Which scooter would you chose and why? By scootec (Read 692 times)

[scootec]

I want to get another 250 and I have two choices in my local area. A 2008 Chinese 250 (Jonway, Roketa, JmStar, who cares) with 5,000 miles on it or a 1985 Honda Elite 250 (Ch250) with 13,000 miles. Both have clean titles and are running and driving. When I ask "what should I chose?" My criteria is

1. Reliability- how often does it have "breakdowns"? And how long does it last?

2. Which is more enjoyable in general?

I have owned a Roketa 250 but it was rough when I got it. It only had one problem which was it randomly died on the road and would restart a short time later with no explanation. But other than that I enjoyed it. Common sense says that the Honda will be of higher quality than a Roketa but I'm interested in real world experience from actual owners. So let's hear it!

[kevinharrell]

I have no experience with either bike, but, I would go with the Honda Elite. Why? Well that bike has an odd clunky look that is cool in its own way.

[cyborg]

I too would go honda,, but not just for the quality aspect,,, parts availability,,,, altho it is a bit older ,,,,be back in a few,,,, and a quick blast of eBay just confirmed my thoughts,,, less than 50 parts for a jonway 250,,,over 4000 for the honda even tho it's 20 years old,,,, and that's not talking dealers either,,, I'm sure there's a honda bike dealer within reasonable distance from where you live,,,,, I'm not sure about the jonway

[jct842]

I am not sure there is better parts available for the honda. If you check around I'll bet there is a better selection for the chinese. The honda is 30 years old and I don't think they were that popular in their day. I do like antiques though, my 1983 riva 180 has similar styling and wears an antique plate. In arkansas once you put a antique plate on it you will never have to pay a yearly fee again but you do have to keep up the insurance. Just paid for another year for the riva and the majesty.

Some of the 2008's did have some reliability issues but nothing that a handy person can't resolve. I shudder to think of having to buy parts for that riva, I am sure the belt would run over $100 if I could find one.