How to choose a scooter

A scooter is a substitute for both your own car and public transport. He is not afraid of traffic jams, the device consumes the minimum amount of fuel, does not require a separate parking space and is suitable for use in everyday urban conditions.

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1. Top scooter manufacturers
   
2. Types of scooters
3. Scooter selection options
4. Features of the choice of the Chinese scooter

Top scooter manufacturers

The most preferred to purchase are scooters of those manufacturers that have proven themselves in the market of cars and motorcycles:

1. Yamaha;

2. Suzuki;

3. Honda;

4. Irbis;

5. Kawasaki;

Widespread and all kinds of Chinese scooters. With good performance characteristics, such models have a democratic price, and therefore the popularity of such devices is logical. Before choosing a Chinese scooter, you should study the reviews and operating experience of owners of similar models, as well as the typical “sores” and knots prone to breakage. This can be done on the Internet, on thematic forums and in social networks.

The principle of operation and types of scooters

A modern scooter is structurally similar to a moped, differing from it by thoughtful ergonomics and ease of fit behind the wheel. The scooter is also equipped with an internal combustion engine, transmission and braking system, there are lighting devices and those components that are necessary when driving on roads.

Under the general concept of "scooter" presented a great many models.

Compact scooters (up to 50 cubic cm.)

Miniature models that represent a complete replacement for bicycles. Compact weight, simple design, unpretentious operation. On sale are models that differ in design, filling and performance. Require a driving license of class M. The certificate is issued from 16 years.

Virtues

• Suitable for beginners and teens;

• Maneuverability;

• Minimum fuel consumption;

• Unpretentious in operation;

• Compact size;

disadvantages

• The speed is limited to 40-50 kilometers per hour;

• Difficulties in the transport of passengers and baggage;

• Small tank volume;

• Small engine resource;

Mid-size models of scooters (from 50 to 250 cubic cm.)

Powerful devices with engine capacity from 50 to 250 cubic centimeters. Requires a driver's license category A and can quickly accelerate to a speed of 90-120 kilometers per hour. The functional is close to motorcycles.

Virtues

• Sufficient power for most operating conditions;

• Acceptable fuel consumption;

• Allow to organize long trips;

• Allow the carriage of passengers;

• Sophisticated brakes;

• Good accelerating dynamics;

• The presence of ABS, cruise control and other modern systems inherent in motorcycles;

disadvantages

• Requires a driver's license category A;

• Requires qualified maintenance;

• Costly;

• Not suitable for children and teenagers;

Full-size scooters (up to 500 cubic cm.)

Models equipped with engines of over 250 cubic centimeters. They represent a full-fledged analogue of modern motorcycles, equipped with modern auxiliary mechanisms, capable of reaching speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour. Robust and reliable design, but at the same time quite compact and maneuverable in city traffic.

Virtues

• High power;

• Excellent low and high beam;

• Maneuverability;

• Allow to transport a passenger;

• Availability of all necessary systems;

• Durability and reliability of the design;

disadvantages

• Requires good motorcycle management skills;

• In the event of a breakdown, repair will pull a large amount of money;

• Consume a lot of fuel;

• Expensive;

• Are allowed to operation only in the presence of a driver's license of category A;

Options for choosing a scooter for everyday use

Regardless of the type to which the model is selected, the criteria for the correctness of the purchase are similar in many situations.

Engine capacity

The most important parameter affecting the acceleration dynamics, engine life, as well as fuel consumption.

1. Compact models up to 50 “cubes” are a great alternative to a bicycle for everyday use, as well as a great gift for children and teenagers. And such models do not require rights;

2. If you have to travel together with the passenger, you should prefer a more powerful model, about 125-150 cubic centimeters;

3. For those who want to get maximum emotions and know how to handle motorcycles, a scooter with a capacity of more than 200 “cubes” will be optimal;

Principle of engine operation

Two stroke engines - the most simple in operation and maintenance. The principle of mixing in them is divided into two stages. Unpretentious devices suitable for suburban use. Such models almost always do not have a dedicated lubrication system and require the addition of special oil to the fuel tank in certain proportions.

Four-stroke engines more complex in a constructive way and require more careful care. By the principle of operation they are similar to ordinary automobile engines, they assume the presence of a separate lubrication system. They are quieter and smoother, the exhaust is more environmentally friendly, and fuel consumption is several times lower.

Engine power and maximum speed

The parameter is inextricably linked with the engine displacement. The higher the power, the more dynamic and speedy the scooter.

1. As a vehicle for children and adolescents, a scooter with an engine capacity of 3 to 8-10 horsepower, capable of developing 40-50 kilometers per hour is best suited;

2. Daily operation will require the purchase of a more powerful scooter. The optimal model is a model with an engine of 5 to 15 horsepower, accelerating to 80-90 kilometers per hour;

3. For active recreation, high-speed driving and frequent crossings between cities, you need a model with a digger with a capacity of up to 40-50 horsepower, surpassing the mark of 150-180 km / h Such devices require certain skills and abilities to handle two-wheeled vehicles, because they are almost as good as sports bikes.

Number of seats

When choosing a scooter, it is necessary to take into account the number of places and compare it with the fact that there will be passengers or the movement will be carried out alone. It should also be remembered that compact low-power models are not designed to carry passengers - the comfort of a trip alone will be minimal, and the average speed will not exceed 15-20 kilometers per hour.And on the contrary, powerful models quite allow a comfortable journey with a partner, but they require special skills to control such a device.

Fuel consumption and fuel tank capacity

An important parameter that directly depends on the power reserve, as well as how often the filling station will be visited. The dependence here is simple - the higher the engine power, the greater the expense.

1. Compact urban models with an engine capacity of up to 50 "cubes" consume no more than 1 liter per 100 kilometers;

2. Models with engines from 50 to 250 cubic centimeters "eat" more. Their consumption can reach 3-4 liters per hundred kilometers;

3. Powerful road scooters with engines up to half a liter consume up to 6-8 liters per "weave." Such an expense - the price paid for the high dynamics and the ability to accelerate intensively;

4. Many manufacturers practice the formula for binding fuel consumption to the volume of the fuel tank, counting as the standard a figure of 500 kilometers. It is for this reason that models with a tank that can hold from 5 to 20 liters of fuel can be found on sale.

Engine cooling system

Air system installed on the simplest models of scooters, it does not imply intensive use and long trips at maximum speed.

Water system has greater performance and provides effective heat removal from the engine. She is equipped with powerful scooters. Antifreeze is used as a working fluid.

Principle of fuel supply

1. Carburetor scooters - the most budget models. The fuel is supplied by the suction of a special device. It works is not always stable, and its functionality depends on many different factors;

2. Injection system more fault tolerant and ensures proper mixing. As a result, the thrust increases, the dynamics and the quality of the engine work improve, regardless of the operating conditions. Injectors put on the model of the middle and upper price range.

Type of transmission installed

Semi-automatic gearbox allows you to clearly adjust the speed and engine speed, switching the operation mode with a special foot pedal. In contrast to the "mechanics", there is no clutch, and its functions are assigned to a special control unit.

The variator, or the so-called stepless box - is becoming increasingly popular lately. The principle of its work consists in the presence of a cone-shaped coupling, along which the strong poly V-belt is moving. Changing its position relative to the wide part, the gear ratio of the gearbox and, as a result, the speed of movement change.

Type of brake system installed

Responsible for how quickly the scooter stops during an emergency.

1. Mechanical brakes. Similar to those on sports bikes. The brake disc compresses the pads, which are driven by a cable mechanism and handles, compressed by hand. The simplest system installed on low-end models and low-power scooters;

2. Drum algorithm. The role of the brake pads perform a semicircular shape, rubbing against the drum. Due to the fact that the pads are inside, protection against rain and debris is provided;

3. Disk hydraulic system. As in the case of the mechanical algorithm, the pads brake on a special brake disc, but the drive here is not manual, but hydraulic. It is considered the most functional and provides a quick stop at any speed;

Features of the choice of the Chinese scooter

Practice shows that the country of origin of a particular model of a scooter plays a secondary role. Attention should be paid to the overall quality of the assembly and the materials used, as well as technical solutions and their implementation, comparing the information received and the cost of the device.For example, if a powerful engine of 30-40 horsepower is installed on the scooter, as well as mechanical brakes, it is better to refuse to buy such a model because of the high danger of not stopping on time.

When choosing a Chinese mid-range scooter, you should pay attention to the following options:

1. Engine 20-25 horsepower;

2. Four-stroke design and injection;

3. Variable speed transmission;

4. Drum or hydraulic disc brakes;

5. Excellent light head optics;

6. Comfortable fit;

7. Tank volume of 10-15 liters;

 

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Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a guide to purchase.