Should I BUY this scooter ?

Question

A Honda Aero 50cc
only 314 miles on it and
only $ 600.00
BUT ...it's an ' 83 !

It would be my first scooter. I don't mind riding in the bike lane
but I have to get up a few hills and I'm ( wince ) 200 lbs !
Would this one have the power to get up a few hills?
Is mileage more important than age or vice versa when it
comes to it falling apart soon ?
I've got to decide this A.S.A.P.
Please help !

Thank you so much everyone who answered !
I changed my mind and bought a Yamaha Vino Classic 50cc 2003, for $1300. with 500 miles on it.
I know I won't have much power and undoubtedly be waving traffic by, but I feel more secure with it as compared to the '83. Thanks again to all who replied !
Marsha

Answer 1

Honda has a reputation for building bikes that last, but since this is an '83 model, the $600 dollars you will pay for the bike is just the beginning.

More then likely you will need to clean/rebuild the carburetor, buy a battery, buy new tires, replace the old air filter, since the Areo 50 had a variator, replace the drive belt, and possibly reseal the engine(rare but sometimes needed). Then again it might be fine just as it is and run great.

To give you an idea of the longevity of these bikes, I have an '82 Honda Urban Express that runs great. Would I do my 80 mile commute with it? NO! Around town it's fine though.

I've listed some links below. The first is to, My Scoot, a site that lists the old Honda scooter/mopeds. The second is to Honda parts direct to avoid the counter guy who will try to sell you a newer bike. The Areo 50 was a NB50 if I remember right.

A little TLC and any old Honda can run just as well as a new Honda and look twice as nice.
Oh, yeah, the Areo 50 was said to be able to reach speeds of 40-45mph with no problem. Hills will slow you down(30-35), but level ground you would have no problems. I think, I would by it.
Good Luck and
Ride Safe

Answer 2

First off, an '83 Honda Areo 50 has a 2 stroke engine.
There is a possibility that that isn't the correct mileage.
Some people disconnect the speedometer when they buy a bike to keep the mileage down for re-sale.
It could have been in an accident and had the speedometer changed.
If you know the owner and the history of the bike, $600 is a good buy for a scooter with 314 miles on it, regardless of it's age.
The piston and rings could be rusted to the cylinder, or the carb may need to be cleaned. Might need a battery.
Get it checked out before you buy it.
If you know it's history and it's in running condition, I'd say go for it.
As long as the hills aren't steeper than 45 degrees, then it has plenty of power to get you around.

Answer 3

It's a 1983? Bad choice for you. First of all, finding parts for it would be next to impossible. Also, a 50cc for someone your size (I am heavier than you are) would not be a good choice for you. Where do you live, I may be able to help you out on a new Scooter. I service the D.C. Metropolitan area. I ride a 125 or a 150cc bike, which is much much better on hills with my weight. Some might say to get a motorcycle, but if you like Scooters, get what you like. Now, depending on where you live, you may have to have a motorcycle license for a Scooter higher than a 50cc. Just know this, if you already have a drivers license, getting the motorcycle endorsement usually is a piece of cake. Take it slow until you find what you want. You can email me at "[e-mail]

Answer 4

No. Do not buy this scooter, any four stroke 50cc will be very slow and dangerous for a larger rider. I would buy something bigger like a 150cc. I'm not sure of your budget or riding ability but there are plenty of scooters out there that are inexpensive and good.Too slow is very bad in traffic you are not able to avoid the cars which can barely see you.If you have tons of cash get a new vespa or the like otherwise, Check out some of the newer Chinese scooters on craigslist or eBay. Lifan is a reputable make. Do not rush it, you will be stuck with a slow and hard to modify scooter. Take your time and make the right choice. I ride in heavy traffic everyday and having power is the most important factor in my opinion.
Good luck and Ride Safe.

Answer 5

Too old man too old, if it was $300, may be but for that price...
Heeey I am 190 lbs and I got a 50 cc 4 stroke Honda scooter, it is a blast, it is not nearly as fast as bigger brothers but it is so much fun to ride, I also have a K1200RS so believe me I know what fun is.

Answer 6

No - this one has an ugly combination of age and disuse. Many things often age worse when they aren't used regularly - carburetors gum up, tires dry rot, and the whole thing generally deteriorates from too much sitting in the garage.

Answer 7

yes....... it's a honda........it will pull u up hills but not sure how fast u want to go.