Nearest dealer at a distance

[HunterRose]

I am in the market for my 1st scooter. I am strongly considering a Buddy 170. My issue is that my closest Genuine dealer is 3 hours away. What are thoughts on purchasing without a nearby Genuine authorized service dept?

[tortoise]

Relatively short scooter season in your region . . higher potential for fuel injection hibernation issues. Keep it carb simple! Looks like Lance-Sym might be a local option. Include the Lance PCH 125 and Sym RV 200 in your research.

[Throwback7R]

just try and start it once in a while when in the winter months. I just start them if I Happen to be in the garage

[HunterRose]

I thought that the Sym products looked pretty good. Was interested. Stopped by the shop and they had limited selection of Lance (the Cali classic) and another brand (cf moto, the echarm?). No Sym scooters at all. I wasn't sure what kind of service the dealer might offer since they didn't seem to be very helpful when I inquired about their inventory. Thanks for the advice about starting during the winter months.

[HunterRose]

Does anyone have opinions on the quality of CF Moto? Are Lance products made by Sym?

[TVB]

I am in the market for my 1st scooter. I am strongly considering a Buddy 170. My issue is that my closest Genuine dealer is 3 hours away. What are thoughts on purchasing without a nearby Genuine authorized service dept?

The dealer I bought my Buddy from was closed by its parent company not too much later, and although the nearest Genuine dealer is reasonably close it's just plain difficult to get to (no public transportation). For most things (fluid changes, standard maintenance, tire replacements) I've taken it to another good motorsports dealer nearby, with no difficulties. The only time I've needed a Genuine dealer was when there were things requiring Genuine-specific parts, which a shop can only get at wholesale prices if they have an account with them. So I'd say that it's entirely possible that you'd be fine without a nearby dealer, but not without some risk.

[HunterRose]

Thanks TVB, for the info. That is along the lines that I was thinking, that I could have it the Buddy serviced at a different shop. I realize that I would have the disadvantage of not being able to take advantage of the Genuine warranty. But, as evidenced by this forum, the Genuine scooters seem to be quality machines that may pose less risk due to good workmanship.