Modern Buddy

Just picked up a 2024 Buddy 50. It’s been de-restricted but, I still try to keep it under 35. Running non ethanol premium, and using Lucas semi syn for oil.
The scooter is a lot of fun and much more maneuverable than my Piaggio Liberty 150. biggest complaint is the front suspension really hates bumps, railroad tracks, even slightly below level manhole covers.

Yup. Two-wheelers are a lot like dogs. There are lots of design parameters that affect handling and other behavior, giving them very different personalities.

The reasons for the things you’re liking are the same as the reasons for the things you don’t like: light frame and small diameter wheels.

Over time you may also appreciate the fact that there are no oil changes or valve adjustments to make on the 2T Buddy.

Being the last of the 2 Strokes, hopefully it sticks around for a while before regulations get them banned.
Perhaps the NCY forks would help the ride.

Welcome! The Liberty 150 is a great scooter. I replaced my Liberty 150 with a Buddy 125 though. VERY simple compared to the Liberty. I also owned a Buddy 50 for awhile and still kinda miss it. I wanted the NCY performance forks for my Buddy 125 but they (NCY) seem to only make them for the 50cc Buddy's now. I have no personal experience with the NCY forks but I was willing to give them a try, if just for the looks.

The Buddy 50 forks are essentially the same as a '99 Zuma. They have 26mm fork tubes and use the same seals. Very easy to rebuild.

The stock fork oil is really soft. I recommend using Yamaha 10WT fork oil, of if you want it a bit firmer, use Showa SS-8 oil from your local Honda dealer. The seals are not listed in Genuine parts books; the dimensions are 26x37x10.5mm. Pyramid Parts sells a kit, part #023-FOS. You can get new fork gaiters through Scooter Lounge or your local dealer.

Since it's new, maybe you can just pump out the old fork oil and add the new stuff.