Questions About Elite 50 & Tips for Buying

[Mr.Honda]

So, I'm considering buying an Elite 50. I'm familiar with Honda's and I like that I won't have to register and insure it.

I have a few questions though that I couldn't gleam from the Wikipedia page or the many classifieds I've perused.

While checking Kelly blue book I noticed that some years have two types of Elite's, I guess I'll tell them apart based on how fast they go? (Sans a title) Also, where is the VIN on most Elite 50's? Do any states in the Midwest require 50cc mopeds to be registered? (In which case I'd need a title)

I noticed the Elite 80 has 5 number odometer (99999 max). I'm seeing a lot of elite 80's with 3000 miles on Craig's list. Yeah right. Are these legitimately that low? I don't know if anybody will let me do a compression test but I'd certainly ask. I understand though that some scooters have auto compression and may throw off readings(including other factors). Besides doing a compression test, can anyone recommend a good benchmark test I could do riding it to confirm it has high compression? (Like 140/150) I imagine if it's an unrestricted version and that if the engines clean should get up to 35-40 MPH? Is that correct? I'm looking at one locally with the title. Title should specifically say classification Moped, correct? Otherwise, I'll have to register/license it.

Mopeds have changed quite a bit since the 80's. I really like how the Metropolitan has Under-seat Storage. Which year of Elite 50 have the best storage? I don't mind adding a basket if I can get a deal, but if I can find one I want for sale all the better.

Thanks everyone, I know that's lot of questions and I researched all the ones I could. The Wikipedia page for the Honda Elite 50 leaves a lot to be desired.

[deuce217]

I would if the elite 80 accelerates well and can pull you 40mph up a decent hill, the compression is probably fine. You can bring a compression tester with you if you are concerned. If a scooter says 3000 miles on the odometer I would pretty much assume the mileage is accurate, unless it came from a scooter hoarder like most of us that could have potentially put a different one on there for whatever reason.

Storage is decent on the 92-01 elites they have underseat storage and a small glovebox. The will also fit a basket from early aero's, gyros, elites.

I would search for a 92-01 elite SR50 and you will be happy. Pay around 400 for a running one in ok shape, for a mint low mile SR50 I have happily paid 1100.00 2 different times.

[Mr.Honda]

Can anyone tell me the widest the Honda Elite is at it's base? (Not counting Handle bars)

I looked in the service manual but couldn't find it. Can anyone tell me what size spark plugs the late 80's Honda elite used? I see the standards are NGK BPR 6 HSA, can anyone tell me what size socket this uses and what the thread pitch is? (I don't have the spark plug on my person)

Thanks~

[deuce217]

Come on "Mr. Honda" you not living up to your name here...