50cc Retro Scooter 2012

I have a confession to make,though I have ridden mopeds and scooters for many years, I have never been a mod, but have always found the shape of the Lambreatta’s and Vespa’s and the like, very appealing. Taking a 50CC Retro moped out for a spin, with its very definite 60′s style and sensibilities, was a job I was very much looking forward to doing. Like all 50CC mopeds, to ensure they are used legally on UK roads, this 50CC retro moped is restricted to a maximum of 30 mph. Also, as I have mentioned before, being a rather large gentleman myself, I was concerned that a 50CC scooter might not be able to take my weight, at least not at any great speed. Not for the first time, I was surprised by the turn of speed that modern mopeds can provide. Stepping on to the 50cc retro moped for the first time, I was surprised that the seat seemed a little higher than many contemporary bikes of the same power. It certainly seems more comfortable than many of the sports styled mopeds that I am used to. The handlebars on this moped have a slightly cow horned styling, probably to allow the owner to attach an array of mirrors. (Something I’ve never understood). Push-button ignition and I’m off. The wider front cowl is surprisingly unobtrusive, meaning that steering is not hindered by my long legs interfering with the front of the bike. I practice a few “figure of eight’s”, and stopping and starting, including emergency stops. This is one area where I was very pleasantly surprised. The bike is fantastically weighted, and unlike others in its power, it did not feel as if I was being thrown over the handlebars every time I applied greater than average braking force. This adds considerably to the feeling of safety while riding the bike. Out on the open road, the issue, as with all mopeds of under 50CC, is that I am overtaken by other road vehicles more often than I would like. In turn, this leads me to ride a little closer to the curb and I would like also. The engine is smooth, and relatively quiet. Being a four stroke engine, it can’t truly be compared to the mod styled mopeds of the past, but for my money the extra convenience and smoothness of ride is well worth it. Well, I told you I had never been a mod. That doesn't mean I'm philistine. The cultural references and feeling that is evoked when you are riding a classic bike style like this are palpable. BuUt let's be realistic about it. It's like marmite. Some are going to love this 50cc scooter while others will not like it at all. Even mod purists may baulk at it not being the "real macoy", and I have some sympathy with that perspecitve as well   Overall, a fantastic bike, thoughtfully styled and very comfortable to ride. Ideal for under 17′s or those mopeds riders under about 11 stone.