Bashan BS48Q-2 Moped
by Jim Zeiser
(Deposit, NY, US)
Two new additions to the Fleet
OK, confused by all the numbers? I came across this moped in an online sellers ad and my wife thought this would be perfect for our sons to tool around town. Essentially it is a clone of sorts of the Honda Cub.
It has an automatic clutch, electric and kick start, chain drive, 17" wheels and -- get this -- a four speed foot shift transmission. We bought two. At the bargain price of $490 plus $200 shipping and liftgate we figured we couldn't go wrong.
They came with some assembly required, but started up immediately and worked just fine when I was done. I've had experience with a Bashan machine (my scooter was built by them) and these retained the quality and attention to detail I expected. Not only that but they ride better than my scooter, much to my chagrin and handle more like a motorcycle which is a kick going around turns.
Not having an automatic transmission means you have to upshift and downshift on inclines, but without a clutch your foot does all the work. Just roll off the throttle and shift.
All in all a worthwhile purchase and a vehicle experiment for the coming years. The engine looks like a Honda copy, hopefully they will last like one.
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