New to 250 GS

[xanthmo]

Hi Motor Star! Welcome to the forum  

[drummerben]

Hey Guys--
 
Just wanted to give an update on my ride. Thought I would give some troubleshooting on my "rough ride" experiences. Decided to check the spark plug and found it to be seriously fouled. Got a new one and replaced. Its like riding on a stick of butter now(the comparison, anyway). I'll let you know once I get some miles on it how it does in the long run.

[xanthmo]

What replacement plug did you use?  As I have heard, a spark plug replacement is usually a good first start to modding or maintaining this bike.

Did you have to set the gap on the new plug?

[drummerben]

Yeah--

It was an exact replacement of the factory plug, and yes, I bought a gap gauge to set the gap per manual specs. It cranked right up and ran like a dream. I am off work today and haven't had the opportunity to take the bike out (taking care of my four kids) but I will update as soon as I have given it a good run on the new plug. I also bought a spare plug to keep in my backpack w/ me just in case. Its an easy fix, as well as an easy diagnosis (also cheap fix). Can't hurt to have the part and tools w/ me just in case.

[drummerben]

Hey xanthmo--

You asked whether or not I had tried registration yet. I actually am waiting for the title to get to me from Scooter Dynasty--did you have any problems on that front?

Just wondering.

[xanthmo]

I have not actually tried to register the bike yet.  I have the paperwork, and Scooter Dynasty included a seperate odometer reading sheet, and bill of sale, which I did not receive on the SUNL last year.

I registered the SUNL without a problem.  I sold the scooter, but still have the plate which does not expire until July, so... I know it is not the right or legal thing to do, but I have been using the SUNL plate.

I do have insurance though, which cost me about $75/year through progressive.

[drummerben]

Well...I've actually been concerned about it...just because the Zongshen name is unknown. I had trouble getting financing for the bike because of that. Insurance was a little tough, so I'm wondering if registration is going to be equally as difficult. We'll just have to see.

Hey--have you had to adjust the chain yet? Someone told me that it needs to be done about every 500-600 miles.

[xanthmo]

I have not adjusted the chain yet. Out of the box, it seems too tight, but I am not sure what the actual recommendation on this is.

On previous bikes, I would clean and lube the chain almost daily, especially if riding in rain.  I used a spray on chain lube which I aqcuired from a Honda shop, but I don't remember what it was called.  

Actually, I am pretty uninformed when it comes to the chain on the zongshen, I am going to have to check the chain type when I get home, and research it.  I suspect it to be an o-ring chain, I haven't dealt with any other types.

[motorstar rider]

thanks for the welcome,
here's a pic of my zongshen...

[motorstar rider]

for spark plug replacement i used the denso brand (iridium power) IX24 w/c is compatible w/ the stock plug

[xanthmo]

Hi Motorstar rider,

That is a beautiful bike!  How long have you had it?  

Here in the US, Zongshen only seems to sell the 250 in one color scheme - grey and black.  

My neighbor happens to be Black Magic Customs, and I had a chat with them about possibly applying a new paint scheme - I think you just influenced me to go for it!

Again, awesome bike!  AND, it sounds like you know a little more about the bike than I do, which will be very helpful.

Xanthmo

[motorstar rider]

thanks for appreciating...

i had this for about a year now...locally assembled here we have 3 color schemes to choose from, blue/gray, black/gray and red/gray…

nice to have a customs neighbor, you can even design your own paint scheme..

yes, maybe I could share some useful info about the bike.
We could start from here, if you don’t have it yet…this maybe useful when ordering parts later on or when assembling parts, from zongshen Australia: http://http://www.zongshen.com.au/downloads/ZS250GS.pdf

[Myth]

Well this seems like a large group.  :cry:  
I've been doing some research on the Zongshen.  It seems like a great starter bike! I was wondering however what kind of gas mileage it really gets.
Some places say 100+mpg some say 120mpg.  Which is closer.

These places I've been looking also say that top speed is dependent on weight, so I was wondering how much you fellas weigh so that I might know if it'll go faster with me.  I'm a small frame guy, 120-130lbs...

Well I hope to become a good member of this forum, all I need is my bike.  I think I can get one for about $1500-$1700, assuming the person I talked to is legit.
I'll check in later, and I'll let y'all know just as soon as I get my ride!  

[xanthmo]

Hi Myth,

I am about 160lbs, and I can push the bike up to about 70mph, however, it does start run high in RPMs after about 65mph.

One caveat is that I do recommend you be comfortable with motorcycle maintenance if you are looking to get into riding a chinese motorcycle.  I am sure there are small engine shops that could help you with most problems, but the majority of people riding these bikes usually perform their own maintenance.  I have had 2 china bikes (a SunL and a Zongshen) and so far, I have had only very minor issues, but other riders have experienced more frustrating problems, even right out of the crate.

Good Luck!

Xanthmo

[Myth]

What's up xanthmo.

Have you checked your mpg?  That's one thing I'm really curious about.

I know nothing about working on bikes yet, but the thought doesn't scare me.  Well if I have any trouble I'll probably ask you and motorstar for advice if y'all dont mind...

I'm trying to get a small loan through my bank, so with any luck I may be riding soon.  I'll keep y'all informed.