Height: 31 inches
Battery size: 12V/7AH
Gross Weight: 350 Ibs.
Weight Capacity: 200 Ibs.
Brake type: F/DISC, R/DRUM
Gear: CVT
Maximum Power: 2.20kw/8000r/min
Starting System: Electric / Kick
Tyre sizes: 130/60-12 - 120/60-12
Fuel tank capacity(L): 5.0
Engine type: 4 stroke,Single cylinder,air-forced cool
Maximum speed: 40+ MPH (may vary with rider weight, road condition and/or other factors)
+Ships fully assembled
$1599

x21
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0742/8739/products/df50srt-50cc-motorcycle-moped-scooter-gromwith-cvt-transmission-electric-start-fully-assembled-new-arrival-free-shipping_15_1024x1024.jpg?v=1502130186
Specs
12" Rims
Front: 120/70-12
Rear: 130/70-12
Electric Start
Handlebar Width: 28"
1 Seater
Top Speed 40mph (Depending on Rider Weight)
Front + Rear Hydraulic disc brakes
50cc Honda Based GY6 Four Stroke Motor
Left handgrip control: Hi-Lo beam switch, turn signal switch, horn switch
Right handgrip control: engine kill switch, light switch, electric start switch
Key Ignition
LED Turn Signal Lights & Brakes
Super Bright Halogen Headlights
Length: 65"
Width: 21"
Height: 38"
Seat Height: 32"
EPA, DOT, AND CARB APPROVED
$1599

It's a big plus that the first one says it ships fully assembled, although if it came down to quality I think I'd manage. Does anyone here see an obvious reason that one of these is better than the other?

Secondly, do you think someone with little knowledge of china bikes would have trouble dealing with any of the maintenance/learning curves of owning one of them?

Lastly, I was taking a look at the Taotao Racer 50. Does anyone have experience with these models, whether 50cc or with 125, etc?

Thanks guys, I'll be looking forward to discussing my progress. If I do decide to order one of these bikes, I'll be reporting my experience on here with hopes that someone else might benefit in the future from my review/buying experience.

By the way, Venom looks good to me because it seems that they are quick to deal with any issues that arise, even after you've received the bike (at least based on the research I've done). I'm open to recommendations to other reputable vendors as well.

[tortoise]

Speed expectations, Craigslist region?

[natti]

Speed expectations, Craigslist region?
So I'm near Atlanta, GA but in a smaller city area on the outskirts. Looking for something that can go 35-40. I definitely would prefer not to register/insure, which keeps me looking at these 50cc models.

By the way, also been looking at some of these from Ice Bear http://www.icebearatv.com/50cc%20Motorcycle

Ice Bear seems reputable as well, and since there are so many tutorials about Vaders, their 50cc EVADER may be nice/similar in comparison.

[tortoise]

I definitely would prefer not to register/insure, which keeps me looking at these 50cc models.

You WILL regret the 30-35mph (significantly slower up hills and into headwinds) speed limitations of a 50cc 4-stroke!

Research Znen 150's (https://www.bobcatsmotorsports.com/ZNEN_Scooters_s/295.htm) . . which are considered mid-tier on the quality scale (https://www.carolinafunmachines.com/buyers-guide).

[natti]

You WILL regret the 30-35mph (significantly slower up hills and into headwinds) speed limitations of a 50cc 4-stroke!

Research Znen 150's (https://www.bobcatsmotorsports.com/ZNEN_Scooters_s/295.htm) . . which are considered mid-tier on the quality scale (https://www.carolinafunmachines.com/buyers-guide).
So, here's the reason I've been focusing on the 50cc models. I actually initially started searching for an efficient electric commuter bike, with pedal assist. I am only looking for a bike to commute through the city, it is a 30-40 minute bike ride and about an hour walk.
I was turned off of the electric bike scene as any bikes that go past 18-20 mph tend to be in the $2-4 thousand range (for solid brand and long range). As long as its under 50cc, I wouldn't have to register/insure the 50cc bike where I live, or get a moped/motorcycle license. The other factor is that I also haven't acquired a motorcycle license, and the class itself would be $250-300 and would take a bit of time. All in all, I tested a $2600 eBike and thought that a super pocket bike would be cheaper (by about $1000, and $300 including the motorcycle course) and easier since it would take no effort once I received the bike (can ride with drivers license and no tags). Around where I am, 50ccs are seen all over the roads. I'm mainly getting it for easy commuting around town; parking can be scarce although moped/motorcycle spots tend to be abundant.

What exactly do you mean about regretting the speed limitations? I have noticed the scooters around town tend to slow down on the steep hills, but I'd be willing to deal with that. How much slower have you experienced, could they maintain say 15-25 going up a steep hill? If so, I could deal with that. I'll say none of the roads I plan to commute on should be over 35mph. Thanks for the advice, I don't mean to be stubborn. I realized I didn't walk you guys through my thought process on the 50cc, I realize that's a slightly uncommon choice, when higher cc china bikes are available for not too much more money.

Still willing to consider higher cc if you really think the benefits of a higher cc bike would outweigh the reasons I've brought up.

[cbrfxr67]

I think the guys are saying this but, I'll resay it that you will get tired of that 50cc pretty quick. I'd consider a 125 to actually enjoy it. I've had a handful of 50cc scooters and always wanted just a *tad* more, especially around cars on public roads. My .02

[culcune]

I think the guys are saying this but, I'll resay it that you will get tired of that 50cc pretty quick. I'd consider a 125 to actually enjoy it. I've had a handful of 50cc scooters and always wanted just a *tad* more, especially around cars on public roads. My .02

50cc might have something to do with licensing; as in no license or no motorcycle endorsement in Georgia.

I am biased, but my friend Alan is the general manager at Excalibur Motorsports who distribute TGB scooters. All of the US TGB scooters are 50cc two-stroke bikes which when derestricted run about 45 to 50 mph. TGBs are manufactured in Taiwan so are virtually indestructible when compared to mainland Chinese bikes. They do run over your budget, however. http://www.tgbscooters.us/ Call Alan at 909-591-8800 and see if you can work something out for all it's worth. Plus, Excalibur distribute Chinese product such as Taotao so might be able to get a deal on one of those for you.


That being said, I would suggest to join http://49ccscoot.proboards.com/ a group that discusses all brands of scooters. Great tips and bunch of scooter enthusiasts, with many running Chinese bikes

[Bruces]

A little off subject ,but I have a 2006 Yamaha bws 50 ,it has a 72cc cylinder kit that was $50.00 or so ,and it can more than handle itself in traffic .If you can find one they are very cheap (I paid $150.00 for mine ) and actually very good .It does great wheelies too .