Potential new owner

[Ceolmar]

Good afternoon, signed up today to research the scooter scene. Due to age (and fry up) related mobility issues I'm having to downsize from R1200RT. Considering SWing, Burger 650 & 400, J300, Forza and any others. Want it for all year round daily commute of 40 miles round trip, shopping and twice or thrice yearly longish trips to the continent for hols.
I've always done my own maintenance and I've got some nice equipment (ahem!) so I'd welcome comparisons on the servicing and reliability front. I'm no knee down merchant - the only thing I scratch is my arse, so speed is less of a concern.
Look forward to your thoughts, regards Pete

[phil y]

Welcome. You'll get plenty of suggestions on what to go for. But what ever you end up with enjoy it

Phil

[rjc1944]

The one time I got my knee down, around 45 years ago, it was quickly followed by my elbow, shoulder, head, handlebars and bike in quick succession, and it hurt! Get yourself test on a T-Max before you decide on something inferior............

Welcome to the gang.

[Bluebottle]

Welcome
Come out on a ride and see them altogether, maybe even try a few.

[kishan]

welcome

[VOZZA]

Hi Pete and welcome. I'm sure you'll find something to suit your needs, test ride, test ride and test ride, the only way to be sure it suits.

[poldark]

We seem to be trending from larger (SWing/B650) to smaller scoots, I'm guessing as better smaller ones are released and riders age and look for lighter rides.

In the past simple advice was sporty folk get a TMax and tourers and 2-up users choose between the Honda and Suzuki. But for many the B400 was plenty bike and good value, now the options have increased and along with Forza & J300 you have the Kymco Downtown 300 (basis for Kwaka), Sym 400 & Beverly or X10 350.

As said only thing is to ride a few and decide what are your "must haves", for some that'd be feet forward comfort for others top speed cruising. If you'll only be solo then plenty to choose between, if 2-up for distances then much smaller choice.

Enjoy whatever you decide, most will be as capable as the RT and far cheaper, albeit with less bhp and potential for adrenaline thrills.

[Dave Weller]

Very well summed up Poldark, you may get a good deal on a BMW scooter, if not probably a Tmax would suit your needs. I was one of the few scooters at British Superbikes today, and wonder why, seeing bikers walk away from their bikes having to carry bags and crash helmets.

[johnp]

Hi and welcome aboard.

[Ceolmar]

Hi again, been loking around at scoots. A dealer near to me has a 2015 J300 with 1400 miles on it for £3500. It's a mint bike and the price seems okay. I seriously considering it but before I pull the trigger, can anyone give me guidance/experience on J300 reliability and servicing? Many thanks in advance