Sep 19, 2008

Quality

The quality of these cheap Chinese scooters is a topic of continuous discussion. I have mentioned a few quality related issues a few times, but now may be a good time to address this more thoroughly.

Probably the most common issue on these bikes is just parts coming loose. New owners of these scooters are always advised to check every nut & bolt on the bike for tightness. And use Loctite. This is good advise. I have had a few things get loose and this can be a safety concern. New owners are also advised to change rubber - fuel lines, vacuum lines, CVT belt. This may be good advice on some bikes, but I have had no problems with these items. I have had issues with the quality of plastic body panels. This is not a safety issue, but it is worth considering when weighing the pros & cons of paying more for a scooter.

Another concern occasionally raised is the question of the dreaded Chinese metallurgy. I participate in a number of scooter forums. The biggest & best is ScootDawg.com. Based on the experience of hundreds of owners on these forums, it's my conclusion that criticism of Chinese metallurgy is unfounded. In point of fact I believe that it's just fear-mongering initiated by people who (for what ever reason) just hate Chinese scooters. There may be plenty of issues with electrical gremlins, bad carbs, loose items, and cooling issues on liquid-cooled bikes, but there appear to be no issues relating to the quality of Chinese metals. No folks, these things just don't break in half going down the road.

So the ultimate question is: are they a good purchase? Well the answer is yes and no. For someone with no mechanical skills - no. For someone who has to depend on the scooter as their only means of transportation - no (unless you buy 2). For someone who can do repairs - yes. Definitely yes. If you like the style of these bikes, you like tinkering with them and you like the idea of paying half of what a Honda or Yamaha would cost, then they are a great value.

Another related point that I have to state clearly is that part of the problem with these cheap scooters is owner expectations. A few people buy these things and expect to drive them like their cars. Stick the key in and go. No repairs, no maintenance, no problems. Then they get furious and bitter when anything goes wrong. They want to complain all over the Internet about a brand or dealer, when they are just as much at fault because their expectations are so unrealistic. Don't get me wrong - there are rip-off artists peddling scooters on the internet. But being realistic and doing your homework BEFORE buying a scooter can save a lot of headaches.

Lastly, I want to point out a new link I've added. A very helpful web page that will get new owners off to good start. BTW if you can't do the things outlined on this page, think twice about making a Chinese scooter purchase. http://x1scooters.com/scooterpdi.html

1 comment:

chinese scooter parts said...

Weighing the pros and cons before buying these Chinese scooters is a good way for you to determine if you should avail one for yourself.