1.How
Do I Properly Balance the Scooter?
2.How
do I properly rinse my scooter after diving in salt water?
3.
What should I do if my scooter sticks on while I am diving?
4.How
fast can scooters go?
5.Can
I make my scooter go faster?
6.Which
model of scooter is best to buy?
7.What
engine size do I need?
8.How
do scooters differ from motorcycles?
9.What
are the advantages of scooters?
10.What
are the advantages of scooters over automobiles?
11.What
are the advantages of scooters over motorcycles?
12.What
are the advantages of scooters over mopeds?
13.How
do you make 2-stroke scooters go faster?
14.How
do you make 4-stroke scooters go faster?
15.How
long do the engines last?
16.What
kind of transmission does it have and is it electric start?
17.Are
these scooters legal in my state?
18.Isn't
the handling unstable?
19.How
long do the tires last?
20.What
kind of maintenance do these gas powered scooters require?
21.Aren't
scooters slow?
22.How
reliable is my scooter?
23.What
should I do before riding my gas scooter?
24.Don't
the small wheels on scooters make them unsafe?
25.How
many people can ride on the scooter?
26.How
hard is it to assemble my new scooter?
27.What
is the difference between chain-driven and belt-driven
transmission?
28.What
is the difference between a gas scooter and a gas powerboard?
29.Do
I need to mix my own oil and gas to fuel the gas scooters?
30.What
is the minimum engine size needed for highways in the
USA?
31.What is a good "beginners"
scooter to buy?
32.Which model of scooter is best
to buy?
33.What engine size do I need?
34.Should I buy a new or used scooter?
35.Where can I find used scooters for sale?
36.How can I determine the value of an old
scooter I have?
37.Does it makes sense to buy "grey
market" scooters?
38.Why does the same scooter have different
names?
1.How
Do I Properly Balance the Scooter?
The best balance for the scooters is to have the batteries
positioned in the center relative to the tube walls so
that it has no bias. If you want a bias, make it so that
your tow strap is on the area of the scooter that ends
up on the bottom relative to gravity. This will allow
the scooter to tow properly.
The fore and aft balance is best set so that the nose
is slightly up when the scooter is hanging free. This
will keep it up out of the silt , reef, wreck or other
objects below you. It is great to have the scooter neutral,
but keep in mind that the compression of the o-rings changes
the buoyancy by about .7 pounds, so make the scooter that
much positive at the surface, or neutral at the surface.
You do not want the scooter floating up around you and
tangling, unless you are diving a sensitive area like
a reef where you might be catching lobsters, in which
case positive will keep the scooter off of the coral.
However, watch out and don't let it get behind you if
it is positive.
Batteries
are always slightly different in weight, the tube walls
always have varying amounts of material in them, and different
water has different buoyancy characteristics. For those
reasons I make the tubes a little longer than they need
to be, and I make the bulkheads such that there is room
for spacers. The short pack makes no difference, so that
one can be made without spaces and still have the nose
up attitude, but the others may need different positioning
of the spacers in the battery pack. Weight can be added
to achieve exact balance.
The
packs must end up 1/2 inch below the end of the tube.
The lid should be able to fit onto the scooter snug to
the tube with no o-ring. That way you know you have to
correct positioning of the tube. You want the pack to
hold the motor compartment shut tight (it has latches
and double o-rings, but still needs to be held tight).
You also want all of the stresses of the scooter to be
distributed throughout , not concentrated in any one area.
TOP
2.How do I properly rinse my scooter after
diving in salt water?
A rinse in fresh water after diving followed by a spray
of CRC or WD40 around the area of the seal will do a lot
to prevent any problems. You do not have to take the props
and clutch off, merely use the little tube that comes
with these cans to spray under the clutch and into that
area. The idea is to prevent the cone around the seal
from reacting with the salt and eating away. Eventually
this process will leave the seal unable to hold at its
edges, even if the two seal plates are not damaged. Then
the whole motor cone has to be replaced, which is extremely
time consuming.
An easy way to rinse a scooter is to put it in a fill
bin and run it a few seconds (with the pitch turned down).
You can also use a hose and force water in under the clutch.
TOP
3. What should I do if my scooter sticks
on while I am diving?
If the scooter sticks on for real, as in if the reed switch
breaks or the relay welds shut or mechanically sticks,
you can stop the blades with your hand and turn the pitch
back while you are changing stages or decompressing, and
then stop it again and reset the pitch when you want to
travel. With the oceanic clutch, this will mean replacing
the clutch, a very inexpensive part. With the WKPP clutch,
you can do this indefinitely.
If it is sticking on because the magnet is not coming
all the way back, just pull the magnet back gently with
your fingers. If the trigger is stuck, do the same and
then free the trigger. Sometimes you need to check the
trigger to be sure it is smooth on the outsides.
The other mechanism of sticking is on is when you get
grit in-between the wheel and the leg. Then you need to
loosen it so that it does not recur.
If the relay welds shut or mechanically sticks, there
is a problem with the motor, so check with George before
you ruin your relay.
TOP
4.How fast can scooters go?
In spite of common myth, scooters are not slow
by design, unless they are also speed-restricted mopeds.
The world speed record for scooters is thought to be held
by Marlene Parker of England who in 1965 ran her 200cc
Lambretta at over 130mph on a racetrack at Monza, though
it was deemed an unofficial time.
TOP
5.Can I make my scooter go faster?
4-stroke engine. By their very nature, 2-stroke
engines are much easier to modify for greater power and
speed than are 4-stroke engines, though the basic concepts
to increasing speed on any scooter are the same. Essentially,
All scooters can be made to go faster. First, it's critical
to know if your scooter has a 2-stroke or you need to
improve fuel, air and exhaust flow. Further, many 50cc
scooters (speed-restricted mopeds) can be de-restricted
fairly easily also, allowing very noticeable increases
in speed. It should also be noted here that typically
performance kits void manufacturer warranties. They often
also make reliable engines less trustworthy, usually in
proportion to the extremeness of the modification. And
lastly, if the increase is very large (as on 50cc models,
for example), there will be serious issues as to whether
the brake and suspension systems will still keep the rider
safe at these new higher speeds.
TOP
6.Which
model of scooter is best to buy?
A
good older classic scooter is likely your best bet. However,
if you simply want reliable transportation, a modern scooter
may be a better choice, just because they tend to be newer
usually. In most cases, larger capacity scooters are usually
better than smaller ones.
TOP
7.What
engine size do I need?
This
depends entirely on what you'll be doing with the scooter.
If you plan to do much highway driving, it will be highly
desirable to buy the largest engine you can find -- at least
200cc. Around town, the engine may be smaller for most needs.
Stock 50cc models really are only best if you will have
minimal interaction with automobiles, as they typically
have difficulty maintaining speeds much above 35mph, unless
they have been modified to go faster. If you will carry
passengers, weigh quite a bit or plan to ride up steep hills
often, you will also want larger capacity, at least 70cc
for around town. All scooter engines typically have a shorter
lifespan when they are constantly run full throttle, so
you should take this into account also. Lastly, it is always
adviseable to have excess engine capacity to accellerate
out of trouble and to pass safely. [7/99]
TOP
8.How
do scooters differ from motorcycles?
By
definition, motorcycles are nearly any two-wheeled, motorized
vehicle. Therefore, scooters are by definition simply a
specific motorcycle design. This is why in most localities,
there are no regulations for scooters per se, and thus scooters
fall either under moped regulations (assuming they meet
the proper requirements to do so) or by default, they are
legally treated as motorcycles. There are a few localities
that have specific regulations for scooters, but as these
are extremely uncommon and follow no real pattern, they
are not covered here. The reason that scooters are commonly
not treated as equals in motorcycle circles is simply because
they generally are slower and not as performance-oriented
as their larger cousins. So technically, all scooters are
motorcycles, though usually only scooters that more closely
resemble what are more commonly called motorcycles will
be referred to as such.
TOP
9.What
are the advantages of scooters?
Scooters
originated very early on in the development of motorcycles
generally to address problems that some felt were inherent
to common motorcycle design. Foremost was covering of the
engine compartment. This was done to avoid inadvertent contact
with hot engine parts, which is a common concern for motorcyclists.
This concern went further with the covering of the rest
of the body, along with a front legshield, meant to protect
the rider from mud, water and road debris that might drift
up from the road below. The common step-thru design initially
was so ladies could wear dresses without compromising their
modesty, but it has come to be welcomed because it allows
the rider to sit on the seat much like a chair, instead
of straddling the vehicle, as is common on motorcycles.
This tends to be a more comfortable riding position for
the short distances that most scooters were designed to
cover.
TOP
10.What
are the advantages of scooters over automobiles?
Scooters as two-wheeled vehicles have all the obvious
advantages over automobiles. This would include lower operating
costs, as scooters are more fuel-efficient, require less
insurance and usually cost less to maintain. They are also
easier to park, maneuver in heavy traffic and to store.
Scooters are typically much less expensive to purchase than
automobiles, and arguably are much more fun to operate.
Many who operate two-wheeled vehicles call automobiles.
TOP
11.What
are the advantages of scooters over motorcycles?
As
noted elsewhere, scooters are actually just small motorcycles.
However, there is still a clear distinction between scooters
and the rest of the motorcycle family. Generally speaking,
scooters have been designed purposely for those that are
intimidated by motorcycles, on whatever level. Scooters
are easier to learn to ride and often easier to operate.
TOP
12.What
are the advantages of scooters over mopeds?
It
has been noted elsewhere that many scooters are also legally
considered mopeds. In all cases, this will mean they have
engine sizes under 50cc. Traditionally, mopeds have typically
had larger wheels and exposed engines, though obviously
50cc scooters would not have these attributes. The main
advantage of the body panels is protection from the heat
of the engine and exhaust. The smaller tires produce quicker
handling response. And it's usually easier to change the
tires on a scooter over a traditional moped, because many
scooters have tires mounted on one side only, like auto
tires. Of course, if the comparison is between a 50cc moped
and a larger capacity scooter, the advantage of greater
power will enable the rider to better maintain traffic speed
and to stay out of trouble by accellerating out of it sometimes.
TOP
13.How
do you make 2-stroke scooters go faster?
This
is typically done by changing to a higher performance exhaust,
larger cylinder and piston, larger carb with different jetting,
lighter flywheel, water cooling, etc. The first place to
start is nearly always the exhaust. Unlike 4-strokes, the
exhaust system on 2-strokes is critical to their performance.
Removing it will make the scooter sputter and run poorly,
if at all. Shape is extremely critical and this will also
change the sound (and loudness). The easiest thing is to
replace the standard exhaust with a performance one, easily
available for nearly any model scooter at any of the larger
scooter shops around the world. The standard exhaust typically
is a compromise between power and performance at various
speeds. Performance exhausts will modify this, for example,
by allowing a higher top speed, by sacrificing power at
lower speeds.
TOP
14.How
do you make 4-stroke scooters go faster?
Like
a 2-stroke, volumetric efficiency is the critical aspect
to increasing power on a 4-stroke engine. However, the mechanism
to achieve the same goal differs. Anything that gets more
air and fuel mixture into a motor makes the bang bigger
and increases power. So longer cam duration sucks more mixture
in, bigger carbs allow better flow, bigger/more valves increase
flow, and larger header pipes increase flow (notice the
pattern here). Turbos and superchargers do the same thing
but they force more in. Nitrous oxide carries much more
oxygen than air so by squirting in NOS and more fuel to
go with it, again you get a bigger bang. The thing is they
all tend to make more power, but further up the rev range
(except supercharging and NOS injection), usually reducing
power and torque down low, big bores are the only thing
that doesnt do this. For further information on this subject,
consult the books.
TOP
15.How
long do the engines last?
A
well cared-for scooter should be able to go about 25,000
miles before it needs a major rebuild. The 50cc two strokes
work harder, so I'd think they should be overhauled by 15,000
miles. I have heard of some Helix's running over 100,000
miles.
TOP
16.What
kind of transmission does it have and is it electric start?
It
is pull start with a centrifugal clutch. The centrifugal
clutch is the simplest, most economical way to soft start
a motor or engine connected load, and apply full torque
on a gradual basis. It will eliminate shock loading, and
will protect the reducer, motor, and connected machinery
in the event of overload or jam-up. The use of a centrifugal
clutch may allow the selection of a smaller motor and/or
reducer, thus saving space and money. The clutch is a natural
for automatic standby in dual drive applications. A centrifugal
clutch does not require outside assistance, such as reduced
voltage starters, air, electric or hydraulics.
TOP
17.Are
these scooters legal in my state?
The
scooters sold on this site are legal in most states. Please
check with your local DMV for state specific requirements
such as registration, age requirements and helmet laws.
In the state of California the gas scooters are sold as
a racing vehicles only and as such can be used only at sanctioned
racing events and practice.
TOP
18.Isn't
the handling unstable?
They
are not unstable, but it does take a little while to get
used to riding a lightweight machine with small (10 inch)
wheels. Then it's second nature. You do have to watch for
potholes and large cracks in the pavement, but other than
that you should not have any problems.
TOP
19.How
long do the tires last?
About
4,000 miles for the rear and over double that for the front.
TOP
20.What
kind of maintenance do these gas powered scooters require?
Some
basic maintenance is required. If riding regularly, it's
a good idea to check all the bolts in the scooter every
couple weeks (you can use the wrench provided in the toolkit
if adjusting is needed). It's also a good idea to put some
chain oil on the chain about once a month. Also, remember
to always put the correct amount of 2-stroke oil in with
the gas.
TOP
21.Aren't
scooters slow?
Speed
a problem?? Not for scooterists! If your scooter just doesn't
quite fulfill your 'need for speed', there are after-market
parts that can give your scooter the quickness you desire.
There are 125cc scooters that are nimble in the city and
legal on highways. There are also big 600cc and 650cc scoots
that are fun for touring highways! There's a scooter out
there for EVERYONE.
TOP
22.How
reliable is my scooter?
If
properly maintained and not abused, they will last a long
time, and provide a reliable and faithful ride. Maintenance
is pretty straightforward. In general, the Japanese scooters
(and most of their motorcycles) are very reliable. That
is how they got their great reputation.
TOP
23.What
should I do before riding my gas scooter?
First
make sure that all screws on the scooter are tightened.
They sometimes become loose during shipping. Next, apply
chain oil to both the primary and secondary chains. Lubricate
the chains before you ride the scooter for the first time
each day, after every hour of use, and before you put it
away at the end of the day. This will ensure your chains
do not stretch or break. Use a 25:1 gas to oil ratio, with
regular unleaded gasoline and 2 stroke oil.
TOP
24.Don't
the small wheels on scooters make them unsafe?
The
answer very simply is a loud NO! Contrary to common myth,
the smaller wheels on scooters do not make them noticeably
less safe and an argument can be made that this very trait
makes them *safer* than their larger-wheeled cousins. Smaller
wheels result in greater handling responsiveness, which
can keep the scooterist out of trouble more readily. Scooters
simply manuever more easily than motorcycles generally.
While it's true that smaller wheels are more vulnerable
to getting caught by large potholes, you should also know
that those same smaller wheels result in more lower end
torque, which will more readily pull you out of that same
pothole. This is why a scooter of the same engine size can
often outperform a motorcycle from a dead start.
TOP
25.How
many people can ride on the scooter?
Only
one person should ride on all of our scooters, except that
two light people may ride on Moped Scooters. Just keep in
mind that the maximum load weight for both mopeds is 280
lbs.
TOP
26.How
hard is it to assemble my new scooter?
All
of our scooters are shipped 94% assembled and with clear
instructions to make assembly as easy as possible. Most
scooters can be assembled relatively quickly with basic
tools. Plus, some of our scooters come with FREE tool kits
to make assembly even easier.
TOP
27.What
is the difference between chain-driven and belt-driven transmission?
Chain-driven
transmission is more rugged than traditional belt-driven
transmission, so it can handle all terrain scooter riding.
TOP
28.What
is the difference between a gas scooter and a gas powerboard?
A
gas powerboard has a wider deck and a lighter frame than
a regular gas scooter in order to be used for racing and
trick riding.
TOP
29.Do
I need to mix my own oil and gas to fuel the gas scooters?
You
will need to mix unleaded gasoline and two cycle oil in
a 25:1 to fuel the gas scooters and powerboards offered
on this site. However, the two stroke gas engines in our
gas mopeds automatically mix the oil and fuel for you. Just
fill up your tank with the amount of unleaded fuel and 2-stroke
engine oil indicated in your scooter manual.
TOP
30.What
is the minimum engine size needed for highways in the USA?
Contrary to popular belief, there is no one single
standard that governs all federal interstate highways as
to minimum speed. Nearly all speed regulation in the USA
is done by individual state authorities, and thus there
are 50 different answers to this question. In general, you
must have at least a 150cc engine to operate on any major
highway in the USA, along with the ability to not impede
traffic, no matter how fast a speed that may require. In
most cases, it's highly advisible to have at least 200cc
for any highway driving at all and preferably more.
TOP
31.What
is a good "beginners" scooter to buy?
Almost
by definition, all scooters are meant for "beginners"
in that it's usually very easy to learn how to ride one.
Typically, modern scooters are considered the easiest to
learn, just because they have electric starters and automatic
transmissions. They are essentially twist and go vehicles
that take most people about 5-10 minutes to learn. However,
even the manual shifting and kickstart of most classic scooters
are not difficult to master, given about 30-40 minutes of
practice. Of course, smooth shifting will take a day or
two to master, but the basics are not difficult. And kickstarting
is only a problem if the scooter has not been maintained
properly -- it should start by the second or third kick
at least, or something is wrong.
TOP
32.Which
model of scooter is best to buy?
Of course, this varies widely depending on who
you ask. Most of those who already own a particular scooter
tend to favor that make and model, just because they've
typically fallen in love with it. The better question to
ask first is what you want to use the scooter for and what
expectations do you have for it. If you want style above
all else, a good older classic scooter is likely your best
bet. However, if you simply want reliable transportation,
a modern scooter may be a better choice, just because they
tend to be newer usually. In most cases, larger capacity
scooters are usually better than smaller ones. Among those
"in the know", the Vespa GS is considered the
best classic Vespa, while the PX series has been around
for over 20 years now because of its great reliability.
A great resource for buying used Vespas is the Vespa Buyer's
Guide. The Piaggio Typhoon has also earned a solid reputation.
Among Lambrettas, the TV/SX/GP series machines are all considered
the best models. Among Honda scooterists, the CH250 (aka
Honda Elite/Spacy/Freeway) and the CN250 (aka Honda Helix/Fusion/Spazio)
have earned strong followings. The Yamaha XC180 and XC200
(aka Riva) has developed a solid reputation, as has the
Yamaha CW50 (aka BWs/Zuma II).
TOP
33.What
engine size do I need?
This
depends entirely on what you'll be doing with the scooter.
If you plan to do much highway driving, it will be highly
desirable to buy the largest engine you can find -- at least
200cc. Around town, the engine may be smaller for most needs.
Stock 50cc models really are only best if you will have
minimal interaction with automobiles, as they typically
have difficulty maintaining speeds much above 35mph, unless
they have been modified to go faster. If you will carry
passengers, weigh quite a bit or plan to ride up steep hills
often, you will also want larger capacity, at least 70cc
for around town. All scooter engines typically have a shorter
lifespan when they are constantly run full throttle, so
you should take this into account also. Lastly, it is always
adviseable to have excess engine capacity to accellerate
out of trouble and to pass safely.
TOP
34.Should
I buy a new or used scooter?
Buying new or used usually depends on your budget
and what is available in your area. A good used scooter
that has been properly maintained in most cases should be
almost as good as a new one, though of course you'll usually
lose the advantage of any dealer warranties. It is especially
critical to carefully examine a used 50cc scooter, as all
too often they have been abused the most by straining the
engine to the limit much of their life. A good used scooter
can have a nearly unlimited life if properly maintained,
which will include seals and gaskets, which often disintegrate
over time. This is why mileage alone is not a good indicator
of condition. There are also common misperceptions about
how many miles a scooter engine will require before rebuilding.
This is also an issue of how it was maintained and stored.
Vespa engines have been known to have an ultimate life of
over 100,000 miles and commonly rebuilds are done after
about 25,000-30,000 miles. In all cases, as with autos,
highway miles are much easier on scooter engines than stop-and-go
city driving. Lastly, the downside of buying the lastest
scooter models out is that to a certain extent you provide
the data on whether this model will be reliable. This is
why it might be advisable sometimes to wait awhile or at
least buy an established scooter model, in which all the
"bugs" have been worked out.
TOP
35.Where
can I find used scooters for sale?
Unfortunately, seeking old scooters online is easily one
of the worst places, if cost is any factor at all. Those
advertising online typically hope the greater exposure will
bring a higher selling price. And it's hard to judge actual
selling prices from often inflated asking prices ("I
heard someone once paid $2000 for a Honda Spree in mint
condition!" - yeah, right). One of the best places
to shop online right now in the USA at least would be Scooter
Classifieds, though you should notice how many ads there
are repeated, but with continually lower asking prices (no,
most Vespa P200s are not worth $4000 no matter what your
Uncle Harry says). Probably one of the better places to
look for bargains is in any large motorcycle shopper publication.
These often have scooters at decent prices. It also helps
to ask local motorcycle dealers, who often know someone
looking to get rid of a scooter they no longer desire. You
can also advertise yourself in some local publication that
you desire to buy old scooters, though if you don't specify
beyond that, you will typically be deluged with offers of
mopeds in pathetic condition. And of course, you can buy
from a scooter shop nearby, as most have old scooters for
sale. There are quite a few scooter shops even in the scooter-unfriendly
USA. Simply find one of the better websites for your desired
make and/or model and search from there.
TOP
36.How
can I determine the value of an old scooter I have?
This often comes up when someone discovers an old scooter
collecting dust in the back of their garage. Often the person
asking this question is hoping it's worth a lot, because
somewhere they heard "they get a lot of money for these
old scooters these days". Maybe and maybe not. In actuality,
most old scooters collecting dust aren't worth much as they
sit. The value is proportionate to the condition, desirability
and marketability of the scooter. Condition means things
like if it runs (easily the *most* important issue!), whether
all body parts are intact, if there is rust present, if
the fuel has turned to varnish, etc. Desirability means
how much in demand a certain scooter model is. Contrary
to many novice opinions, various scooter models by the same
manufacturer will often fetch widely varying prices in the
same condition, just because knowledgeable people greatly
desire some models and spurn others. For example, among
Vespa scooter enthusiasts, the GS, SS, Rally and P200 models
are most in demand and the Allstate, Sears, VBB and other
models with smaller engines (150cc and below) are least
desireable. Likewise, those looking for Lambretta scooters
typically want a 200cc Series III model (TV, SX or GP) and
are least interested in smaller engines (150cc and below),
LDs or smaller Li models. Those seeking used Honda scooters
typically are most interested in the Helix/Spazio (CN250),
Elite/Spacy 250 (CH250) or Elite/Spacy 150 (CH150) and are
far less interested in the smaller engines, like anything
125cc or less. Yamaha scooter fans most often want a Riva/Cygnus
180 or 200 and typically are least interested in the models
below 150cc. Lastly, marketability is a large factor in
selling price. If you have a desireable scooter in good
condition, but don't find a reliable way to contact interested
buyers with ready cash, you will necessarily get less money
when selling. The best way to judge potential selling price
is to ask a number of people knowledegable about your scooter
model. Short of that, you making at best an educated guess.
TOP
37.Does
it make sense to buy "grey market" scooters?
The
term "grey market" is widely misunderstood. It
has nothing to do with the expression "black market",
which refers to illegal sales of an item. The "grey
market" is the LEGAL sale of an item that is not officially
sold in that locality, for whatever reason. In the scooter
world, this will include any scooter not sold new by dealers.
For example, as of early 1998, Honda has not imported the
250cc Foresight into the UK, so dealers there sell it strictly
"grey market". This represents an unknown strategic
decision by Honda, since it is sold elsewhere in Europe.
There are many reasons why scooter companies fail to officially
import their vehicles, but in most cases it will be because
of a lack of interest sufficient to justify whatever expense
is involved. Scooters get into the "grey market"
by one of two paths. The first is when an individual personally
imports a scooter that was not officially imported and then
later sells it, including to a dealer. In this situation,
the individual is personally responsible for all safety
and emission regulations being followed (the scooter may
have to be modified for this), as well as custom duties.
The second path is when a dealer officially imports USED
scooters that were never imported new, but this latter method
only works when the scooter would have been legal when new,
even though it was never officially imported. Therefore,
if a new scooter is not legal for import to a country, then
only an individual will be able to import it.
TOP
38.Why
does the same scooter have different names?
Scooters
are marketed all over the world by companies often very
far removed in language and culture from the localities
in which they are trying to market their products. As a
result, they often market under a different company name,
allow a local distributor to market under their own local
name or simply re-name individual models for that locality.
For example, Her Chee Motors (Taiwan) markets scooters under
the Adly name around the world. Yamaha (Japan) also markets
using the name of their wholly-owned subsidiary MBK (France).
Piaggio (Italy) markets scooters under the Vespa name, it's
wholly-owned subsidiary Gilera (Italy) and it's own name.
Piaggio also recently allowed it's former licensee LML (India)
to use the Vespa name, though that licensing agreement ended
in 1999. Innocenti (Italy) sold scooters under the Lambretta
name, but then also allowed use of that name by it's licensee
Serveta (Spain). SIL (India) bought the tooling from Innocenti
and continues to produce Lambretta scooters. QingQi (China)
has allowed their scooters to be marketed as Kasea in the
USA, which is the name of their unrelated USA distributor
(who now appears to be marketing scooters under the Kasea
name from Korea).
Additionally, manufacturers market the same model in varies
countries with different names because it just helps to
sell more scooters. Some names just don't sound as good
in other languages. The best known scooter with this situation
is the Honda CN250. In the USA, it is called the "Helix",
in Japan it is the "Fusion", most of Europe calls
it the "Spazio", while in the UK it's simply the
Honda CN250. Likewise, the popular Honda scooters called
"Elite" in the USA are called "Spacy"
everywhere else in the world, except for the CH250, which
is called the "Freeway" in Japan. Further, the
Honda NS50 is sometimes called the "Tact" and
other times the "Vision", while the SRX50 and
SRX90 are called the "Joker" in Japan, but marketed
as the "Shadow" in Europe. Honda also marketed
the "Aero" in the USA, but has called it the "Lead"
(pronounced "Leed") everywhere else. Yamaha has
done this also, as the SH50 "Razz" in the USA
is called the "Mint" elsewhere, just as the CW50
"Zuma II" in the USA is the "BWs" everywhere
else. The popular "Riva" line in the USA has been
called the "Cygnus" in Europe regarding anything
over 125cc. The smaller "Riva" line was the "Beluga"
in Europe. And so it goes.
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