Help please - Baotian 125?

[ben]

Hello, my first post so apologies if it's in the wrong place.

I have been thinking more and more recently about buying a scooter to get to work and back. (Only a 6 mile trip all 30mph limits).

I am 25 and although had a car licence for 8 years I've never been on a scooter.

I had thought about buying second hand but then saw the Baotian BT125T-7 for £895 otr.

Does anybody know anything about these bikes? Originally I was going to go for a 50cc but seeing as I want to do my CBT anyway, I thought I may as well go for the bigger engine.

Any idea how fast they will go? Perhaps in comparison to a derestricted 50cc Boatian? Although I travel a 30mph route to work, it would be useful if the bike could manage longer journeys.

Thanks for any info on this machine, as I can't seem to find much else where.

Ben

[lplatewarrior]

I am guessing the 125cc Baotian is from Baotianuk.com? If it is it will do 55mph top speed. The speed of a deristricted Baotian 50cc scooter depends on the person who imported it. Some people get 40mph while others have 50mph. Hope this solves your problem.

[Davros]

Hi Ben,

I bought a brand new Baotian BT50 scooter just over 2 weeks ago and I'm delighted with it.

Like you, I've had a car license for years (16) but had no bike / scooter experience.. (other than 5 minutes off road on a scooter in Crete)....

I have caught the bug so much now that I went and bought a 2nd scooter last week - a second hand Gilera Runner 125 ....

If you've never ridden before, I would recommend buying the Baotian 50 first and getting some experience on that first ...... It's nothing to do with being 'hard' or talented going out and getting a 125 straight away, I just don't think it;s very sensible .... I can ride the 125 fine but the power delivery is very sudden, when you're not used to regulating throttle using a twisty hand grip (instead of an accelerator pedal).....

I'm doing my CBT this Friday and then I'll start to ride the 125 now and again but the Baotian 50 is absolutely perfect for getting experience, and a lot more relaxed to ride.... Mine is de-restricted (very easy), and comfortably does 45mph, which is enough until you get experience.

Your choice matey, thats just my view on it ...... Save some money on the cost, Insurance, fuel, etc, by getting a 50 first to make sure you like scooting and to get the experience.

You could sell it, add a bit money, in 6 - 12 months and get a 125 then...

[drzoom]

Hi,
I would agree with Davros in general. Buying a cheap 50cc is an inexpensive way to see if this scootering lark is for you. Some people take to it, some don't.

I bought a very cheap 50cc to start with as I had never been on any kind of motorcycle before. After a month I sold it and bought my first 125cc.

The crucial question you have to ask yourself is what are you going to use the bike for. If it is for short journeys (say 5 miles or so) on quiet roads then great. If it is for longer journeys on faster A class roads then I would tend to start off with the 125cc, take your CBT and learn about riding safely from the professionals as you will need the extra speed to remain safe.

You can have a look at my scootering website at:
www.argolis59.freeserve.co.uk/simons-scooters.htm

Good luck,
Simon

[Davros]

Good site, Simon - I enjoyed reading your Scooter chronography !

Bad luck with the Piaggio but the Dylan has certainly served you well to date.