Greetings from Tucson

Finfan · #1 08-29-2008, 02:28 PM

Hello! I am completely new to the world of motorized biking but trying to learn. My goal for now is to build a bike that I can use mostly for short hops when it isn't worth starting up my truck and perhaps make the 16 mile round trip to work once or twice a week. I plan on using a 50 cc or less engine since where I live that exempts me from needing to register and insure the vehicle. I used to own a 1958 Plymouth as a project and the cost of the insurance was what forced me to sell it. Anyway I am finding many answers to questions here but I am wondering if anybody could point me to a thread that explains the differences between the various Chinese 2 cycle engines and how to tell which is which? I mainly ask this because I don't have a lot of funds and I am pondering the $120 ebay kit vs. the $250 kit from Spooky Tooth.

For the record I am relatively adept at things mechanical. I've rebuilt a V8 so I figure I can handle a 2 cycle. I am also in relatively good shape for my age (almost 55 at this time). I do have an innate need to tinker and love to figure out and repair mechanical devices. So here I am!

ebmvegan · #2 08-29-2008, 02:37 PM

Welcome! You will find many willing to help here and good luck.

I haven't purchased any kits from any other vendor other than boygofast on ebay. But read through the attached and you will see that all have different experiences with different vendors. I go for quality over price until I run out of cash.

http://motorbicycling.com/f3/find-de...view-1730.html

**Ilikeabikea** · #3 08-29-2008, 03:16 PM

Welcome to the forum. You might read through the classic posts. Lots of good motorized bicycle info there. Glad you joined us.......................

**Dave31** · #4 08-29-2008, 03:20 PM

Welcome Finfan to the forum, glad you joined us

Another Tucsonan

I've been pulled over a while back and I have a 80cc...they cannot tell the difference between a 48cc and a 80cc unless they go through the trouble to measure the motor and I bet 99.9999% they never will unless you really have done something wrong and they want to add as many charged as they can.

Many will use a electric pencil or stamps and put "48cc" on thier motor...the cops will never know. I do know Spooky sells side covers that say "48cc" I am sure they will mount right on to a bigger motor.

http://motorbicycling.com/f30/china-...acts-1929.html

http://motorbicycling.com/f4/kit-best-1764.html

dan283 · #5 08-29-2008, 05:27 PM

Welcome to the forum. Great you've done your research you'll fit right in.

danosixtysix · #6 08-29-2008, 10:50 PM

welcome finfan . and greetings from flagstaff ,az

jf30cp · #7 08-30-2008, 03:09 AM

I have heard some iffy things about the ebay buys. I would say buyer beware. as a safty net, i would head down to see roland at spooky tooth since you live very close to him and spend the money with him. That way if you have any problems, you can always talk to him. I have a spooky tooth 80cc kit and my girl bought a bad ass bike that he put together... either way, i have had no problems with spooky tooth. he carrys both the 80cc and the 50cc.

LordMaximo · #8 08-31-2008, 02:24 PM

You can get a 4 stroke 6.5-hp, 196cc engine from Harbor Freight for less then $200.00. Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices
I would rather have some kick to move my 265lbs large frame around the hills of my hood over something half the size and double the money.
Just food for thought all. This is what I am using on my rat cycle.

Maximo

azbill · #9 09-05-2008, 10:22 PM

welcome from FH !
the spooky 48cc magneto cover has saved me some grief from 'the man'

nogoodnic · #10 09-15-2008, 10:06 PM

Welcome to the group Finfan, sounds like your on the right track. Enjoy the ride...Kelly