Discussion
May start commuting via scooter in a bid to save time/money etc (and justify buying another Chimaera), but literally know nothing about them. Can anybody recommend a 125 that can be had for couple of grand used?
I quite like to look of the Gilera Runner but beyond that I know nothing.
Priority to handling and general performance over comfort. It would be used almost exclusively in very heavy traffic. Something undesirable that won't get stolen off the street would be good, without resorting to any dubious Chinese brands.
Thanks
I quite like to look of the Gilera Runner but beyond that I know nothing.
Priority to handling and general performance over comfort. It would be used almost exclusively in very heavy traffic. Something undesirable that won't get stolen off the street would be good, without resorting to any dubious Chinese brands.
Thanks
If you can get a Honda I would recommend that over the Gilera, nice as they are. I ran a Runner200 for three years, was great but had a few warranty claims and despite regularly cleaning and maintenance I still didn't feel confident it would be reliable for a long time. Lovely machine otherwise. Honda should be leagues ahead, and probably less desirable to scrotes.
To be fair, I put 12k miles on my Gilera in three years so they CAN do the commuter role, but servicing and tyres are nearly as expensive as running a small bike! I swapped it for an FZS600, which I still have, better in every respect other than getting round traffic jams in town, but thats no help to you is it
To be fair, I put 12k miles on my Gilera in three years so they CAN do the commuter role, but servicing and tyres are nearly as expensive as running a small bike! I swapped it for an FZS600, which I still have, better in every respect other than getting round traffic jams in town, but thats no help to you is it
I'd definitely go bike instead of scooter, depending on how much luggage space you need.
The Varadero 125 is the most 'big' bike like and actually has a bit of torque from its little twin engine. They often come with a top box, handle fine and values are very very steady. Buy a decent one and you will likely get back what you paid when it's time to move it on.
The Varadero 125 is the most 'big' bike like and actually has a bit of torque from its little twin engine. They often come with a top box, handle fine and values are very very steady. Buy a decent one and you will likely get back what you paid when it's time to move it on.
I had a Honda CG and I loved the thing. They're famed for their reliability, simplicity and cheap running costs.
Mine got stolen, so security for whatever you get is a big priority. I had a handle bar lock, disc lock and a huge thick chain that was fastened to an iron fence. They got through them all with what I guess is a huge pair of bolt cutters.
Immobilisers have become more common now though, and I would certainly recommend a bike with one.
Mine got stolen, so security for whatever you get is a big priority. I had a handle bar lock, disc lock and a huge thick chain that was fastened to an iron fence. They got through them all with what I guess is a huge pair of bolt cutters.
Immobilisers have become more common now though, and I would certainly recommend a bike with one.
TheTurbonator said:
I had a Honda CG and I loved the thing. They're famed for their reliability, simplicity and cheap running costs.
Mine got stolen, so security for whatever you get is a big priority. I had a handle bar lock, disc lock and a huge thick chain that was fastened to an iron fence. They got through them all with what I guess is a huge pair of bolt cutters.
Immobilisers have become more common now though, and I would certainly recommend a bike with one.
You've got me worried now. Mine is only chained to the front garden fence. But it's a piaggio fly who would want that!Mine got stolen, so security for whatever you get is a big priority. I had a handle bar lock, disc lock and a huge thick chain that was fastened to an iron fence. They got through them all with what I guess is a huge pair of bolt cutters.
Immobilisers have become more common now though, and I would certainly recommend a bike with one.
But it does the job for my commute into London 9 Miles's each way. Doesn't handle the bumpy roads too great though.
Northernchimp said:
I would ride a bike instead, yes, not fussed. Anything I can ride after an afternoon's CBT.
Please get some proper training and not just CBT - it's a different set of skills to driving, although closer to a TVR than most other cars!Edited by Northernchimp on Tuesday 8th October 18:09
If you want good ride handling and comfort then don't buy a scooter. Buy a normal geared 125 motorbike.
anything like a Honda CG,CBF, yamaha YBR etc..
Suzuki VanVan is nice and low to the ground with chunky tires and a nice wide seat. so comfy.
Personally I'd get the VanVan, biased as I really do quite like the look of them.
anything like a Honda CG,CBF, yamaha YBR etc..
Suzuki VanVan is nice and low to the ground with chunky tires and a nice wide seat. so comfy.
Personally I'd get the VanVan, biased as I really do quite like the look of them.
Depends on the scooter and the commute. Some scooters are much more comfortable than a bike. The suzuki burgman for example. And a small wheeled scooter handles much better than a bike in town and much water to ride in traffic being twist and go. Broad comments like "bikes are better" are never true. Horses for courses, and take each on its merits.
Head over to bike banter for a more knowledgable answer.
Head over to bike banter for a more knowledgable answer.
Northernchimp said:
Love the Vanvan but I'm 6'4" which would make me look ridiculous.
I'll look at the others (not the R1) though, cheers.
I ideally need a big bike with a tiny engine, I think. No desire to go beyond CBT at the moment, I can control a bike and am aware of the risks.
I would go for the YBF R125 or the Varadero then, both of them are normal bike sized.I'll look at the others (not the R1) though, cheers.
I ideally need a big bike with a tiny engine, I think. No desire to go beyond CBT at the moment, I can control a bike and am aware of the risks.
AnotherClarkey said:
Oops, I meant YZF R125. Good luck!
I'm no expert but...Northernchimp said:
Priority to handling and general performance over comfort. It would be used almost exclusively in very heavy traffic. Something undesirable that won't get stolen off the street would be good..
I think the YZF has the (relative) performance but maybe not the (low speed) handling, suitability in heavy traffic or undesirability to thieves in the OP. Gassing Station | General Gassing | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff