TaoTao ATM50-A1 50cc Scooter vs TaoTao Thunder 50cc Scooter

[axel]

Hey all, glad I found this cool forum! 

Very much a new to buying a scooter. From initial checking, it seems TaoTao are the "go-to" for under a grand scooters. Was just wondering how they compare and which one would be best for me. My main desire is a scooter that's safe/easy to handle. Also important are ability to handle weight and storage space (this is gonna be my only means of transportation).

Any help or comments would be greatly appreciated... thanks! 

[jloi]

I have a TAO TAO 150. I honestly think , especially, if you have $1000 to spend that you should not hurry into anything and wait for the guys here to advise you.

I've been here for a while now and even tho I'm not building motors and scooters I'm pretty sure the general concensus here is for other than Chinese ; Yamaha, Honda , Genuine Buddy and some others .

[jackrides]

My Taotao VIP has treated me right. About 8000 miles, no major issues. Minor issues were: replaced both tire valves; battery, headlight bulbs (better ones from Parts for Scooters), LED taillight. Fluid changes as described here. Synthetic at 750 miles. Do the PDI described here!! (predelivery inspection- it's your body on it!) Has small trunk, a very good thing. Has carried 3 bags (paper) of groceries, 2 between my feet, 1 distributed in trunk and bungeed on seat to trunk. Advice: Read the 50cc info here! (Skip the modification parts for now). 12" wheels will ride much better than 10"!. Buy a tire pressure gauge, pencil type works fine for me. RIDE ON!

[claydoh]

There really does not seem to be much difference, other than possible seat height the ATM50 seems to be slightly taller.
The thunder seems to have 12' wheels which may offer a somewhat better ride.
In terms of space, they seem to be about the same.

The YIP 50 jackrides has (so do I) will be longer wheelbase and seat, which means possibly more space for strapping things behind you that will not fit in a trunk or under the seat. It also may have more space behind you if you wear a backpack and have a trunk.

Just some things to consider, from someone who uses a scooter as his only motorized transportation.

[roon]

I have ridden and worked on several ATM50's but never owned one. They are fine little scoots. For my money though, I went with the Thunder a couple of months ago. Thunder is also called Blade but they are the same as far as I can tell, just a newer model name. The 12" wheels ride better and it is a bit bigger and just more comfortable for a taller rider. I feel the Thunder is put together a little better than the ATM. The Thunder has dual rear shocks vs. one on the ATM for what its worth.  The ATM's are probably a couple mph faster out of the box from what others have said but I have not noticed. The speed limit for scoots is 30mph where I ride and either do fine. A 150 requires a license plate and insurance here, so I stick to the 50cc bikes for fun.

I think the Thunder was about $50 more expensive but both can be had shipped for less than $800 if you shop around and are willing to do the final assembly. The PDI videos on this site are very helpful and can apply to either machine. Engine upgrades are similar to both models, case length and final drive ratios may be different.

[Danny87]

I ordered new tao tao thunder 50 and it will arrive next week. I will be doing an experiment on the scooter to see how I like it. Check out this video from 2 and half years ago.www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoA61Y_a5AA



Found out that the dude still have it with BBK with no issues so far.

[aeroxbud]

That's a nice looking bike. Quite sporty looking.