Hello Praetzal,

Thxs for responding.  Agreed, old two-stroke scooters are bad news--I would never own one of those smokers that is too underpowered to ride on city streets.  The recent 4-stroke models are very much improved with computer-controlled programmed fuel injection and other emission goodies:
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Honda's Silverwing is powered by a 582cc DOHC parallel-twin, liquid-cooled motor, putting out a claimed 50hp (@7,500 rpm) and 37 ftlbs of torque (@6,000 rpm), Vibes from the 360-degree crank are kept at bay with twin balance shafts, fuel is injected, emissions are reduced by an exhaust air-injector and catalytic converter, and final drive is by CVT.
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400-600cc Scooters are tiny compared to the big Harleys and Honda Goldwings in engine displacement and acceleration performance.  But if one just needs acceleration superior to most traffic--these scooters are sized just right.  The big bikes and crotch rockets can accelerate like missiles--most car drivers have no appreciation of the unbelievable "get-up and go" these high power machines are capable of achieving.  It is not necessary to have a big bike or crotch rocket unless every now and then you wish to 'goose it' for a thrill.

Bob Shaw in Phx,Az  Are Humans Smarter than Yeast?

A photo of the parking lot at the factory I work. There are both 2 stroke and 4 stroke engines. Almost every engine is 125cc or less. Probably not enough cc's for the current average American, but they preform fine for the workers here.

Click to enlarge photo

Hello Oilfall,

Cool picture!  Looks like about 500 bikes--compare with the acres of real estate required to park 500 cars.  Glad to see all the helmets.  Covered parking is a smart incentive too.

Bob Shaw in Phx,Az  Are Humans Smarter than Yeast?

I get a login request when I try to enlarge the photo.
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