Speed fight 2

Gearing up won't gain you much on a 70cc kit, if anything at all, as there simply isn't enough power available to pull higher gearing. If you are looking for a lot more speed, then get a bigger bike (e.g a 125) that will be more reliable than a highly tuned and stressed scooter.

 

I'm only 16, I can't get a 125. So shall I buy a variator? I read up and seems to add about 10-15 mph, is this true!?

 

No, not really, since the variator can only be a fixed size for the maximum gear ratio and still fit within the crankcase. 10 to 15 MPH is hopelessly optimistic, since a lot of 125s can only top out at about 70 MPH.

What can make a difference is the slope of the variator and the roller weights. Lighter rollers give better acceleration with maybe a small trade-off at the top end, whereas heavier rollers can add a little bit to the top end speed but the acceleration suffers.

A Polini or Malossi variator with lighter rollers than standard should give you better acceleration and let's face it, the maximum speed you can go on UK roads at 16 is 35MPH.

Gearing up will seriously impair the acceleration of your bike and I wouldn't recommend it.

One thing I will make you aware of is this; now that you have modified your bike, have you notified your insurance company? If a bike is capable of more than 35MPH it ceases to be a moped and becomes a scooter/motorcycle and you may have invalidated both your insurance and driving licence by derestricting your bike. I know that a lot of teens do this, but they don't realise the possible consequences of derestricting their bikes.

Also, under Construction & Use Regulations, a bike capable of more than 35MPH must have a number plate light and three stage front lights (sidelights, dip and main beam). Mopeds are only required to have dip and main beam and it's one area where the Police can spot you.