Are there any long term problems with pillion carrying on a 50cc?

Question

I got a nice 50cc bike, it's quite nippy for a 50cc, will do 45mph with two on it on a flat, 25mph up a hill, however I'm worried about any long term problems it may face if it's always (and it will be always) carrying two people on it with a combined weight of about 144kg (22 stone)

What should I look out for? Is there anything I should do to take more care of it?

Thanks for your advice :)

Answer 1

A number of self righteous people prone to preaching on here it would appear.

In a word, no, there are no major problems for the bike in doing what you ask. The biggest issue will be the effect of handling as when you do go up a hill for example having a larger weight on the back will make the front end feel quite light.

The bottom line is that there a number of people in this world who alone weigh 144 Kg and could happily ride the bike alone, though their *** may droop over the side. If two of you are totalling that weight then you are just a couple of average folks.

It may be that you will load the clutch up a bit more when pulling away but that is a fact of life and for the amount of distance you are talking each day then you will still get years out of it. There is no need to change the oil at twice the regular interval or any of that tosh, there are far greater effects on oil degradation in the engine than if you are carrying say an extra 30kg than if just a biggish bloke was riding.

It may be an idea to think about beefier suspenison but wait until the standard ones wear out before spending more money.

If the max weight in the manual says 247Kg then you are just fine. Do the common sense things and look after the bike, servicing regularly and pay good attention to the brakes, suspension and so on.  

Answer 2

Apart from being quite bad for you suspension it is also rather dangerous and annoying - think of all the people that will get stuck behind you up a hill esp if they are unable to overtake safely.

It sounds like you are still only riding on you CBT - if so it is illigal to carry a pillion

  

Answer 3

Your answer is wholly dependent on the engineering of your scoot. I would expect that the first issues you would experience would be with your clutch and suspension. They are going to take a beating. Generally speaking it will be more wear and tear overall as you would expect.

I would suggest checking the manufacturers maximum weight standards for the bike and compare that to your combined weight.  

Answer 4

Aye, keep on top of maintenance and you'll be fine (if perhaps a little uncomfortable). Just take it easy.

Answer 5

More likely to be short term problems mate - thats a lot of weight for 50cc to be lugging around all the time.

Answer 6

That's a lot of weight to be carrying around on a small bike.  Though it's done 'all the time', there are likely going to be longevity problems with the engine and drivetrain as well as the suspension.  

I would recommend you get your time in on this bike and move up to the next license and larger bike.

Answer 7

Your first problems will be clutch no matter what kind. and second will be brakes. Change oil twice as often, use the best synthatic oil if its a 2 stroke. Keep trac of the tires-air pressure- wear (you haven't lived till you almost die with a low tire carrying a passenger. The learning cure is steep. Have fun-stay safe.