slow_low_eddie

Hello.

I am looking to park my daily and buy myself a scooter. I love the way the Ruckus looks and I am definitely looking forward into buying one. But! I really have no idea about these things.

First off, what do you guys think about the 2014 model? Since more than likely I'll be going to the dealer to purchase one.

I have a crap load of questions really.

How easy is the maintenance on this thing? What does it consist of? How often? I have seen them modded and will do all that soon enough but it'll be stock for quite some time.

I am really concerned about security. What do you all recommend?

I have seen this forum and another Ruckus forum, wasn't sure which one would have more members that had knowledge on these things.

Thanks!

CXTN

Hey slow_low_eddie, welcome to the Ruckus section!

I was in the same boat as you asking the same questions not too long ago, so maybe I can help.

I think the 2014 model is great. it's brand new of course and you'd be eliminating a lot of headaches (obviously) going that route. However depending on your area, going for a new Ruckus isn't cheap. Sometimes it's downright ridiculously over-priced. I've heard stories of riders picking up a low-miled but still practically new Ruckus from the dealer for about $2600 OTD. Here in SoCal don't expect to be so lucky. On average I've heard most SoCal owners end up paying MSRP, plus tax, title, etc. adding up to ~$3200 for a new Ruckus. IMO that's WAY over-priced for what the Ruckus is.

I was lucky and found my '09 with 52 mi. on the odometer because some doctor owned it and never rode it. I walked out paying $1800 with what was essentially a new scoot. Don't be hesitant to go used, but like any used car, get it checked out by a mechanic who really knows how to work on Ruckus'. You could end up saving a TON of money that would go right towards taking care of maintenance. Which leads me to your next question...

If you are somewhat mechanically inclined wrenching on cars, working on a scooter is a cake walk. The first thing I did was take care of all maintenance even though I wasn't anywhere near the first service interval (600 mi.) With some sockets, torque wrench, spark plug socket and gloves, I was able to change the oil, clean oil screen, spark plug and check the valve alignment in about 1 hour. Overall working on the Ruckus is VERY easy, and there are literally hours upon hours of material, write-ups, guides on how to work on it. Get yourself the service manual online and you'll be set. It lists exactly what the service intervals are and how to do them. Keep the Ruck stock until you get familiar with it. Self-maintaining it is also very in-expensive if you do it yourself. All the work I just listed probably came out to around $25 not including tools.

I personally wouldn't have gotten a Ruck if I couldn't park it off of the street. Like any motorcycle, scooters are even easier to roll onto a truck by thieves and drive away. Make sure you can park it off-street, in a non-visible area, covered area or garage. Chain it down if you have to. When out and about, I always park it where I can see it within eye-shot (front of cafe, outdoor moto parking, etc.)

This forum is great, but I would also check out TotalRuckus. The wealth of knowledge they have over there is amazing and there is a lot of activity. There's also a deep vendor forum that can provide anything you need.

And now a final note...

Make sure you are familiar with your laws regarding the Ruckus or any scooter. Here in CA, you need a full M1 license (not an M2), plates and insurance to be legal. Take the MSF course, you'll get cheaper insurance and learn how to ride safe. Treat the Ruck like any other motorcycle that everyone else on the road has a chance of decimating in a heartbeat. Scary, but true. Get good gear, a jacket, helmet, gloves and ride SAFE. Seriously we don't want to have a post about losing another Ruckster.

Good luck, the Ruckus is loads of fun

Dark_Teg

The Ruckus is way too slow to drive in any traffic IMO. Spend a little more and get a 300 ninja. Check my sig I have both.

CXTN

I use it for my daily commute without a problem and get mine up 45 MPH. As long as you aren't that guy that's in the left hand lane in front of everyone, I don't see the issue.

He also might have different requirements for stepping up to a bike depending on where he's located.

Dark_Teg

I use mine for a pit bike. Is yours supped up mine wont break 35.

CXTN

Nope, bone stock '09 Ruck. Granted I'm about 175 lbs., which I'm finding is on the lighter side of most riders that I talk too. You aren't going to be hitting the rev limiter at 45MPH weighing in at ~250 lbs. on the stock 49cc GET.

CL SLeePeR

How did you find your Ruckus?

CXTN

I searched around my area and areas close by on Craigslist. The search took me almost a month, and I waited a week or so after I checked out the one I liked until buying it. Like I posted earlier I just happened upon a weird situation that was to my advantage.

If you're willing to wait and search for the best deal on a good Ruck, it's out there.

Freemananana

iTrader: (3)

I'm waiting for winter to really start talking to people about buying their ruckus. I know the cold weather will put people in the mood to sell their scooters cheaper. Keep an eye out for a motivated seller.