Motorcycle Repair: A 2-stroke 100cc bike vs. 4-stroke 125cc bike for use on road only., stroke cycle engines, stroke bike

Question
I am ready to purchase a motorcycle (I live in Liao Yang China) and want a dependable motorcycle. I hear so many things about 2-stroke v. 4-stroke and am wondering which is best for me.  I want to be able to run the bike dependably on the open road and enjoy it for a long time.

I am a fairly big guy, 5'10" and 190lbs.  The largest bike available in China is a 250cc but they are really cost prohibitive.

I would love your advice, especially where the periodic maintenance comes in.  One guy says that 2-strokes are more maintenance and another says they are less because they have fewer moving parts.

Thanks so much.

Ian

I am looking at either a 125cc 4-stroke bike based on a Honda designed single cylinder engine or a 100cc 2-stroke based on the Suzuki ATX100 engine.

Answer
Hi Ian,

I prefer two-stroke cycle engines to four stroke cycle engines. I like the power band of the two-strokes.

At your body weight, you'll have to test ride both MC's and decide which provides the best performance.

I think both require equal maintenance to keep them running properly and dependably. Maintenance is part of the MC'ing experience. : )

I hope this helps.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively