Hi all. I'm new to the China Doll methodology of powering bicycles, so during my 1st build, it's an extremely-stock budget motor.- my "improvements" are concentrating on it's reliability and longevity. I've ordered the better spark-plug and wire recommended here, a better fuel filter and hose, etc..... one of the things that bugged me was the stock air-filter*.... (it doesn't look too good at keeping filth out of the motor to me.), so I ordered a small aftermarket air filter. Is it going to mess with the carb tune, of am I good to go? Anyone else do something similar? My build is absolutely stock, with a better plug, stock pipe, and a better air filter. Not looking to race Hayabusas... just don't want garbage getting sucked in. Here is the new filter: Thanks. * Anyone else think the stock air filter looks like the logo from The Punisher?:
It shouldn't change much, although your carb most likely needs tuning anyways. In terms of reliability, has anyone warned you about the stock sprocket adapter yet? That's the first thing I replace on chinabikes, before I even test-ride them.
Thank you! I can't wait to get this running/broken-in so that I can start tweaking the carb for sure! Hub Adapter?...still saving up for a good one. Considering the whole kit was $105, $40 is a healthy chunk for 1 part. I've been trying to keep this in the Low-Buck Experimental Mode, and I'll just have to keep a very close eye on the sprocket and tensioner set-up. The funny part is, it seems China Inc. has been paying attention to the mods/improvements people make to their kits, and when (not if) they decide to make improved hubs for sale, you can bet it won't be $40 a pop. The evolution and value of these kits over the years has been impressive.
I don't think ingesting dirt is the cause of most cg engine seizures. They last quite a while with the stock doodad. My cover's drilled with 5 or 6 holes. If it falls off the mixture leans out a bit and pulls good, so an improved airflow makes some difference. I lost one of those round ones. The engine ran fine, if a little lean. After spending about a hundred on different carbs and filters, my stock engine ran best with the drilled out cover and the original NT carb. Who knew?
I find that properly tuned, the NT carbs are much simpler to adjust and a lot less finicky than most others. Don't even get me started on the CNS carbs.
You will need a sprocket to go with the adapter, so it's actually more like $80. It's cheaper than a new wheel though lol.