I ghetto rigged a right view mirror and took the highway going 80 mphs it was fine chilled at my friend's and went to go home on backroad going 30 mphs and it started swinging so I went to slow down and it came off and smacked me hard asf and it accidentally slammed the front break and flipped over the bike I didn't realize I slammed the front brake so hard till I went to turn towards off the middle of the road had a filling I messed up and went flying into a guard rail knees first and flipped over all good tho
I remember seeing one of these brand new back in the mid 80’s when they first came out. The design was crazy futuristic for the time. I never forgot the digital gauges.., it looked so awesome then, and still does on the 05 model. Back in the 80’s Honda scooters were everywhere. I’m almost 50 years old now, and boy do I miss the 80’s. Good times!
Dude, Yammie. When I first started watching your videos. I wondered if you would ever do a review on the Helix. But I assumed it was just too lame for you to give it any time. I own a 1993 Honda Helix. It was the catalyst for me owning 4 Busas. It was just too much fun and I needed more. The Busas are so much fun in their own way. But when I swing a leg through my Honda Helix and cruise through the city, it's definitely a lot more fun than a Busa in slow speed neighbor hood and city traffic. It's so light on its feet and manageable. Yet so comfortable to ride. So long like a jet ski and I'm able to put my feet forward. Leaning back with my hands high on the handle bars, I feel tough like I'm on a Harley. Big bright head light, Liquid cooled, great wind protection, and awesome storage. Always starts up and keeps running. Honda Helix, best scooter in the world 🗺!
I'm 53, this is something I have learned over 48 years of owning 30ish motorcycles.....when Honda makes a funky looking bike, it's usually pretty great.....pacific coast, ctx, rune, and the helix....all awesome and unique and fits certain riders perfectly. Am I wrong?
The best scooter I have ever owned was a jajue terra 50cc moped it's was the most comfortable bike I have ever owned my peace sports 150cc is pretty pokey for having 12 HP but the suspension is the weak link
I spent a year in Vietnam and had a Yamaha NVX to get around. Honestly would love to see maxi scooters like these be more common commuter options here in the states they're just so practical in the right climates.
I've taken mine, loaded with camping gear, thousands of miles. They have a few drawbacks for long distance hauls(small tank), but mine has never let me down.
As Uncle Voodoo says, I want a bike that floats around corners instead of attacking them. It's a different vibe with scooters, you have to go with the flow. 👍🇦🇺
I have an 05 Big Ruckus that I love. I wish it had storage like that. If I had one nitpick it would be the turning radius. It s like turning around a container ship in my tight carport/ driveway compared to my Vespa P200. But once in the road, there’s nothing more comfy on two wheels to cruise on.
My wife and I had a Helix for years and it was so practical for getting around town. We would ride 2-up pretty often too, although the suspension was not as happy with two adult Americans on board! I saw Helixes around Japan when I was there in the mid-90s and they had crazy huge gauntlets built in to the handgrips, I guess so that you wouldn't lose your gloves, just stick your hands into the gauntlets and go. And the trunk really adds a lot of utility. A lot.
I had all the Honda scooters, and the Honda Helix was the last scooter I had. I loved it so much, my Honda Helix was a 1992 model, and I had it until 2000, selling it was the worst deal I ever made. I still miss my Honda Helix. Greetings from Buenos Aires, Argentina !
here in the Philippines where scooters are more common than mc's as your primary 2 wheel ride I agree. your vids helped me a lot when i was just starting to ride (and that was a year ago). im happy you already featured 2 scooters just this month already. lets ride 😊
A few years ago, I took my bike to a shop, and the owner had one of these. I thought it looked cool, and nerdy... a bit Robocop like. He insisted I take it for a spin, and was I pleasantly surprised, at the comfort, and ease of riding. With Honda doing retro bikes nowadays, it would be nice to see this in the lineup.
Glad im not the only one who caught the Honda scooter craze. Ive kept my k6 gixxer put up much more than i ever anticipated once i got my hands on a 2000 49cc SA50 Elite. I think you should make a scooter series. The elite, zuma, express, jog, razz, vespa, dio, etc, etc. All the classics. I mean shit, these could all be banned within the near future due to emission standards. I dread the thought. Stay 2 wheels down guys!!
The Helix was my first "Motorcycle"! I took an uber an hour and a half into the country to buy one for like 800 bucks I dropped it once and slid 20 feet and the fairings kept me from touching the group completely, only scuffed the edges of the fairing.
Honda Scoot Life! Helix is fun needed a Little more Power but Maintain Comfort I got a 2006 Honda Silverwing 600 😎 Love The Ride Comfort And Reliability
That’s just SO awesome. My 2023 Honda Click 160 is the Master of St Louis City streets. Brought over from Indonesia-Get looks everywhere I go. Black too so it’s Stealthy. Nice retro ride Yammie
My first bike is on order and it is the grandchild of the Helix. The ADV 350. A massive seller for Honda and I for one can see the lineage from the Helix to the ADV 350. Fun times ahead.
I own a Honda Reflex and love it, I also just got a Piaggio X9 500 cc scooter. I love my scooters. Put over 12,000 miles in 3 years on the Honda. So glad ya did a scooter video.
I was delighted to see this video on your channel today! Finally got me to sub. I have owned every thing from HD's to full bagger touring bike, Yamaha Venture Royal with the V-Max motor! Age and permanent injury has forced me onto lightweight machines which has left me with a scooter and a Suzuki S40 thumper. When I got my scooter, 150cc Kymko Vespa clone, I thought I would hate but at least stay on two wheels. I have been riding since 10 years old. The scooter turned into a love affair. In town it is the perfect errand and grocery fetcher. There is something about low powered small wheel scooters that make you feel like a super bike racer going the speed limit. When I am physically able I spend time in the countryside with my S40 enjoying the torque of the big thumper. But if I get to where I can have only one bike, it will be a scooter and I never thought I would say that. I hope you dive deeper into this alternative world of two wheeled fun with regular segments. Yamaha made an unusual art deco era aero styled scooter called the Morphous I believe. It also has a long wheelbase a 250cc engine and smallish wheels. Check it out. If I can find one of those I will buy it as it is much younger than the Helix and it is fuel injected I believe. It would also be fascinating to see what you think after testing the Kymko AK550 twin with belt drive.
I’ve had a couple of friends just transition from motorcycles to scooters. I still don’t get it. Some look good, but most don’t. And the lean and ride on motorcycles is just more fun!
I love the Honda Helix! I had a 2006 a couple of years ago, and it's the only bike that I truly regret selling. One correction for you though. It only has a 12 inch rim on the front wheel. The rear wheel is a tiny 10 inch rim. The rear wheel is (in my opinion) the only weak point. the rear tire valve is a pain to reach, and all the weight at the back wears that tiny rear tire out fairly quick. But, it's still my favorite bike I ever had. I haven't found another one for a decent price since.
I would love to see your take on the 80's/90's Honda Pacific Coast (PC800) - the "not a scooter" but ultimately known as a "Super Scooter" due to its functionality. A real cross between scooter/motorcycle/car, with a watertight trunk darn close to the size of a first gen Miata and "gentlemanly" manners for riding. Definitely not a sport bike, built truly for commuting over distance.
Enjoyed watching that - reminded me of my old one I had a few years ago. When I sold it the buyer turned up and used an angle grinder to cut it in half on front of me to put it in his car! Said he was sending it to India for parts.
Love that your playing around with scooters. I've been thinking about getting back into 2 wheel riding. If I do it'll probably be a scooter. Not saying to turning this channel into a scooter channel, but I'd love to see a ride and thoughts video of the Piaggio MP3 530.
Loving the scooter content. Like many I joked on them for years. My bro picked up a Yamaha zuma 125 and that thing changed my mind. With touring bikes getting more and more expensive I’m seriously considering getting a Yamaha xmax 300. Would still ride the motorcycle for shorter spirited rides. But when you think about it a maxi scooter like the xmax is basically an affordable touring bike. Tons of storage, wind protection, good tech, comfortable. Highway capable
Man I love scooters….I started out with a Honda ruckus 50!!! Then went to a 2011 Honda pc125, then a burgman 400, then finally a newer gen burgman 650👍🏻👍🏻 working on getting a Honda silverwing since I’ve never had one and currently have no scooter!
Great video. I have a 16 Roadglide and a 19 KLR 650. I bought a 05 Suzuki Burgman 650 last summer and I ride it 90% of the time. I would have never thought I would like a scooter...they're a blast. 52y/o btw.
I bought my1987 Honda Honda Helix 250. Up to this date I’d never have owned a scooter. I loved this scooter until I got a new job at General Millls in 1991. I got a lot of slack about riding a scooter when most riders were riding Harleys. I sold it and quit riding for many yrs there after. I remember bringing home a 17 lb watermelon in the rear trunk with ease..👍 It was a remarkable scooter wishing I still had it today.🤔😬
As a long time scooterbro, all I can say is YES. My wife and I have done some epic rides (up canyons on dirt roads, carrying more groceries than a store can provide...) and all on a 150. As for maneuverability, few things are more fun than doing a u-turn flex by doing circles *within* a single parking space.
I have a PCX125 and tbh I think it's just enough for me, the longest ride I've done is50 miles and even though it takes me1hr 20 minutes it never feels like it... But once I have paid her off ,then I will think about getting my A1 license so I can jump up to a 400 cc ..
My dude, Papa Yamms, you are across town from Scooter 911, who sells, services, and races scoots. He’s also got his own respectable channel. Can we maybe see a collab? I would die of joy.
I worked on these back in 90s when I worked in a Honda Yamaha dealership. Nobody in a bike shop likes working on scooters or test driving them but I have to admit after driving one on the highway they are somewhat fun I now know what it would be like if Lazy Boy built a motorcycle.
If you like the helix you will love a Burgman Executive 650 it has power adjustable windscreen and if you get the perfect one heated grips and seat and it has more power and a max speed of 110MPH
You should check out the Suzuki Bergman 650. That thing out accelerates some sport bikes and also all Harley’s while looking like a Ninja 250 made love to a Lazy Boy recliner.
You should try out a vespa gtv 300. It has a lot of the same handling characteristics you describe here, and although it looks like something that would sit comfortably by a bike rack actually keeps up with interstate traffic. It's wild.
I don’t get it Yam…so wait, what makes it cool is the retro-digital dash, watertight storage, AKIRA-like styling, comfortable, long wheelbase, recumbent ride? You just described my bike, the Honda NM4/Vultus, except the NM4 is 745cc and can do a hundred easy, and was actually based on Akira. It’s also the bike you unceremoniously 💩 on in an older vid. I think you owe it an apology….and a second look.
I was riding my Goldwing on Iron Mountain Road in the Black Hills last week and came up on a woman riding a Helix. I hadn’t seen one in probably my 30 years.
This was my first "bike" when I went to high school. I had a 1989 in 1995. My parents said if I don't wreck it for 1 school year I could a real motorcycle. I made it and my dad went with to buy a 1986 V65 magna. My senior year was legendary. People didn't know the old Honda could spank their z28s an GT Mustangs.
The crazy thing is I was given 2 scooters one of them being a Yamaha Zuma bugeye .. the other one is a clone of a Suzuki let's 2 zz ..... Which then led me down a rabbit hole applying a parts bike thinking I can upgrade one of the other bikes but then ended up turning it into a custom ... It was designed to mimic the Honda reflex but the frame in the motor are more Honda Helix... The motor is a vertical motor and it is the cn250 just like the Honda for some people refer to it has the CFMOTO 250.... From being a person who likes sport bikes two-stroke 50CC scooters are a blast.... What the new one is stripped evolve it's extra weight and is a 250cc which makes it feel like a rocket .... As long as you can suck up the dorkycoolness of a scooter and and don't look like a Harley Rider they are quite fun.... I just rock it like it's my d flying out..... 0 Fs to give .... If you guys want to miss out on the fun that's your choice
Maxi scooters are really the ultimate useful motorcycles. Smooth, quiet, efficient, clean, simple, fast... Shame the Burgman isn't in production anymore.....
Oh, but they are! 200s and 400s are still made. The 650 was discontinued, though. I had a 200 and it's peppy! I've got an XMAX 300 now. Also a great scoot.
Almost every scooter ever, despite having a carburetor, has an "auto choke" actually an auto enrichener. It is a small fuel needle that only closes when power has been to it for more than a minute, it heats up and expands the needle closed
13:38 Scooters truely give that feeling of false safety. I also got unpleasantly surprised when my "cute" 1,5kW (2hp) electric scooter suddenly started a rear wheel burnout on a damp roundabout. That certainly made me respect that little thing (at least a little) more
Only thing wrong with the break down at the beginning is it is water cooled not air cooled. Also they were produced every year from 87 all the way too 07 they didint stop production throughout that time frame.
Never thought I'd see a guy like Yammie Noob selling his broken turbobusa, saying he is off dirt bikes forever, and then saying scooters are great fun. But the truth is, they are. The twist-n-go automatic CVT is great fun and easy to to drive in sticky situations of the city, while focusing 100% on the traffic and environment, and practically 0% to the bike you are riding.
If you think that is nimble Yammie, ride a Vespa! Shorter wheelbase, small wheels, very flickable. Does the Helix have a trailing link front suspension, a la Vespa? By the way, I usually wear all my gear when I ride my Primavera 150. Maybe try riding some bigger engined maxi scooters? Burgman maybe? As for the brake on the floor, a lot of the older scooters had the rear brake on the floor. Look at old Vespas for example. If the Helix does have a trailing link suspension, that would explain the lack of nose dive when braking. I love my Vespa Primavera 150!
I totally need a Helix or one of its successors in my life! Also I'm curious if you've ever tried any of the newer ones like a Suzuki Burgman. They even make one with a 650 now, sounds like pure luxury.
I got pulled over for speeding on a Honda Helix in the twisties. The State Police officer walked up to the Helix on the side of the road and burst out laughing. No ticket. I was doing 65 in a 35 zone.
Yammie want to try the ultimate scooter? I just bought a aprilia mana 850 , my wife love's that thing, so easy to ride and kind of likening better than my tuono.
A friend's brother had one in highschool. The friend had a rebel 250. Which i thought was strange because the brother with the scooter was the oldest. Lol
guys lets wait until he finds about Yamaha TMax, Honda XADV 750, Honda Forza 750, Honda Silverwing 600, Kymco AK550, Suzuki burgman 650, Gilera GP 800, aprilia srv850 etc, wauting for that day ❤
Get your Chin Mounts @ chinmounts.com/yammie and use code YAMMIE for 10% off the entire order!
Will you try a 400cc one next
I ghetto rigged a right view mirror and took the highway going 80 mphs it was fine chilled at my friend's and went to go home on backroad going 30 mphs and it started swinging so I went to slow down and it came off and smacked me hard asf and it accidentally slammed the front break and flipped over the bike I didn't realize I slammed the front brake so hard till I went to turn towards off the middle of the road had a filling I messed up and went flying into a guard rail knees first and flipped over all good tho
And the helix reminds me of a quarter of a car no hate I love it still
If you don't love riding scooters then you're a poser biker. They are fun as hell and very practical while commuting or city riding.
If I remember correctly my mom's original 85 was pearl white came from the factory with a Kenwood stereo!!
I remember seeing one of these brand new back in the mid 80’s when they first came out. The design was crazy futuristic for the time. I never forgot the digital gauges.., it looked so awesome then, and still does on the 05 model. Back in the 80’s Honda scooters were everywhere. I’m almost 50 years old now, and boy do I miss the 80’s. Good times!
Dude, Yammie. When I first started watching your videos. I wondered if you would ever do a review on the Helix. But I assumed it was just too lame for you to give it any time. I own a 1993 Honda Helix. It was the catalyst for me owning 4 Busas. It was just too much fun and I needed more. The Busas are so much fun in their own way. But when I swing a leg through my Honda Helix and cruise through the city, it's definitely a lot more fun than a Busa in slow speed neighbor hood and city traffic. It's so light on its feet and manageable. Yet so comfortable to ride. So long like a jet ski and I'm able to put my feet forward. Leaning back with my hands high on the handle bars, I feel tough like I'm on a Harley. Big bright head light, Liquid cooled, great wind protection, and awesome storage. Always starts up and keeps running. Honda Helix, best scooter in the world 🗺!
The flickability comes from how low it carries all its weight. Center of gravity is practically on the ground. Love my helix
and the tires have a much more round curb too!
I'm 53, this is something I have learned over 48 years of owning 30ish motorcycles.....when Honda makes a funky looking bike, it's usually pretty great.....pacific coast, ctx, rune, and the helix....all awesome and unique and fits certain riders perfectly. Am I wrong?
You're not wrong. But you forgot the Fury.
Nope.
Dn01, NM4, Valkyrie, the list goes on and on and on. Loads of funky but also great machines.
Pacific Coast owner here. Can confirm!
And the ch250!
I just got my first 2 wheeled vehicle ever last week. A chinese 50cc scooter. I love it! I've already put 270 miles on it
Sweet! 💚It's addicting. I got my 1st on March 1st and it's 150cc Chinese thing, vespa knock off. 1600 miles already. Ridiculously fun.
Any scooter can do this stuff... but the Helix is the most COMFORTABLE scooter ever. People really can't understand until they ride one
The best scooter I have ever owned was a jajue terra 50cc moped it's was the most comfortable bike I have ever owned my peace sports 150cc is pretty pokey for having 12 HP but the suspension is the weak link
bmW C400GT is here to reclaim that title.
I have owned many motorcycles and scooters. I enjoy traveling on my Helix, they are so amazing and fun to ride.
I spent a year in Vietnam and had a Yamaha NVX to get around. Honestly would love to see maxi scooters like these be more common commuter options here in the states they're just so practical in the right climates.
I've taken mine, loaded with camping gear, thousands of miles. They have a few drawbacks for long distance hauls(small tank), but mine has never let me down.
"I was drag-racing. I'm a drag-racer."
"You were drag-racing? On a Helix?"
"I...don't win a lot."
As Uncle Voodoo says, I want a bike that floats around corners instead of attacking them. It's a different vibe with scooters, you have to go with the flow. 👍🇦🇺
I have an 05 Big Ruckus that I love. I wish it had storage like that. If I had one nitpick it would be the turning radius. It s like turning around a container ship in my tight carport/ driveway compared to my Vespa P200. But once in the road, there’s nothing more comfy on two wheels to cruise on.
Now you gotta do the Suzuki 650 Burgman. A real road riding scooter. Great Honda Helix scooter and review.
Burgmans are nice I prefer the reliability of Honda. Ride the Honda Silverwing 600 Myself
@@AndyMoss100lol suzukis are unbreakable.
My wife and I had a Helix for years and it was so practical for getting around town. We would ride 2-up pretty often too, although the suspension was not as happy with two adult Americans on board! I saw Helixes around Japan when I was there in the mid-90s and they had crazy huge gauntlets built in to the handgrips, I guess so that you wouldn't lose your gloves, just stick your hands into the gauntlets and go. And the trunk really adds a lot of utility. A lot.
Maxi-scooters are great bikes. Love my 03 Burgman 400. Makes a great little grocery getter and commuter vehicle.
What does maxi mean?
@@ImSrry4BeingWhite Generally a scooter with roughly 250-300cc displacement or greater.
I had all the Honda scooters, and the Honda Helix was the last scooter I had. I loved it so much, my Honda Helix was a 1992 model, and I had it until 2000, selling it was the worst deal I ever made. I still miss my Honda Helix. Greetings from Buenos Aires, Argentina !
I've always been a sport bike guy but for my daily commute I ride a Burgman. Maxi scooters for the win! Keep more scooter content coming
here in the Philippines where scooters are more common than mc's as your primary 2 wheel ride I agree. your vids helped me a lot when i was just starting to ride (and that was a year ago). im happy you already featured 2 scooters just this month already.
lets ride 😊
How common are scooters with engines larger than 150 or 200cc in the Philippines?
A few years ago, I took my bike to a shop, and the owner had one of these. I thought it looked cool, and nerdy... a bit Robocop like. He insisted I take it for a spin, and was I pleasantly surprised, at the comfort, and ease of riding. With Honda doing retro bikes nowadays, it would be nice to see this in the lineup.
Glad im not the only one who caught the Honda scooter craze. Ive kept my k6 gixxer put up much more than i ever anticipated once i got my hands on a 2000 49cc SA50 Elite. I think you should make a scooter series. The elite, zuma, express, jog, razz, vespa, dio, etc, etc. All the classics. I mean shit, these could all be banned within the near future due to emission standards. I dread the thought. Stay 2 wheels down guys!!
The Helix was my first "Motorcycle"!
I took an uber an hour and a half into the country to buy one for like 800 bucks
I dropped it once and slid 20 feet and the fairings kept me from touching the group completely, only scuffed the edges of the fairing.
My only gripe about the Helix (and Elite) are the small tires. Rides can get the adrenaline going on the wrong surface conditions.
Honda Scoot Life! Helix is fun needed a Little more Power but Maintain Comfort I got a 2006 Honda Silverwing 600 😎 Love The Ride Comfort And Reliability
Scooters are so convenient for commuting! Love my 2009 Zuma, I ride it a lot more than my Ninja.
That’s just SO awesome. My 2023 Honda Click 160 is the Master of St Louis City streets. Brought over from Indonesia-Get looks everywhere I go. Black too so it’s Stealthy. Nice retro ride Yammie
My first bike is on order and it is the grandchild of the Helix. The ADV 350. A massive seller for Honda and I for one can see the lineage from the Helix to the ADV 350. Fun times ahead.
I own a Honda Reflex and love it, I also just got a Piaggio X9 500 cc scooter. I love my scooters. Put over 12,000 miles in 3 years on the Honda. So glad ya did a scooter video.
I was delighted to see this video on your channel today! Finally got me to sub. I have owned every thing from HD's to full bagger touring bike, Yamaha Venture Royal with the V-Max motor! Age and permanent injury has forced me onto lightweight machines which has left me with a scooter and a Suzuki S40 thumper. When I got my scooter, 150cc Kymko Vespa clone, I thought I would hate but at least stay on two wheels. I have been riding since 10 years old. The scooter turned into a love affair. In town it is the perfect errand and grocery fetcher. There is something about low powered small wheel scooters that make you feel like a super bike racer going the speed limit. When I am physically able I spend time in the countryside with my S40 enjoying the torque of the big thumper. But if I get to where I can have only one bike, it will be a scooter and I never thought I would say that. I hope you dive deeper into this alternative world of two wheeled fun with regular segments. Yamaha made an unusual art deco era aero styled scooter called the Morphous I believe. It also has a long wheelbase a 250cc engine and smallish wheels. Check it out. If I can find one of those I will buy it as it is much younger than the Helix and it is fuel injected I believe. It would also be fascinating to see what you think after testing the Kymko AK550 twin with belt drive.
I’ve had a couple of friends just transition from motorcycles to scooters. I still don’t get it. Some look good, but most don’t. And the lean and ride on motorcycles is just more fun!
Just ride one for a few days. You'll just be looking for reasons to go anywhere. 😂
I love the Honda Helix! I had a 2006 a couple of years ago, and it's the only bike that I truly regret selling.
One correction for you though. It only has a 12 inch rim on the front wheel. The rear wheel is a tiny 10 inch rim. The rear wheel is (in my opinion) the only weak point. the rear tire valve is a pain to reach, and all the weight at the back wears that tiny rear tire out fairly quick.
But, it's still my favorite bike I ever had. I haven't found another one for a decent price since.
You’re right sbout the air stem and how quickly it wesrs out. 4000 miles usually.
I just got a Honda Elite CH80 scooter and it’s s freaking fun to ride around town! Retro 80’s look too
Super cool to see Yammie trying something outside his comfort zone! I’d love to see Honda do an update on the classic Helix.
I would love to see your take on the 80's/90's Honda Pacific Coast (PC800) - the "not a scooter" but ultimately known as a "Super Scooter" due to its functionality. A real cross between scooter/motorcycle/car, with a watertight trunk darn close to the size of a first gen Miata and "gentlemanly" manners for riding. Definitely not a sport bike, built truly for commuting over distance.
I just got one 6 months ago and I'm doing a full oem motor rebuild. I absolutely love the helix, it's such an awesome scooter😁
My dad had one in gray from '89 till '95 it was a blast. He says that Honda Forza is wery much like that Honda
Enjoyed watching that - reminded me of my old one I had a few years ago. When I sold it the buyer turned up and used an angle grinder to cut it in half on front of me to put it in his car! Said he was sending it to India for parts.
Love that your playing around with scooters. I've been thinking about getting back into 2 wheel riding. If I do it'll probably be a scooter. Not saying to turning this channel into a scooter channel, but I'd love to see a ride and thoughts video of the Piaggio MP3 530.
Loving the scooter content. Like many I joked on them for years. My bro picked up a Yamaha zuma 125 and that thing changed my mind. With touring bikes getting more and more expensive I’m seriously considering getting a Yamaha xmax 300. Would still ride the motorcycle for shorter spirited rides. But when you think about it a maxi scooter like the xmax is basically an affordable touring bike. Tons of storage, wind protection, good tech, comfortable. Highway capable
I had a 1987 Helix, the CN250 engine has no oil filter, Just drain the oil and fill with 1 quart every 1000 miles. No problem.
This, and the Honda PC800 Pacific Coast are on my want list. And an Ascot VT500.
Man I love scooters….I started out with a Honda ruckus 50!!! Then went to a 2011 Honda pc125, then a burgman 400, then finally a newer gen burgman 650👍🏻👍🏻 working on getting a Honda silverwing since I’ve never had one and currently have no scooter!
got an 86 helix and an 82 Aero125 for free, got them running and they are an absolute blast
16:45 yes, Groms and other small dualsports are nerve-racking on a highway, especially on windy days
Literally went and bought one today. Thanks, Yam. What kind of phone mount do you have on the dash, and how did you mount it?
Great video. I have a 16 Roadglide and a 19 KLR 650. I bought a 05 Suzuki Burgman 650 last summer and I ride it 90% of the time. I would have never thought I would like a scooter...they're a blast. 52y/o btw.
I bought my1987 Honda Honda Helix 250. Up to this date I’d never have owned a scooter. I loved this scooter until I got a new job at General Millls in 1991. I got a lot of slack about riding a scooter when most riders were riding Harleys. I sold it and quit riding for many yrs there after. I remember bringing home a 17 lb watermelon in the rear trunk with ease..👍 It was a remarkable scooter wishing I still had it today.🤔😬
North-Americans discovering scooters in 2023. What's next? Kei cars? Social-democracy? Universal healthcare?
As a long time scooterbro, all I can say is YES. My wife and I have done some epic rides (up canyons on dirt roads, carrying more groceries than a store can provide...) and all on a 150. As for maneuverability, few things are more fun than doing a u-turn flex by doing circles *within* a single parking space.
Scooters are really fun. Different vibe when we show up at bikers night...
Time for Yam to get himself a Helix to use as a daily rider.
Yeah I 'upgraded' from a 2005 Kawasaki KLR 250 to a 1986 Helix for my 30-mile workday commute. Never looked back!
I have a PCX125 and tbh I think it's just enough for me, the longest ride I've done is50 miles and even though it takes me1hr 20 minutes it never feels like it... But once I have paid her off ,then I will think about getting my A1 license so I can jump up to a 400 cc ..
Same tires I ran on my helix! I ran over 7500 miles in about 10 months of ownership.
I loved the scooter I had! Killed it testing it like a dirt bike, got mud in crank case...
My dude, Papa Yamms, you are across town from Scooter 911, who sells, services, and races scoots. He’s also got his own respectable channel. Can we maybe see a collab? I would die of joy.
I learned a lot from that dude. Excellent for anyone wrenching on their own. There's not a lot of good scooter content out there, but he's legit.
I worked on these back in 90s when I worked in a Honda Yamaha dealership. Nobody in a bike shop likes working on scooters or test driving them but I have to admit after driving one on the highway they are somewhat fun I now know what it would be like if Lazy Boy built a motorcycle.
One of the first maxi-scooters along with the Piaggio Hexagon. And no doubt inspiration for bikes like the Suzuki Burgman.
have one too end enjoy every ride in the eastern swiss mountains. ❤ Has too little power but is the most comfortable scooter you can imagine.
I've wanted one, my Suzuki TC90 is a magical bike but I need that Honda reliability and freeway speed.
I was looking into getting one of these but picked up a Aprilia Scarabeo 250cc instead. That scooter was awesome and powerful.
The gold wing of Scooters
If you like the helix you will love a Burgman Executive 650 it has power adjustable windscreen and if you get the perfect one heated grips and seat and it has more power and a max speed of 110MPH
You should check out the Suzuki Bergman 650. That thing out accelerates some sport bikes and also all Harley’s while looking like a Ninja 250 made love to a Lazy Boy recliner.
You should try out a vespa gtv 300. It has a lot of the same handling characteristics you describe here, and although it looks like something that would sit comfortably by a bike rack actually keeps up with interstate traffic. It's wild.
I have a 2004 Helix in addition to two conventional motorcycles. I love my Helix.
Helix and Silverwing ... Great bikes
I don’t get it Yam…so wait, what makes it cool is the retro-digital dash, watertight storage, AKIRA-like styling, comfortable, long wheelbase, recumbent ride? You just described my bike, the Honda NM4/Vultus, except the NM4 is 745cc and can do a hundred easy, and was actually based on Akira. It’s also the bike you unceremoniously 💩 on in an older vid. I think you owe it an apology….and a second look.
I was riding my Goldwing on Iron Mountain Road in the Black Hills last week and came up on a woman riding a Helix. I hadn’t seen one in probably my 30 years.
This was my first "bike" when I went to high school. I had a 1989 in 1995. My parents said if I don't wreck it for 1 school year I could a real motorcycle. I made it and my dad went with to buy a 1986 V65 magna. My senior year was legendary. People didn't know the old Honda could spank their z28s an GT Mustangs.
The crazy thing is I was given 2 scooters one of them being a Yamaha Zuma bugeye .. the other one is a clone of a Suzuki let's 2 zz ..... Which then led me down a rabbit hole applying a parts bike thinking I can upgrade one of the other bikes but then ended up turning it into a custom ... It was designed to mimic the Honda reflex but the frame in the motor are more Honda Helix... The motor is a vertical motor and it is the cn250 just like the Honda for some people refer to it has the CFMOTO 250....
From being a person who likes sport bikes two-stroke 50CC scooters are a blast....
What the new one is stripped evolve it's extra weight and is a 250cc which makes it feel like a rocket ....
As long as you can suck up the dorkycoolness of a scooter and and don't look like a Harley Rider they are quite fun.... I just rock it like it's my d flying out..... 0 Fs to give .... If you guys want to miss out on the fun that's your choice
Maxi scooters are really the ultimate useful motorcycles. Smooth, quiet, efficient, clean, simple, fast... Shame the Burgman isn't in production anymore.....
Oh, but they are! 200s and 400s are still made. The 650 was discontinued, though. I had a 200 and it's peppy! I've got an XMAX 300 now. Also a great scoot.
Always wanted one of these in the 80
Almost every scooter ever, despite having a carburetor, has an "auto choke" actually an auto enrichener. It is a small fuel needle that only closes when power has been to it for more than a minute, it heats up and expands the needle closed
Ya. I have a Burgman 200 I rip around on. It’s a hoot and convenient. I ride it more than my T700 because I use it as a car.
13:38 Scooters truely give that feeling of false safety. I also got unpleasantly surprised when my "cute" 1,5kW (2hp) electric scooter suddenly started a rear wheel burnout on a damp roundabout. That certainly made me respect that little thing (at least a little) more
That's a really cool scooter wow it just hit different 😍
I'm almost convinced this would be a more fun daily than my ZH2....😢 if this video came out a few months ago, I could have saved a lot of money!!
Boots and shorts guy!
The Honda Helix was my all-time favorite bike/scooter. I wish Honda would come out with a 500cc Helix. Great 250çc scooter.
Yes. Once Ego gets out of your way? A maxi scooter will take you to another world of adventure filled with flickable agility and effing glee.
That machine is pure genious.
Only thing wrong with the break down at the beginning is it is water cooled not air cooled. Also they were produced every year from 87 all the way too 07 they didint stop production throughout that time frame.
The HEALTH shirt! Hell yeah.
Never thought I'd see a guy like Yammie Noob selling his broken turbobusa, saying he is off dirt bikes forever, and then saying scooters are great fun. But the truth is, they are. The twist-n-go automatic CVT is great fun and easy to to drive in sticky situations of the city, while focusing 100% on the traffic and environment, and practically 0% to the bike you are riding.
If you think that is nimble Yammie, ride a Vespa! Shorter wheelbase, small wheels, very flickable. Does the Helix have a trailing link front suspension, a la Vespa? By the way, I usually wear all my gear when I ride my Primavera 150. Maybe try riding some bigger engined maxi scooters? Burgman maybe? As for the brake on the floor, a lot of the older scooters had the rear brake on the floor. Look at old Vespas for example. If the Helix does have a trailing link suspension, that would explain the lack of nose dive when braking. I love my Vespa Primavera 150!
I totally need a Helix or one of its successors in my life! Also I'm curious if you've ever tried any of the newer ones like a Suzuki Burgman. They even make one with a 650 now, sounds like pure luxury.
I have a Yamaha Majesty 400. Maybe just a little less cargo than the Helix but still so nice.
I got pulled over for speeding on a Honda Helix in the twisties. The State Police officer walked up to the Helix on the side of the road and burst out laughing. No ticket. I was doing 65 in a 35 zone.
Looks like a snowmobile with wheels lol. Pretty sweet how nimble it is I see why my old boss had 2 of them now
this is the coolest thing iv ever seen
Yay scooters! Yamaha XMax 4 lifeee
had that in the 80s.....when i used it as a courier....the left over is at my mums place, that i gave to my younger brother.
I promise you, no cows were harmed in the making of that "leather" seat.
Got an 87 helix. Ride it daily in the summer . If no t-storms.. get addicted
So hugly, so perfect
Yammie want to try the ultimate scooter? I just bought a aprilia mana 850 , my wife love's that thing, so easy to ride and kind of likening better than my tuono.
A friend's brother had one in highschool. The friend had a rebel 250. Which i thought was strange because the brother with the scooter was the oldest. Lol
guys lets wait until he finds about Yamaha TMax, Honda XADV 750, Honda Forza 750, Honda Silverwing 600, Kymco AK550, Suzuki burgman 650, Gilera GP 800, aprilia srv850 etc, wauting for that day ❤
Scooters in the pits, in the hands of the racers, back in the 80s... fun was had, handling boundaries explored... rental cars took a beating, too.
I actually have a 1984 yamaha riva 180 scooter. Its hilarious to ride it will do 60 mph
Scooters are the most confortable bikes ever.period.