My first moped was an Express in the same colour blue! I paid £30 ($35) for it and loved it. It was an early single speed model. Best I could get was 26 mph out of it. Just had a look now on marketplace and can’t believe how many are still running and for sale here in the UK. There’s a lot of love for these bikes, cheap and bulletproof. Lovely story behind your video, glad a new generation will get to enjoy the little moto!!
I bought a basket case 1977, and with a bit of work got it running again. It's hilarious but actually a bit scary to ride with the old suspension and 24" wheels because of the potholes. The clockspring starter is trip too, and when the engine is set up right it only needs 2 cranks and it starts right up. Unfortunately, some parts are now made of unobtainium, that rarest of materials.
The "4-stroke issue" is solved by re-jetting. The engine gets too much gasoline, so a slightly smaller main jet will solve it. You will also get about 1 extra mph =) Been restoring and renovating old Sachs engines for the last 20 years as a hobby, neat machines! Greetings from Sweden
Today, I just picked up a 1980 Honda Express II (NA50). It was given to me by a friend and I am getting pumped watching videos like yours to get started on getting it working and out on the road. Although, I won't be test driving it to the University of Utah, where I went to school in the 90's. Been there done that!
Nice to see a video from you Garret. I enjoyed this one. I've never had a small bike but always find them interesting. I find their size and simplicity appealing.
A real blast from the past - I remember how different these looked compared to my Puch Maxi Luxe back in the 80s and thinking I didn't really want one, but now I sort of do.
Love the video, I have 5 vintage scooters , one is an 82 Yamaha Towny 6vt...this is first time I've ever heard of the electronic flasher relay I CANT WAIT TO TRY IT.....THX
Good to see you posting again, I fixed up one of these a few years ago. I loved it and used to buzz down to the shops to get milk. I did let it go eventually but still have fond memories.
The 4 stroking would be the governor. Honda seemed to jet these bikes rich and the oil pump is known to pump too much oil at full throttle and both contribute to the four stroking on these bikes. I like the electronic flasher relay. It's an internal chain drive 1 speed transmission and not CVT.
Fantastic that the bike is going to be used by the second generation! I helped a kid in my town with some moped parts for a bike that his grandfather AND mother had ridden, so he was going to be the 3rd generation rider. Way cooler than selling it to a stranger I'm my opinion. I'm trying to get my pregnant daughter to take my 1979 Motron Medalist out for a ride down the street for a quick trip so I can say 3 generations rode my bike. Ok, so the baby won't be born for 4 months, but I he/she will be riding in thought. Sort of.
I really loved this video I miss the two Tomos mopeds I owned in Ocean City, Maryland In the 80's. Thanks again for another great video Mark from Maryland
My wife got one of these in 1979 to comute to the school where she taught. It was orange and we both loved it. I wish we had bought a second one. So much fun for so little money. Wish Honda would reintroduce the Express. We would buy two.
CX500 up by the door! A CX was my first bike, an 1980 Custom in metal flake dark bronze. Such a great bike, smooth, quick, quiet and looked great! Another first that I wish I had kept. I hope that is yours. After all the bikes I owned in the last 35 yrs, that CX is still my favorite.
Hi, I had a 1980 Honda II it had the Banana looking bigger seat. I was 14 it was brand new when i got it April1980 I put 10k on it in one year!! Your bike should have easily taken that hill and got up to speed. Maybe needs a little adjustment? These really need to go at least 30 mph. Cars behind you get pissed when you only go 25mph... messed with mine constantly! Was told back in the day they had a Govenor on them?? How can we eliminate the 4 Stroking ?? What is your suggestion? Had it to where mine went 34 on the flats. and 36-39 down hills. Loosened the exhaust helped alot. A friend put on a Honda header made for this model it made a 2mph difference. Messed with carburetor alot. I have 4 of them now need to get them out for the summer. Thanks
Thats definitely a BA looking bike id love to cruise around the neighborhood in something like that.... and its a honda. Can't believe its an 81 and can still live out its life like that... that says a lot about the quality of bikes back then compared to now. Cool video 📹 😎
I just bought a 1982 Suzuki FA50 that was only showing 780 miles on the OD from what I heard about the history of the bike from the previous owners I believe it to be accurate(kids uncle took it as a trade in at some point and it sat in his shop for an unknown amount of years before the kid i bought it from got it about a year ago and got her running like new again) It is absolutely a blast to ride. Even though the more modern moped i used to have would go about 10mph faster the 14" wheels on the Suzuki make it waaaay more fun to ride!
These were often called NoPeds, because you Don't Pedal start then like zouch or Sachs, I'm a bit older than you & most of the commenters, I was riding and Restoring these little machines back in 1998, you Don't Kick the starter, you just sit on the bike and Step on pedal and push down a few times, Easy and a lot less work . Many of the ones i worked on , had burned out Headlights , the 6v battery is the voltage Regulator, a missing / dead dryed out battery created a Too High system voltage when the engine reved up, instantly burning out headlamps and bulbs, i found that most would get up too 32mph on flat ground, if i took the time to clean the built up carbon out of the exhaust, soaking the exhaust in safety solvent overnight to clean it out was a big help, using modern 2 stroke injector oil, Not 70's weed eater oil, keeps exhaust clean, installing an after market Expansion scavenging exhaust provides an increase of power and speed , especially take off tourqe, Models NX50 NA50 , Urban Express 12v with Electric Start , and the SR Express which has the Traditional Plastic Body panel scooter design,
I think I put a 1000 miles on my Express loved it! At night I would push the center stand down while riding a blow a trail of sparks behind me. Back in the day you could fill the fuel tank up for 75 cents and go all day.
Garret.....welcome back man. Hope the holidays are going great for you and yours brother. This is a great Christmas present for me man. Please make more videos soon. Do you have any views of the cvt case interior? It would be cool to see the mechanics of it. Either way, thanks for your services.
I acquired a 1980 express just like this one. I just took off my side case, because I had no idea about the ratcheting kick starter! I was puzzled. Now I can put it back together and see about starting it !! I did make a video that I will post soon. The internal chain drive system is very unique.
My honda express II had the same kick start system. I ended up selling it because the suspension wasn't made for 220 pound man and my spine hated the bumps.
Information from the Moped Army. The starter mechanism was complex, fragile, and prone to failure. Even with a regular kick starter a 50cc 2 stroke can be started with your hand.
Tray cool. I learned on a step-thru in 1962 at SUI as U Iowa was then known. Just like the song. First gear- its all right, second gear- hang on tight. . . .
Unfortunately not unless you have alloy wheels. The air will leak out from where the spokes meet the rim. The tires and tubes are pretty easy to replace yourself though!
i had a 1978 or 79 honda roadpal which is the same as the express that had traveled from an air force base in japan back to america when the previous owner returned ...sadly it was stolen out of my shed ..i miss that thing she was a blast
had two of these when i was a kid; one yellow, one blue ... the dealer would cut open mufflers, remove governors, weld back together and they would run 45mph easy on a flat, with little or no wind ... they had weak frames and the racks for the gas tanks would break the mounts, a weld would fix for a while but they would break again; probably should have kept them off the trails ... currently own two wolf rc-50s and will probably own at least one scooter / moped until i die
Is it a good move , putting that much electrical circuitry so close to the petrol tank, I did own one many years ago , and they were fabulous, it got me to work for many years , and it saved me a lot of money and travelling time , , thank you honda , 😊😊😊
nice video i do have a 1979 honda express i was wondering if i can replace the 6 volt turn signal to a 12 volt turn signal?will it hurt the wirings or burn anything?thank you....
@GarretSeesing Congratulations on the new shop! Also, I just was wondering IF Project Tao Tao Is done, like you're going to finish Project Tao Tao??? Thanks In Advance.
Tomorrow starting work on my SIM Mio 100,.. starts beautifully driving the backwheel turns crazy fast, when I stop it won’t start again until it has cooled off about an hour by the roadside, no idea any suggestion more then welcome
Nice, I just got the same bike, same year, same color and a similar story. I was trying to see if there was a governor because mine is the same, right at 25 it will bog like that. I figured if there is one it's designed in the motor function, when it hits that engine speed.
I think it's possible the 'Simpson' mopeds and Schwalbe was of similar kicktart design... :) Cool machine there! Also spied a CX500 there too.. Love mine. almost 90k miles on mine now! And.. you don't look almost 16 stone!
Most Simsons I can think of/own have a traditional ratchet-and-spring kickstart. That fancy mechanism didn't fit into East German cost rationalisation - nor did an automatic clutch.
Hope you can help me out. I got the electronic el 12, 2p 12v flasher ( says 30521). Napa said it’s the same as yours. When installed i can hear the flasher relay click. Blinkers don’t work. Thanks
How many miles does it have? I got for free at a job 2 of the later 2 speed NA50s one with 800 miles that runs great and one with 300 miles that had been left apart outside and ruined.
I had one of those when I was about 10 years old. I lived on a farm, so it wasn’t an issue… and it was early 80’s, so whatever. Lol Mine was orange. Can’t remember what happened to it…
I had a urban express did high 30s with almost 40 with a mlm pipe and I highly recommend deleting the injection system and running premix the injection system could fail anytime my urban was stolen from me also run a smaller jet they jetted them rich
Sounds like the clutch needs new / stiffer springs. Surely it shouldn’t bog down that badly. I had a 4 stroke Honda moped and it’s clutch also engaged earlier as it got hot and the springs softened … I cut down the ribs in the transmission case to let the air from the fan on the variator nlow through to the clutch and it really helped.
I need help. I have a power rider SL 250. It turns on and the lights turn on. It makes a beep sound. I try to turn the key to start it up and it won't turn all the way. Can you help me. I live in Chicago and would like to take it to be looked at but I don't know where to go. I'm very lost. I pray you can help me. Thank you for your attention 😢😢
I've got one from 81 and I need to know where I can get parts it still runs and all but not as good as it should and I wanna renew it I do use it to go to work
@@Scooter_911 awesome. Bro I’ve had mine for 2 years with no breakdowns. I’m at 16k km. I think I just got really lucky. Like maybe the luckiest tao tao atm of all time. Only had to replace the exhaust and the tires.
@@JumpFloater4 After much research and seeing Garrets Tao Tao playlist I bought a "Razor 150" which is a 150cc China scooter made by Dong Fang for the low price of 1,200 with shipping. I freaking Love it and haven't had any problems with it in the 6 months I've had it. I've added a few things, like given it LED lights, new mirrors, 12v cigarette style plug for my mini air compressor which fits under the seat, a dual 5v 3.0 usb charging port, and added a remote controlled alarm system and holders for my two cell phones, one for speedometer and trip counter and the other for GPS. Now if I can only figure out how to mount the 600 watt amp and pair of 6 inch Bazooka speakers I have.. LOL
@@DivergentDroid very nice’ just be careful adding mechanical mods to the bike. A lot of the Chinese scooters weren’t meant for custom parts like German and US mods. But the exterior accessories you were adding seemed fine. My buddy threw a booster kit on his 50cc scooter and it killed it.
@@JumpFloater4 I believe what Garret said once.. if something breaks it's just a reason to replace it with a better part. There are tons of GY6 parts that will work on my bike, like carbs, CDI's for replacement. I have no need to use a big bore kit or anything like that. Most I wanna do is remove any restrictions. I can also fine tune the CVT and change the exhaust if needed when fine tuning the carb. I have 40 different service manuals on the GY6. I made sure I could get parts for it before I bought it.
ive got one of these with the spring starter. the stock carb is a nightmare and i could never ever get it right. It cant be rejetted either, so once the orifices are wore out from years of "cleaning" wires....you are kinda screwed. Some of the oem carbs can be jetted some cant. Roll of the dice....
Very nice video. In the days of electric bicycles, these things are obsolete. However, in 40 years, I bet the electric bicycles of today will be in a landfill somewhere and this Honda 50 will still be putting along being handed down to the next generation.
@@amatureskater15 obsolete in sense where there are less restrictions as of now in most states for electric bikes. In my state mopeds require registration, insurance and license. Where electric bikes do not-less hassle.
@@calres8626 yea.... but how long till that ends? because they are faster than most 50cc mopeds. Most E-bikes are actually illegal ( they go to fast )haha
I just picked up a Honda Express 2 and it has the wind up Kickstart as well. The problem being the guy that owned it before me took out a gear just underneath the kickstart lever. I have the gear and a couple springs but I'm not sure how to put them back in to get the kickstart wind up feature functioning again. Any advice?
Very interesting how the fuel tank is in the rear. Guessing you have to get used to seeing so much road between your knees. Is that skinny frame a bit unnerving at first?
The starter setup is brilliant, spinning that engine up much higher rpms than you would be able to, which would atomize fuel alot better to optimize the startup. Plus oil injection in 1980? Typical Honda innovation. Love it.
All the first Express were wind up kick, not too reliable, even back in the day....2 years later went to more reliable kick start. They have a 30mph restrictor😎 Honda Camino/Hobbit were and still are nicer stock, proper vario drive, bigger wheels for a much nicer ride and pull better...loads of tuning options if you feel the need.
Weird trick for speed HELLO.. While you are cruising reach down and turn off the Gas. When it starts to run out your speed will increase major for about 5 seconds. Then turn on the fuel again.. What cause that ??
*My '08 Honda 'Metropolitan' looks and performs 'showroom fresh' and the liquid-cooled 'Mighty Fifty' has no problems w/hills. although it will bring it down to as low as 20-mph if it's is very steep* *And yeah, I weigh 230lbs!* __________ *Engine/Exhaust are 'factory' but I did upgrade the jetting and install 'Polini Variator/Dr. Pulley sliders at 34grams total/high performance 'forever' air filter/10/40 full synthetic/Kevlar CVT/Malossi clutch/and always 93-octane w/1-tbs. of octane-booster/and a 14-inch wind-screen which gives a permanent 1.2 mph gain from much smoother air-flow* *I can hit 42-mph on smooth roads w/light winds!* *I'm 68 and have never owned any vehicle of any kind as reliable as my Honda* *It 'goes with the house' when I 'croak my last croak'* ( *The mirrors look 'standing still' at any speed...now that's smoooooth!* )
I had an ugly orange moped I would say 80s, that had a similar kickstart mech. To it. Worked great during cold starts, but it went into a shop and never saw it again, that thing topped out at about 45 before it started being starved for fuel.
My first moped was an Express in the same colour blue! I paid £30 ($35) for it and loved it. It was an early single speed model. Best I could get was 26 mph out of it. Just had a look now on marketplace and can’t believe how many are still running and for sale here in the UK. There’s a lot of love for these bikes, cheap and bulletproof. Lovely story behind your video, glad a new generation will get to enjoy the little moto!!
I bought a basket case 1977, and with a bit of work got it running again. It's hilarious but actually a bit scary to ride with the old suspension and 24" wheels because of the potholes. The clockspring starter is trip too, and when the engine is set up right it only needs 2 cranks and it starts right up. Unfortunately, some parts are now made of unobtainium, that rarest of materials.
Lmfao
The "4-stroke issue" is solved by re-jetting. The engine gets too much gasoline, so a slightly smaller main jet will solve it. You will also get about 1 extra mph =) Been restoring and renovating old Sachs engines for the last 20 years as a hobby, neat machines!
Greetings from Sweden
Any shop that doesn't understand how to jet a bike shouldn't touch a bike
He bloody says that in the video, but they want to keep it as original as possible.
That's one adorable moped, also glad to see you again
Glad to be back
Today, I just picked up a 1980 Honda Express II (NA50). It was given to me by a friend and I am getting pumped watching videos like yours to get started on getting it working and out on the road. Although, I won't be test driving it to the University of Utah, where I went to school in the 90's. Been there done that!
I had an Orange Express II in the late 90’s here in South Africa. With the same wind up kickstarter. I think I paid R1200.00 for it. Loved that moped!
Nice to see a video from you Garret. I enjoyed this one. I've never had a small bike but always find them interesting. I find their size and simplicity appealing.
Glad you enjoyed it!
@@Scooter_911 my motorized bike can out run this thing
do you prefer honda express or the taotao?@@Scooter_911
I had one of these 35 years ago. I'd love to have it back again.
They're such great bikes!
I have one I’m selling for 1k
a feature I've never seen before: was a fantastic feature !!!!!!
@@klausbrinck2137 so dignified!
A real blast from the past - I remember how different these looked compared to my Puch Maxi Luxe back in the 80s and thinking I didn't really want one, but now I sort of do.
Pick one up before they become super collectible!
Great road test, very scenic. Moped sounds great.
Soooo glad you are back!
Glad to be back with you!
That sure was a nice little bike. Glad to see it’s still going to continue to be a part of the owners family. That’s awesome
Love the video, I have 5 vintage scooters , one is an 82 Yamaha Towny 6vt...this is first time I've ever heard of the electronic flasher relay I CANT WAIT TO TRY IT.....THX
Good to see you posting again, I fixed up one of these a few years ago. I loved it and used to buzz down to the shops to get milk. I did let it go eventually but still have fond memories.
The 4 stroking would be the governor. Honda seemed to jet these bikes rich and the oil pump is known to pump too much oil at full throttle and both contribute to the four stroking on these bikes. I like the electronic flasher relay. It's an internal chain drive 1 speed transmission and not CVT.
Fantastic that the bike is going to be used by the second generation! I helped a kid in my town with some moped parts for a bike that his grandfather AND mother had ridden, so he was going to be the 3rd generation rider. Way cooler than selling it to a stranger I'm my opinion.
I'm trying to get my pregnant daughter to take my 1979 Motron Medalist out for a ride down the street for a quick trip so I can say 3 generations rode my bike. Ok, so the baby won't be born for 4 months, but I he/she will be riding in thought. Sort of.
I really loved this video
I miss the two Tomos mopeds I owned in Ocean City, Maryland
In the 80's. Thanks again for another great video
Mark from Maryland
Great to see you back, I love to see the breakdown of one and a revist of the the living with a tao tao
Well it's about time
Been ages since you put a video out
How's the Tao Tao
Waiting for a few final pieces to come together. She'll be back up and running here shortly. Just been pretty busy getting settled into the shop
@@Scooter_911 looking forward to new videos in 2022👌
My wife got one of these in 1979 to comute to the school where she taught. It was orange and we both loved it. I wish we had bought a second one. So much fun for so little money. Wish Honda would reintroduce the Express. We would buy two.
Bro i'm glad you're back
glad to be back!
Thats one awesome piece of motorcycle history .... Merry Christmas boo-boo
Merry Christmas to you and your family and a happy new year.
Greetings from Scotland. I own a 1979 Honda Express NC50, it's orange and didn't come with factory Turn signals.
I just got '77 today. Mine is orange also no turn signals. Only has 183 original miles. Hopefully I can make it run
@@Dookie_burner Cool
Nice to see you're in Austin and in a longer season area... im just getting into the hobby and I love your videos
Woah never seen this type of kickstart until now! o.O
Imagine my surprise! I've been feeding myself by fixing bikes since the mid 2000's how could I not have come across this before?!
thumbs up on your video . like the story and history about the moped . and that cool feature .
So glad you’re back Garret. Make more of these please
My FIRST bike, I had an orange one! I loved the wind-up kick start!
that's the exact scooter I wanted when I was 14 but my parents wouldn't let me have!
can you post a link to the flasher module that you used
Good to see again, missed you. What was the final outcome on the Tau Tau? Great video, enjoyed the ride along 👍.
CX500 up by the door! A CX was my first bike, an 1980 Custom in metal flake dark bronze.
Such a great bike, smooth, quick, quiet and looked great! Another first that I wish I had kept.
I hope that is yours. After all the bikes I owned in the last 35 yrs, that CX is still my favorite.
Hi, I had a 1980 Honda II it had the Banana looking bigger seat. I was 14 it was brand new when i got it April1980 I put 10k on it in one year!! Your bike should have easily taken that hill and got up to speed. Maybe needs a little adjustment? These really need to go at least 30 mph. Cars behind you get pissed when you only go 25mph... messed with mine constantly! Was told back in the day they had a Govenor on them?? How can we eliminate the 4 Stroking ?? What is your suggestion? Had it to where mine went 34 on the flats. and 36-39 down hills. Loosened the exhaust helped alot. A friend put on a Honda header made for this model it made a 2mph difference. Messed with carburetor alot. I have 4 of them now need to get them out for the summer. Thanks
Thats definitely a BA looking bike id love to cruise around the neighborhood in something like that.... and its a honda. Can't believe its an 81 and can still live out its life like that... that says a lot about the quality of bikes back then compared to now. Cool video 📹 😎
I just bought a 1982 Suzuki FA50 that was only showing 780 miles on the OD from what I heard about the history of the bike from the previous owners I believe it to be accurate(kids uncle took it as a trade in at some point and it sat in his shop for an unknown amount of years before the kid i bought it from got it about a year ago and got her running like new again) It is absolutely a blast to ride. Even though the more modern moped i used to have would go about 10mph faster the 14" wheels on the Suzuki make it waaaay more fun to ride!
These were often called NoPeds, because you Don't Pedal start then like zouch or Sachs, I'm a bit older than you & most of the commenters, I was riding and Restoring these little machines back in 1998, you Don't Kick the starter, you just sit on the bike and Step on pedal and push down a few times, Easy and a lot less work . Many of the ones i worked on , had burned out Headlights , the 6v battery is the voltage Regulator, a missing / dead dryed out battery created a Too High system voltage when the engine reved up, instantly burning out headlamps and bulbs, i found that most would get up too 32mph on flat ground, if i took the time to clean the built up carbon out of the exhaust, soaking the exhaust in safety solvent overnight to clean it out was a big help, using modern 2 stroke injector oil, Not 70's weed eater oil, keeps exhaust clean, installing an after market Expansion scavenging exhaust provides an increase of power and speed , especially take off tourqe, Models NX50 NA50 , Urban Express 12v with Electric Start , and the SR Express which has the Traditional Plastic Body panel scooter design,
I think I put a 1000 miles on my Express loved it! At night I would push the center stand down while riding a blow a trail of sparks behind me. Back in the day you could fill the fuel tank up for 75 cents and go all day.
Of course we r along!! It’s Garret!
Garret.....welcome back man. Hope the holidays are going great for you and yours brother. This is a great Christmas present for me man. Please make more videos soon. Do you have any views of the cvt case interior? It would be cool to see the mechanics of it. Either way, thanks for your services.
I acquired a 1980 express just like this one. I just took off my side case, because I had no idea about the ratcheting kick starter! I was puzzled. Now I can put it back together and see about starting it !! I did make a video that I will post soon. The internal chain drive system is very unique.
I have this same model which I revived last year. My problem is it has no (really low) power. Is there a remedy? It only has 3235 miles.
My honda express II had the same kick start system. I ended up selling it because the suspension wasn't made for 220 pound man and my spine hated the bumps.
The crank starter system is awesome. Why doesn't everyone use it?
I have no idea! It's so elegant!
Information from the Moped Army. The starter mechanism was complex, fragile, and prone to failure. Even with a regular kick starter a 50cc 2 stroke can be started with your hand.
@@geraldscott4302 Ah.. well now that just tells me someone can take the concept and improve on it. Thanks.
Tray cool. I learned on a step-thru in 1962 at SUI as U Iowa was then known. Just like the song. First gear- its all right, second gear- hang on tight. . . .
I had one when I was younger, I love mind took it every where. Mind went a lot faster then most people that had one without no motor work.
nice video i do have one with busted tires, i was wondering if i could put a tubeless tires in it?
Unfortunately not unless you have alloy wheels. The air will leak out from where the spokes meet the rim. The tires and tubes are pretty easy to replace yourself though!
I have one in orange, 1978. It is slow, but very fun. Very light. Mine doesn’t have any flasher from the factory.
Found one selling for $500 on craigslist with a little different seat and gas tank without the nice back rack or front basket.
i had a 1978 or 79 honda roadpal which is the same as the express that had traveled from an air force base in japan back to america when the previous owner returned ...sadly it was stolen out of my shed ..i miss that thing she was a blast
I have a roadpal. I'm glad to hear of someone else who had one, sorry for the loss though.
had two of these when i was a kid; one yellow, one blue ... the dealer would cut open mufflers, remove governors, weld back together and they would run 45mph easy on a flat, with little or no wind ... they had weak frames and the racks for the gas tanks would break the mounts, a weld would fix for a while but they would break again; probably should have kept them off the trails ... currently own two wolf rc-50s and will probably own at least one scooter / moped until i die
Is it a good move , putting that much electrical circuitry so close to the petrol tank, I did own one many years ago , and they were fabulous, it got me to work for many years , and it saved me a lot of money and travelling time , , thank you honda , 😊😊😊
nice video i do have a 1979 honda express i was wondering if i can replace the 6 volt turn signal to a 12 volt turn signal?will it hurt the wirings or burn anything?thank you....
@GarretSeesing Congratulations on the new shop!
Also, I just was wondering IF Project Tao Tao Is done, like you're going to finish Project Tao Tao???
Thanks In Advance.
It's not over yet! Stay tuned!
That's good news about Project Tao Tao.👏👏👏👍👌🤘
Super cool bike. A good cleaning and detailing would make it great.
Tomorrow starting work on my SIM Mio 100,.. starts beautifully driving the backwheel turns crazy fast, when I stop it won’t start again until it has cooled off about an hour by the roadside, no idea any suggestion more then welcome
Great video and awesome bike. would you have the info on those Michelin tires? and where i could buy them? thanks
Bring back the taotao, it's one of my favourite youtube series!
I've got one that yellow and going to resurrect it. Where's a good place for ordering parts for it.
@@jonathanpierre9825we have a web store! what parts do you need? Shoot us an email at info@scooter911.com and we might be able to help you out
Nice, I just got the same bike, same year, same color and a similar story. I was trying to see if there was a governor because mine is the same, right at 25 it will bog like that. I figured if there is one it's designed in the motor function, when it hits that engine speed.
I'm looking for the video how to mount the front wheel under front fork where are the spacers go? I have a 77 Honda Express that I'm restoring.
I think it's possible the 'Simpson' mopeds and Schwalbe was of similar kicktart design... :)
Cool machine there!
Also spied a CX500 there too.. Love mine. almost 90k miles on mine now!
And.. you don't look almost 16 stone!
That's a keen eye!
Most Simsons I can think of/own have a traditional ratchet-and-spring kickstart. That fancy mechanism didn't fit into East German cost rationalisation - nor did an automatic clutch.
@@timothyb7434 thanks for clarifying. I've only had MZs
@@Blurredman also very nice! I'm working on an IWL Troll, which uses the engine from a MZ ES 150 :-)
@@timothyb7434 aha yes I know of them! Good luck! I've got an 1987 etz250, 1990 etz251 and my current project is a 1972 es250 trophy. Very fun!
Hope you can help me out. I got the electronic el 12, 2p 12v flasher ( says 30521). Napa said it’s the same as yours. When installed i can hear the flasher relay click. Blinkers don’t work. Thanks
How many miles does it have? I got for free at a job 2 of the later 2 speed NA50s one with 800 miles that runs great and one with 300 miles that had been left apart outside and ruined.
A little over 2000 miles
Those came in a ton of colors
I had one of those when I was about 10 years old. I lived on a farm, so it wasn’t an issue… and it was early 80’s, so whatever. Lol Mine was orange. Can’t remember what happened to it…
I had a urban express did high 30s with almost 40 with a mlm pipe and I highly recommend deleting the injection system and running premix the injection system could fail anytime my urban was stolen from me also run a smaller jet they jetted them rich
Low the kick start system. It's a first for me.
Have ridden a similar vision. My wife had a late 80's though. Very same top speed, 25 on the flat!
Sounds like the clutch needs new / stiffer springs. Surely it shouldn’t bog down that badly.
I had a 4 stroke Honda moped and it’s clutch also engaged earlier as it got hot and the springs softened … I cut down the ribs in the transmission case to let the air from the fan on the variator nlow through to the clutch and it really helped.
I need help. I have a power rider SL 250. It turns on and the lights turn on. It makes a beep sound. I try to turn the key to start it up and it won't turn all the way. Can you help me. I live in Chicago and would like to take it to be looked at but I don't know where to go. I'm very lost. I pray you can help me. Thank you for your attention 😢😢
Pretty cool old bike.
Definitely has some serious vibes
Kickstart is trouble if the spring breaks. Honda discontinued it after 1980 for a reason. The spring in Kickstarter is a non serviceable part.
I have one to keep burns battery and lights I changed everything and still do you have any idea about the ground
I'd like to find of of those but the 82 or 83 model with turn signals
I am looking for a moped that goes below 20 mpr. Any recommendations
living in wv I scoff at your definition of steep grade :) my 2 stroke vino tears them up.
I've got one from 81 and I need to know where I can get parts it still runs and all but not as good as it should and I wanna renew it I do use it to go to work
Hey you done with the living with a tao tao segment?
Not yet! Coming back soon!
@@Scooter_911 awesome. Bro I’ve had mine for 2 years with no breakdowns. I’m at 16k km. I think I just got really lucky. Like maybe the luckiest tao tao atm of all time. Only had to replace the exhaust and the tires.
@@JumpFloater4 After much research and seeing Garrets Tao Tao playlist I bought a "Razor 150" which is a 150cc China scooter made by Dong Fang for the low price of 1,200 with shipping. I freaking Love it and haven't had any problems with it in the 6 months I've had it. I've added a few things, like given it LED lights, new mirrors, 12v cigarette style plug for my mini air compressor which fits under the seat, a dual 5v 3.0 usb charging port, and added a remote controlled alarm system and holders for my two cell phones, one for speedometer and trip counter and the other for GPS. Now if I can only figure out how to mount the 600 watt amp and pair of 6 inch Bazooka speakers I have.. LOL
@@DivergentDroid very nice’ just be careful adding mechanical mods to the bike. A lot of the Chinese scooters weren’t meant for custom parts like German and US mods. But the exterior accessories you were adding seemed fine. My buddy threw a booster kit on his 50cc scooter and it killed it.
@@JumpFloater4 I believe what Garret said once.. if something breaks it's just a reason to replace it with a better part. There are tons of GY6 parts that will work on my bike, like carbs, CDI's for replacement. I have no need to use a big bore kit or anything like that. Most I wanna do is remove any restrictions. I can also fine tune the CVT and change the exhaust if needed when fine tuning the carb. I have 40 different service manuals on the GY6. I made sure I could get parts for it before I bought it.
ive got one of these with the spring starter. the stock carb is a nightmare and i could never ever get it right. It cant be rejetted either, so once the orifices are wore out from years of "cleaning" wires....you are kinda screwed. Some of the oem carbs can be jetted some cant. Roll of the dice....
Very nice video. In the days of electric bicycles, these things are obsolete. However, in 40 years, I bet the electric bicycles of today will be in a landfill somewhere and this Honda 50 will still be putting along being handed down to the next generation.
obsolete? if it runs and it's cheap to own...it's never obsolete ;)
@@amatureskater15 obsolete in sense where there are less restrictions as of now in most states for electric bikes. In my state mopeds require registration, insurance and license. Where electric bikes do not-less hassle.
@@calres8626 yea.... but how long till that ends? because they are faster than most 50cc mopeds. Most E-bikes are actually illegal ( they go to fast )haha
@@amatureskater15 you’re right eventually that will change.
@@calres8626 let's hope it doesn't ;)
I'd LIKE to find one of those
There’s one on fb marketplace for $300 near me, no title though. Still might pull the trigger 😝
I always let my Spree warm up for a couples minutes before i drove it
I have a turquoise 1980 Honda Express. It’s running but not as well as that one. I’d like to change out the 6v to a 12v.
I just picked up a Honda Express 2 and it has the wind up Kickstart as well. The problem being the guy that owned it before me took out a gear just underneath the kickstart lever. I have the gear and a couple springs but I'm not sure how to put them back in to get the kickstart wind up feature functioning again. Any advice?
Are you done with the Tao Tao?
Brilliant feature. Why isn't that on more bikes? Forgotten technology...
You meet the nicest people on a Honda:p
Also, what are the options for a big-bore kit on this lol
Very interesting how the fuel tank is in the rear. Guessing you have to get used to seeing so much road between your knees. Is that skinny frame a bit unnerving at first?
The starter setup is brilliant, spinning that engine up much higher rpms than you would be able to, which would atomize fuel alot better to optimize the startup. Plus oil injection in 1980? Typical Honda innovation. Love it.
All the first Express were wind up kick, not too reliable, even back in the day....2 years later went to more reliable kick start.
They have a 30mph restrictor😎
Honda Camino/Hobbit were and still are nicer stock, proper vario drive, bigger wheels for a much nicer ride and pull better...loads of tuning options if you feel the need.
What are one of these worth? I may look at one with 700 miles, 1980 yellow model with registration
What were the dimensions of the tires you bought?
How much would this go for , they are selling one exactly the same in my area for &900 is this a good deal?
Cool old moped.
Man its been a Long time! How is that taotao doing🤣
It's doing...I guess as good as it can be. Video updates coming soon!
I had one of these at one time and got pulled over by police and only had my ID card and didn't know you needed a driver's license
Weird trick for speed HELLO.. While you are cruising reach down and turn off the Gas. When it starts to run out your speed will increase major for about 5 seconds. Then turn on the fuel again.. What cause that ??
Is the TaoTao dead? I've been waiting forever to hear how it's going.
*My '08 Honda 'Metropolitan' looks and performs 'showroom fresh' and the liquid-cooled 'Mighty Fifty' has
no problems w/hills. although it will bring it down to as low as 20-mph if it's is very steep*
*And yeah, I weigh 230lbs!*
__________
*Engine/Exhaust are 'factory' but I did upgrade the jetting and install 'Polini Variator/Dr. Pulley sliders at 34grams total/high performance 'forever' air filter/10/40 full synthetic/Kevlar CVT/Malossi clutch/and always 93-octane w/1-tbs. of octane-booster/and a 14-inch wind-screen which gives a permanent 1.2 mph gain from much smoother air-flow*
*I can hit 42-mph on smooth roads w/light winds!*
*I'm 68 and have never owned any vehicle of any kind as reliable as my Honda*
*It 'goes with the house' when I 'croak my last croak'*
( *The mirrors look 'standing still' at any speed...now that's smoooooth!* )
I had an ugly orange moped I would say 80s, that had a similar kickstart mech. To it. Worked great during cold starts, but it went into a shop and never saw it again, that thing topped out at about 45 before it started being starved for fuel.
I love these