[quote=“maunaloa”]CPI essentially went from a 50cc m/c to a 250cc m/c, when they could have launched a 150cc. Why?
My guess is that the MSRP of a 150cc moto would be very close to that of a 250cc moto, say NT 95K vs NT109K, and CPI decided that there would be much greater volume for a 250cc moto.
[/quote]
Well, MSRP is of course whatever number they come up with. However, cost could be similar… though 250 MX bikes are usually a bit bigger / beefier than 125s… more cost. Point is, if you can only put a 150 on the market for 95k when you can put one out for 109k, who is going to buy the 150 when they’re in the same license class?
[quote=“maunaloa”]
Personally, I am a big fan of EFI, since I like to ride in the mountains. If you only ride in the city, carburetors are fine, but if you’re routinely going between sea level and 2000 mtrs, EFI is incomparably better, having patiently waited for an SR150 to pant its way through the mountain passes. Hopefully, CPI will get the EFI right on the 2010 model.[/quote]
Me too. My own bike is EFi, but it’s a liter-class multi. It is possible to build a carb which compensates for altitude. Yamaha used them 20 years on bikes for the South American market, for Andean farmers. Sanyang / Kymco could have this technology tomorrow if they wanted it, but I bet they just can’t be bothered. 99% of two-wheelers never leave the city. The ones that live in the mountains re-jet for their elevation.
I just think that an EFi system is not much cheaper for being fitted to a small bike. You still have an ECU, an O2 sensor, a throttle body, injector, high pressure pump etc. to buy. A system for a single-cylinder engine is 90% of the price of one for a four. It becomes a major part of the cost of the small, simple bike, rather than a small part of the cost of a big complex one.
In terms of fuel efficiency and emissions on a small motor it’s a very poor return on investment. Yes it’s possible to run leaner throughout the operating range… but how much extra pollution does a little 125cc 4-stroke scooter make by having a carb vs. injection? Compared to the difference on your neighbors car, nothing remotely significant. Remember that the injection equipment itself is not free to produce in terms of environmental concerns, whereas a carburetor made from aluminum is basically infinitely recyclable.