I had the the pleasure of meeting Unkie Phil a few weeks ago when I was in Cleveland. He is the real deal! A walking encyclopedia of helpful knowledge and an avid scooterist! Only wish he had a store in NYC....
This video is super helpful. I bought one scooter on line about 5/6 years ago. They dropped it off in a crate on my driveway. It took me a long time to put it together and I’m mechanically challenged. I had to even put the acid in the dang battery myself. It lasted me a month in a half and I paid $1200 at that time for it. One problem after another so I sold it to a guy who owned some scooters for $900. I only lost $300 but the joy I had on it for that 6 weeks was priceless. Not even two weeks later the guy had fixed it up and was buzzing all around town with it. Everything this man says in this video is spot on and worth the advice. I just wish his business was close by because I wouldn’t think twice about buying one from him, and I’m most definitely in the market for a good one.
Wow, I have had more than 20 motorcycles, but at age 74 thinking about making the switch. This is a great video, especially for anew rider. If I was close to this dealer I would buy from them. Thanks a ton!
hondas your best bet if you want a 50 cc things are bullet proof i got my ruckus back in 2015 put 15000 miles on got t boned by a suv thing still fires first crank and keeps on going
A Genuine Buddy 50 (49cc) Scooter (Taiwanese made) does over 45 mph all day long. Picked up a 2015 for $450 on craigslist that wouldn't run. Replaced the carb and it runs flawless now. So it can be done.
I bought a couple Honda Metropolitans 49cc. They are sooooooo easy to work on! They are both 2009 models so both go a bit over 45 m.p.h. Not bad but they really slow down on the hills. On an island they are perfect. Honda has detuned the Metropolitans after 2009. Now, you are lucky to get slightly over 35 m.p.h. with them in their stock form.
Thanks for the videos. Retirement from teaching was coming up. I'm Italian, my last name is Ferraro, close to Ferrari. I decided that I didn't care what it cost, I was getting the biggest Vespa, so I got a 2017 300GTSie..... in Ferrari RED. Tall windshield, lower crash bars, front folding rack, complete LED headlight replacement with LED optics, Extra LED light in the horn cover so I don't look like a one eyed car, floorboard cover, top case, alarm that pages my key fob within 700 feet and...... most fun of all, an AIR HORN. Yes, it was pricey, but it was what I wanted. I got it from Vespa of Portland.
Really good advice. I went from a Kymco before the Vespa. Ride for awhile then decide what you really need. My Vespa GTS goes fast enough for the highway. The Kymco was perfect for around town or backroads.
The vintage option is spot on. I bought a vespa TX 200 its 1988 spent a lot of money getting it road worthy the main engine seal was gone needed a new top end new carb. Its a hobby bike so i wasnt depending on it but some mechanical knowledge is vital to own one.
"How to buy your first scooter" Me, all excited because I'm getting ready to purchase my first 50cc motor scooter. Literally 1 minute later: "We're not even going to talk about 50cc scooters." :( In Florida, you don't need a motorcycle license for anything under 50cc. And you're not required to keep insurance in order to ride it on the roads. Hence, the reason I want a 50cc. I live in a very urban area where very few highways are over 40 mph and a 50cc would be perfect for saving money, enjoying the scenery of the beautiful area that I live in, commute to my place of employment 3 miles away, run errands, etc. Needless to say, I stopped watching the video to go see if I could find one about how to decide on your first 50cc scooter!
@@gdostockley Yeah, pretty much what I said. But this video is not about 50cc scooters and that's what kind of video I was looking for. Hence, my disappointment and subsequent comment.
There is a gang of us old timers and we all ride 49cc scooters. It's so much fun! We just run the back roads and take all different routes. They are all the same make so they all have pretty much the same power and top speed but they are all different colors so it's looks cool when we park them at a restaurant parking lot. Lol
I grew up in a Vespa family. My dad owned a Vespa shop from the time I was born. I worked for Piaggio in the 70s and early 80s. Vespa used to be cheap reliable transportation but now it's more of a fashion statement. Chinese scooters have come a long way and are slowly taking over the scooter industry with reliable machines for a low price. The Chinese made Lifan 200cc motorcycle I bought in 2007 was amoung the most reliable bikes I've owned in 55 years of riding and it sold for $1350 new. It had nearly 60,000 miles when I sold it last year to go back to scooter riding on a new Chinese 170cc EFI scooter that sells for $1375. Vespa, Piaggio, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, all make fine scooters but their prices are out of line.
I ride a motorcycle and a Vespa scooter and I can simply say your explanation is truly helpful. For new riders, I would also suggest to buy a new or almost new bike and get it inspected properly by a mechanic. Always ride save.
Professional presentation and spot on info. "Vintage" and "barn finds" are a hobby, not a means of everyday transportation. LOL. Wish I had known that when I was 20. (74 now)... Buying a 2017 Lance CABO 125 today with 2100 miles...indoor stored, owner buying a new larger scooter. Cant handle tiny 50cc performance, just want to run 4 mile errands or take it out for a scenic run along the Fox River during nice weather. Paid a bit high maybe at $1500, but owner seems dependable and has some records.
I bought a 1959 Vespa when I was 15, back before we had the internet to track down parts. Never did get it running but I hope whoever stole it from my mom's garage 20 years later figured it out.
This video should be required viewing for every first-time buyer, and would cut down on the dumb questions posted to internet scooter forums and Reddit subs by every teenager with a summer job and every alcoholic with one too many DUIs. The 50cc situation is a little more nuanced than suggested here - they make sense in some states where no motorcycle license is required in places like college campuses where other transportation options exist.
Our Laws require the same licensing for 50cc scooters as any motorcycle. Pedals, Under 1HP and under 20 are what it takes to get a moped plate around here.
My virst bike was (and still is) is a Vespa PX 150. I learn how to rebuild and tune a carb, change tyre etc. No problems with a cables though, cause it's quite fresh. Love it so much.
I have a Cheap Chinese Scooter Daily Commuter for Over 10yrs. My (lb150t) Hence My Channels Name. I Never had Any Issues with getting Parts for My Scooter Where i Live . What you said about Chinese Scooters is Good as a General Rule, but Where I Bought Mine They had a Pretty Decent Dealer NetWork/Resources . You just have to do your Research. I also Own a 2016 Kymco People GTi 300 New had it Almost 4Yrs now as My 2nd Scooter. Lastly you can get Parts for that TNG Scooter from MRP (Martin Racing Performance) .
That was informative,here in Australia there is a lot of Kymco like 200i . I like what you say about we all want to look cool but not so much in the back of an ambulance. My primary tool I have as a cleaner is my legs and I need those so safety is paramount so is after sales service on parts. So thankyou.
He’s definitely right about the $3000 rule when it comes to vintage scooters. My old Vespa is actually already going to cost more because I am doing more extensive work to it but every bike I have seen so far needs around $3000 spending on it before they have something rideable.
Perfectly said. I have made tons of money repairing the Chinese junk of 06-08 but i know what I'm doing and I've really cut down on working on them because it's just not worth the headaches for all the reasons you say. I have a brand new off brand 150cc myself and haven't had much issues at all since I assembled it right but I have a ton of experience with these. When I'm asked I always say "buy a used Honda or Yamaha to ride and if you want to learn buy a cheap off brand to work on and learn but don't rely on it" even Kymco is only as good as the dealer. I have a dealer here where I literally had to get behind the counter and look up what I needed for a super 8 myself because the parts guy didn't care enough to learn how to since they are also a Honda dealer and their parts system is incredible.... Great info as always
I know people who have 10k miles on "off-brand" chinese scooters. But, it aint easy, constant work and well-stocked parts bin. You can own a Buddy 125 for 10 years, never touch a wrench to it, and it will never let you down.
49cc were made for European kids starting with 15 years to get a bike licence. I drove as kid a couple of them. For an adult not good at all if you are more than 90 lbs. Next was a 80cc Vespa in red. Love of my life - until I was 18 and good for the big bikes.... Nice and informative video. I'm now in Panama and here is everything ASIAN. Even Benelli isn't Italian anymore. Looking for a bigger bike sure for 10,000 USD... Most scooters and bikes sold new Chinese plastic with bicycle chains 100cc to 250cc. I have to look to ship my 650cc Burgman to Panama also that I was afraid of the shipping costs but that's quality!
Thank you!!!!! I am just beginning to look into purchasing a scooter. I do not plan on riding on highways or heavy traffic. I have always wanted a Vespa. I would like a new one but after watching this video, a quality used one may not be a bad idea. I really want to be able to purchase parts. Also, I do not know how to repair anything!! I need a vintage looking scooter that someone will be able to repair. Thank you for all of the great information. I live in Ohio and plan on visiting your business. Press the button and go ride the bike sounds like an excellent idea!
I ride an early 90s model TGB 150cc and it has held up wonderfully and I've never had a problem working on it or obtaining parts for it. Cheap bikes will treat you how you treat them from my experience. Even had great luck from the old TaoTao powermax 150cc scooter I payed 750$ for new out of the crate. Lasted years until I sold it. Your advice against cheap bikes has played out the opposite for me.........
Enjoyed the video. Besides a Kawasaki Ninja 400 KRT edition sport bike/crotch rocket, which is GREAT, I have a "Genuine" "Buddy 50" derestricted scooter, which displays 45 mph (we all know that that is optimistic) on the speedo, and I ride it at full throttle having a blast while running errands. "Genuine" is a Chicago based company, and the bike is manufactured in Taiwan, NOT China, by "PGO", a premier manufacturer of scooters. There is a 2 year parts and labor warranty, plus 1 year roadside assistance - I never needed to take advantage of any of that - the bike is so reliable, "bulletproof", just as the dealer said. It is a BLAST!! to ride, as mentioned.
I've been using. Vespas For the last 30 years. I'm Doing A hundred miles a day working on them. And I really love them. They are very reliable. My actual Vespa He said LML. 2013 And after A hundred and fifty thousand miles I changed. The piston And the Rings It's incredible
Wonderful guide to dripping my toes into the world of real scooters (opposed to my dream scooter which almost always comes with an amazing scarf and a man in a kilt.)
I was an avid motorcycle rider, who now cannot afford the upkeep of one or the purchase of one. Looking to get into my first scooter, on your video talking about 125s and 150s. My wife and I are on disability and definitely budget, friendly consumers, what is your suggestion on brand, new or used to me doesn’t matter as long as it’s quality in parts are plentiful
unkie Phil has good advice and will help you find a two wheeler that's comfortable and suits your needs and budget. That's why I bought my first Vespa from his store Cleveland Moto. His service manager can install accessories to make it your own. Great people, good selection and a clean showroom.
Reqlly helpful for a novice rider here in the UK. Looking at a primavera, money is not an issue, would be a 125cc over here, like the nostalgia as we had the Mods in the 60’s and its an iconic bike. Dont expect to want to go big in the future as i’m pushing 60 and just want a runabout to beat the traffic to the gym and coffee shop.
most if not all "50"cc scooters are 49cc engines and also the 32mph top speed only really applies to 4 stroke engines 2 stroke engines when unrestricted at 49cc usually have a top speed of 40-50mph.
Absolutely the most sensible advice re scooters I’ve seen! So true that the classic bikes are a hobbyist thing and you need another mode of transport. I have a modern Vespa and have never regretted the purchase of this bike. If you buy near new of a good brand you can’t go wrong. Good advice to give the 50cc bikes a miss. It means getting a bike licence but well worth the effort. I came to all the conclusions you made on my own, saved more $ and waited til I could afford a better bike and was happy with the result.
I work at a grocery store a few miles out from my neighborhod suburb and I don’t really want to get an entire car because my parents have a car but I don’t want them to have to be without their car for me to go to work. Would this commute be appropriate for every day use like this
Lovely video. Ive owned a few scoots in my day and I really wish I had seen something like this FIRST. I got in on the early wave of Taiwan scooters back in 2005 with the buddy-50. Yeah and after I got it I quickly realized that it was NOT exactly what I really wanted, but at the time they were super affordable. Later I was able to put a 90cc bore kit and larger carb, Yamaha CDI and Coil. After all that it would do an easy 50mph BUT since it was so light and had tiny wheels it was not the most stable.
This was so helpfull. Thank you so much. I have been choosing between a motorcyckle and a scooter. But have decided to go with a scooter. There are so manny companys trying to sell Chinese scooters or cheep bikes. So this made my choise easy. I will buy a new Vespa 300 GTS. I am sure this is a good buy. Take care and be safe. Greetings from Sweden.
Brilliant Advice !!! I'm from the UK and had 2 Vintage Vesoas ,Brooke down all the rime!!! Nightmare!!! Ever tried to replace a cable on a vintage Vep??? Ahhh!! ONG!!!
@@ClevelandMoto Your so right! The new ones with front and rear disc brakes, fuel injection, led lights. I'll take a new Vespa over a vintage one any day.
Thank you for an informative video. I’m planning to buy my first scooter. I live in a small country town where the speed limit is 50km/ph. I’ll only be using the scooter in town. The scooter I’ve picked out is a Scootarelli Elli 50cc. Can you please give me your opinion on this bike, for my purpose. Thanks again.
In addition to KYMCO from Taiwan, SYM scooters from Taiwan are just as good as those of KYMCO. Some are even better, for example: CruiSym 300, FNX 125. SYM is competing head to head against KYMCO in Taiwan with better craftsmanship recently.
Hi , I'm a Brit living in Taiwan.I've been here 30 years and ridden a scooter or small motorcycle every day. 15 years ago I bought a Kimco 125 scooter brand new and am still riding it today. It's done 120,000 km and the engine is still going well.I just bought my 4th battery. The electrics have been a problem for the last year.The headlights keep blowing and the ignition sometimes doesn't want to ignite ! The Kimco Like that you featured is really popular here. I see them everywhere.Taiwan has more scooters than people Everyone has at least one. I'm thinking of buying a new scooter and I'd really like to buy a Vespa 300. I commute 45 minutes each way to work and I need a good reliable scooter. I could buy another Kimco or an SYM or Yamaha ,but I really like the idea of a Vespa 300. What do you think ?
How popular are Vespas in Taiwan? That should answer your question. Italian motor companies are not known for their reliability. If the Kymco performed so well, and is so popular in Taiwan, why would you switch to another brand? I know the Italian bikes look good; but what's the point, if you're broke down on the side of the road, with no support for parts and labor? What I mean by no labor support is that if that brand is not popular in Taiwan, then it's going to be hard to find someone to work on it. Italian brands usually require special tools.
I totally appreciate how you share your expertise. I do understand you reluctance to share 50cc info. I cannot afford a car but I need yo get to work, especially since the management is changing shift hours. While it is slow I need to start at 50cc to gain experience and save up for the scooter I want. Not to mention the motorcycle endorsement classes. Anyway you could put some video up regarding 50cc scooters because I trust your opinion. Thanks in advance
We actually only have one 50cc scooter in our entire inventory. If speed is important to you, go with something dead reliable like a Kymco People 50, derestricted, they're quick and reliable.
Thanks for the insight. I've owned a Honda 359, a 60s vintage Triumph Bonneville, and a 1978 factory prepped Suzuki GS1000e equipped with wheelie wheel tabs from the factory. That thing was a beast! Now that I'm older I'm looking for my first scooter for inexpensive transport and fun. I suspected as much about Chinese scooters but what do you think about a low mileage Yamaha Vino 50? Thanks again. 😎
Thurally informative videos, i enjoyed watching. Ex owner of several motorcycles and scooters since the 60s. Now onto my 3rd new Harley-Davidson. I live in Liverpool England. Harley-Davidson
Wish I had seen this video when I started. Have a fully functional 2019 piaggio and a bunch of parts for a bike in a box I thought "I could figure it out"
Everyone likes Vespa even those who would through it into the back of their pickup in 5 seconds Bye 5K, Kymco makes a great product and parts are available even though you won't need them for a long time.
i just watch the whole thing. you sir are very informative to those entry level want to own a scooter., not like i need more info about scooter (i live in a scooter infested place and i own a Yamaha Mio i 125 myself)
hey my name is Jon, and I'm looking into possibly getting a moped due to the COVID, the DMV has really caused a lot of trouble in trying to get my driver's license.I do not have my driver's license. I have several questions and found that your video was clear and made sense. I don't want to pay a ballpark range of 3k for a bike due to just what if the winter really does make a huge problem for me for work. My question is would it be best to buy a moped? I live in VA where the weather drops from 70 in the middle of the day to 40 at night and into the morning. I've done my short research and found cheap bikes* not good at all if you know what I mean. you explained very well that it's not a good Idea to just spend in the ballpark of $500 but look at buying a better performance and safety is key. Yes, it's clear and I would love to get to work without having to stop because of snow. would you prefer that I do not buy a bike and keep on biking to work? or suggest to save up for a ballpark estimate 3k for a very good bike. If you know any good moped dealerships that you trust would you so kindly share with me because I really don't know exactly what to do next. I dont trust Amazon and I dont trust craigslist that's just for means as well for Facebook. I know Ill be paying more then what Im hoping for. that would be a bummer in the end. you may email me at jonhannula@gmail.com or give me a call at 2766857447. sersoisle I don't know what to do next! thank you, Unkie Phil!
INVALUABLE Video Unkie Phil... Question -- Any possibility my 2019 Sym Fiddle III 200i is good for the 60 to 70,000 miles you mentioned for the Vespa? Currently 15K trouble-free miles in 6 months, including Canada to Mexico and back (in January!) with tent and sleeping bag on the front rack... Thanks Again, "Uncle" Ken
Problem is you need a moto license to go above 50cc where I live. If you have a license, you might aswell go buy a real bike. 50cc does just fine on road with 50kmh. You not allowed on highway either way so commuting to supermarket, beer run or go visit a friend nearby its perfect
Is it ok to say I love you? Lol I’ve been looking everywhere for a video like this.. I’m about to purchase my first Vespa & have done so much research but this is what I needed to seal the deal. Thank you!
Hi Uncie Phil, I just moved to Phuket Thailand a great place to ride the moto. I test rode a Yamaha Mmax 300 the other day. I was surprised how my outstretched feet barely created a stable triangle of support when I came to a halt (I am 5’9”). It definitely has power and pick up but the big size felt awkward when I slowed. I don’t even want to think about maneuvering for a parking space on a cracked, crowded sidewalk coming or going. // So my wish is to have a lighter weight, nimble scooter which still allows me to ride in comfort several hours at a time so I can do some longer distance touring. Basically looking for a compromise between island traffic and crowded venues and comfortable open road cruising. // Also would like plenty of oomph to get up steep inclines, a big enough tank so I don’t have to stop every couple of hours to gas up, and a good size storage trunk. // I don’t know if I am asking too much but I am primarily interested in a lightweight, nimble ride which has plenty of power and comfort for the longer trips. // I had a Vespa LX 150 in Miami Beach for about four years and loved it but wouldn’t dare take it out on I-95. Also had a Kymco Fever 50cc in Seattle which was a lot of fun after I ratted out the dealer who sold it to me to Kymco HQ in FL and they finally got him to fix the starting problem. // So I have been thinking of a Yamaha I-Max 155, or Yamaha Aero 155, or one of the equivalent Honda models (PCX?) they have for sale here in Phuket. // Do you think that 150 cc range would be a good place to be because my desired need for speed would like to bump it up a nice amount but my 71 year old body is sometimes telling me I might want to reign it in. // My balance is still pretty good but several months ago I went down on the sidewalk in VN with my Yamaha 135 Exciter pinned on top of me and embarrassingly enough I had to wait for a little old VN lady on a bicycle to pull it up off my inert body pinned on the sidewalk because I couldn’t budge the 300 + pounds of weight on top of me. // A man’s got to know his limitations but everybody needs help sometimes - have to walk that line. // Perhaps a 200 to 250 cc would fill the order but those in-between sizes rarely exist in the real world. //. For the last likely vehicle purchase of my life I would love to go new so maybe Kymco has the sweet spot, but have to discount having the $5,000 plus price tag for a new Vespa. // Thanks for your reccos….
If you can find one in america I suggest the best vintage for the new to it guy/girl would be a Vespa t5, Don`t touch anything that`s been restored in asia ,AND if your a total spanner swinging guy /girl get a Lambretta ,by the way lol I`ve got both
I'm currently looking for an Inexpensive form of Transportation and have Very little for it as I've been on Disability due to Medical issues . And I am trying to get back to work
regarding the 49cc issue you discussed in the beginning, what about if i'm in a position where i can make my work commute in 12-15 minutes, exclusively on 35mph roads? i'm willing to spend $1500-2000 on a scooter, and where i live the 49cc would mean no motorcycle license requirement. it would be great for my commute.
@@ClevelandMoto any specific brands to avoid? i keep seeing VERY mixed statements about chinese/taiwanese scooters. some say they're fine for the price, others say i'd be better with a used honda or better brand. it's hard to find any of the more reputable brands for under $3k though
Everyone told me, if you get a 50cc you'll want to upgrade. I got one anyway because it only required a limited motorcycle license. They were absolutely right. Don't be fooled into buying the 50cc because it doesn't need a motorcycle license where you live. It is totally impractical for city riding.
Great video, THANKS. I just sold my 20 year old ‘83 PX125. Kids and life took over. I decided on a 2021 Genuine Hooligan 170i (removed the decal!). Love the bike but was hoping for your thoughts on reliability and network for ongoing maintenance. THANKS!
@@thechosen5805 Honestly, it was pretty simple. I used Goo Gone. Applied with a rag all around the outside of the decal, let it sit for 10 minutes, eased a putty knife between decal and body at one end then gently and slowly peeled. Once removed, reapply Goo Gone over an residue, let it sit for a few minutes then take a rag and wipe off slowly.
