How do you design & build your own motorcycle or motor scooter?

I want to design something with lots of storage, wind protection, sporty looks with a 250-300cc engine. The Yamaha Versity would be perfect but they don't sell it in the US.

How do you design %26amp; build your own motorcycle or motor scooter?
I think you would be better off buying a bike that is close to what you want and make some modifications to it. Building a motorcycle from scratch is quite expensive and time consuming. You will probably end up with $15 - 20,000 in a small bike that would be worth a couple thousand. This approach makes no sence to me.But if you decide to go for it ...good luck.
Reply:I use pencil and paper. Never got the hang of CAD.





Too bad I'm a lousy artist.


Bodywork by eye takes too much time.
Reply:You could learn fiberglass work and rebody an existing bike - call it the Craig Vetter approach.





If you want to build your own, I wouldn't think of trying this without either a degree in engineering or and metalworking experience or a lot of work in a motorcycle shop, some very good reading on motorcycle design and theory, and studying dozens of existing designs to get a very good feel for how they're put together.
Reply:I would start with a Yamaha close to what you want. Hopefully you have some skill in repairing and tracing problems because you are going to need it. You would need to find some shops that actually build bikes so that you can get some scraps. Then, you will need to perform that search for those hard to find parts (shields) that you want to install on your bike. You may not find exactly what you are looking for, but use your imagination because you may have to fabricate or make minor modifications to get these parts to fit your bike.





As far as sporty looks, it's all about fabrication and a great paint job. Find a paint shop that is opened to your ideals as far as giving you what you want.





It's more work than one would care to put into it. But if it is your dream, don't be afraid to go after it. It certainly will take time, but most of the fun and delight is in building it from the corners of your mind. Even if it takes you 6 months to a year, it would be well worth it, because it will be one of a kind.





Happy Hunting and


Good Luck
Reply:1. Go to engineering school for at least 4 years.


2. Get a job with a motorcycle manufacturer for 3-5 years.


3. Buy a track bike and learn everything you can about proper dynamics and handling.


4. Quit and use everthing you have learned to design and build your own bike.





Otherwise, anything you design will most likely have some serious design flaws
Reply:Getting a custom built scooter insured and registered may be one of your biggest hurdles! Check your regional craigslist %26gt; for sale %26gt; motorcycles for used scooter values. A China "crate" scooter might be an option.


http://scootersus.com/roketamc54.html


http://www.bandit-motorsports.com/scoote...