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Posted by: hopsterguy
I have a lot more experience on the Carter XTV and the KPX Xterro now. Many hours on both. I absolutely love the KPX suspension properties and the steering is awesome... Just that the power on the XTV is so mind blowing when compared to the KPX that I know the kpx can do better. I may try pulling some parts off of the XTV ad try them on the Xterro and see what the differences are. Maybe Carter XTV parts could be and answer for the 150cc chinese buggys.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Wow Bickel. Glad it wasn't worse for you... but ICU doesn't sound very good. I've done some pretty crazy climbs with my Xterro. How did you get that bugger to roll??? I have yet to feel close to rolling.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Yeah, I hear ya. Things do happen when you least expect it. Glad it wasn't any worse for ya.
I tried to see how easy it would be to switch out the Carter XTV cdi for the KPX unit... not a simple switch. The connectors are not the same. The are similar, 1 bank of 4 wires, and 1 bank of 2 wires... but pin angle and plastic plug are different. It would take some wiring to do it. I'm sure it could be done, but it will be a while before I try. I'd like to see if the XTV unit has a hotter timing setup on it though, as it's only $24 to get one from carter directly.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Oh boy... let us know what that runs dollar wise.
Might need a good review on switching heads too. BR>
The KPX and Yerf heads are exactly the same size then... not like the Dazon head which was taller?
Any other big issues in switching heads?
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Twisters
Where can i get a look at a different CDI box and a hotter coil I was able to find a pipe at eastsidems but that was it. Thanks
East side also has a replacement filter, and should sell you proper jets as well. The 2005 models of some of these carts are coming with a newer CDI. I also mentioned another performance motorcycle CDI on ebay earlier in the thread I believe. Who knows about the coil though.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Mamurray, Check out some of Raptoraz's earlier posts. One of his has a yerf head on it. He tried a dazon head but it was physically too long for the bolts keeping the head on.
From the sounds of it, it was a direct swap... but I'm curious too if there were any kinks along the way or not.
Does Yerf sell the head directly or do you have to go through a dealer???
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Kell, if you are able to, let us know the manufacturer (if printed) and any serial numbers on your Carburator. I'm curious if there is a difference there in brands or not. Next time I get a chance I'll take some close up digital pics of various engine parts to see if I can compare a few things.
The XTV by Carter has what appears to be a pretty high quality Keihin carb. Manual choke though... but I like it that way.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Kell,
Not sure if you saw this info before, but apparantly there is going to be a large mid year change in the Twister line which is going to involve some engine modifications starting some time in late December. Larger valves and an oil cooler are said to be added according to one of the Reps in China. Supposidly this will make the twister carts more powerful than others on the market at that time. We'll see, I guess. Kind of strange that they didn't have the engine mods ready for a 2005 model year release, but better late than never, I suppose. Rep said the price would remain the same. Said he saw one doing 45mph on flat ground.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
No, I haven't heard about any changes beyond what I have already seen. Not sure why they would want to do much more to this engine, why not just make it bigger? I don't see an oil cooler adding much, I haven't had any overheating problems. One of the things I like about it is the simplicity. Adding a bigger carb sounds like it would take some low end torque away from it, which is where your hillclimbing needs it most. As far as 45mph on flat ground, mine may reach this before hitting flat ground, after falling off a cliff.
My guess is that with the larger valves they saw the engine temps rising. But heck, if nothing else... a cooler engine lasts longer. Oh yeah, they are going to have new pipes standard as well. I think they mentioned aluminum pipe as well. Pretty good if the cost is going to remain the same.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Yet they are pumping more fuel through the system which gives more heat... so who knows where the balance is on the equation.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Cool. Will be great to hear your review... I have a quote in with a place on the net I found that supplies parts for yerf to see what the cost would be.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: bedo
hey guys,
been keeping up with your threads, got a question, what do you think of the "blade" karts,
bladepowersports.com do you think they might be pretty good. they say the do 45-50 mph, but, i dont know about that. give me you feedback.
thanks
bedo
Too early to tell since they are still a pre order item. But, they do look nice and beefy. That ram air scoup is interesting... I wonder how effective it is at keeping from becoming Ram-Mud???
Typically these things overstate max Mph a bit.. Guess we'll see in this case sooner or later.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: bedo
hey guys,
been keeping up with your threads, got a question, what do you think of the "blade" karts,
bladepowersports.com do you think they might be pretty good. they say the do 45-50 mph, but, i dont know about that. give me you feedback.
thanks
bedo
For the heck of it I asked for a delivered price quote. Pretty reasonable considering all the options. $2350 delivered for the single and $2650 delivered for the double to the northeast... has speedometer, removable roof... the better style of lights, that ram air thingy (who knows if it works) , among other things. If they are as strong as a Dazon I would say it's worth it. One of the things that irks me about the Dazon is that they are totally stripped and don't even come with fenders. This supplier seams to fix all that.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: bedo
well, i found this on the internet tonight. i think you guys would agree that these should have enought power.
www.hotbuggy.co.uk
um, i think the ram air on the blades might be a snorkle type breather.
Wow, that's really cool. Thanks for the link.
Yeah, I figured the "ram air" was just a remote breather... but jeez, that's kinda cheesy to call it ram air.
Still, the buggys look good.
-S
Posted by: hopsterguy
Okay, got the performance kit from Toy Junkies. Included both a new pilot and main jet. Everything was installed last night. Definately a moderate peformance increase and a nice exhaust note. Getting some deceleration popping, Raptoraz, are you getting this at all? Small backfiring on deceleration at times. From what I've read that means it may be lean on the top end. New main jet is a 120.
Didn't shim the main needle yet... What exactly does this achieve?? I assume it might richen the mid to top end a bit more too?
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Mainly when coming down from wot on a free wheeling run at speed. Caught a few mid range pops too though while tooling around in the dirt.
If I milk it down from WOT it doesn't happen... but if I let it free wheel after the run it does.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Haven't had a chance yet... Have to get a new plug to do it from what I've heard. Proabably won't get a chance until Saturday, so maybe I'll know more after that.
It's not too serious... but it's definately there. I made sure I checked all fittings really well after install, so I know everything is tight. I'm really close to sea level here (an ocean front town) Might very well need to be a tad richer. But, from what i've heard, 120 is about right or even a little rich for some people.
So, if it turns out what I have is mid-range popping, and not truely WOT popping... what am I looking to change? Shim the main needle a bit at that point?
-S
Posted by: hopsterguy
Thanks Raptoraz... I'll get on that as soon as I get a chance.
I'll try to remember to look at the carb on the XTV tonight. All I can tell you for sure it is that it's a darn strong motor. The exterior of the head looks identical to the Xterro... same placement of all moldings, screws, vent tubes, etc. I'd love to get a look at the XTV valves... bet they are a whole lot bigger.
Also still want to patch the XTV cdi to the Xterro and see what I get there. Wish those connectors were the same. I'll figure something out. If it has better peformance it would be worth the trouble at only $25 direct.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
120 sounds pretty lean for near sea level. I would call and make sure they adjusted for your elevation. When I ordered mine, they where running 112 at their elev. but when he adjusted for my elev. he came up with 145 main.
I am running 140 main at apprx. 400' with good results, it will occasionally pop on decel when it gets really hot but I think this is mainly due to the fact that I haven't gotten around to raising the needle yet.
I am running the eastside pipe with unifilter and they sent me a 145. I believe my pipe is much longer and larger in diameter, but I think it also has a larger internal diameter so I don't know how it will compare to yours. I am very satisfied with mine and would purchase another, although I would prefer a k&n.
Anyway, I am sure yours is too lean, assuming you have put the k&n with no airbox on. I have never heard of putting both jets in, even on bikes. I think eliminating the stock air system makes a bigger change in the jetting than even the pipe.
FYI: I make no claims at being an expert at jetting!
I'll have to run a plug test at WOT and see how it looks an go from there. The jets are cheap enough, so I will probably order a few and see what I come up with if needed.
BTW,when taking the air box off I noticed mine was totally sealed with a black sealant. Box worked very well, and no dust made it through. They must be doing this at the factory now. At least, that's the way it was on my KPX.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV
I'm going nuts looking searching/surfing all the buggy options. Each time I make up my mind which to start seriously pricing, I read something that changes my mind. Anyway, I recently started leaning toward the KPX. I found this post via a search. I saw the pictures of yours. A few questions, if you don't mind:
1. You've obviously contributed many posts to this board, so I'm assuming you've done your homework prior to the double purchase of the KPX. Can you please tell me what swayed you to this machine? I had originally decided on the Twister, but have seen countless reliability issues.
2. I keep seeing that many of these buggys are basically the same thing, just minor changes depending on the make. So why do some say 35mph and some 40? I keep seeing that the motors are similar to Honda. Who really makes these 150cc motors?
3. You mentioned you bought your karts from Toy Junkies for 1,999. I have not found this price or the Toy Junkie site. From what I've seen, this is the lowest price on this type of unit anywhere.
4. How long did it take for you to get your karts once paid for?
5. Please tell me about the performance kit you also ordered. How much does it really help performance, low end and top end? And, how does it effect the noise level?
6. I keep reading about receiving the Karts crated, where assembly is required. I'm very handy, but I even read to "have a professional assemble ... comes with no instructions." Is this a big deal?
7. I thought the KPX colors were red and blue, but it looked like your wife's was black???
Thank you in advance!
Joe
Right now I think I would consider the new 2005 KPX style... www.awesomebuggys.com is selling them on ebay. They have engine updates for more power and more options on them. They are a bit more, but still look like a good value. I paid $2000 delivered for my 2004 double from KPXMOTORS... if you could get the updated one around $2300 or less, I think you would be doing pretty good.
I would also strongly consider the Blade at www.bladepowersports.com They seem to be selling a dazon-type cart at a good price. Lots of options, including bar pads, and speedometer without adding a lot of $$. I was quoted 2650 recently on a double to the NorthEast. No reports yet, but if it's a true dazon clone, it will be more powerful than many of the other carts right out of the box.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV
Wow, the blade states 45-50mph! Why is that, is it a different engine or is it because it's so light 386lbs? I'm really confused now! I'll look at the 2005 KPX. That kart really seems to be the best value. I don't think anyone is close to 2,000 - 2,200. But if the Blade is that much of an upgrade, it might really be worth the extra $$.
My wife is against this because of the cost. My oldest wants an IPOD and new cell phone as it is. I noticed via my surfing that someone was offering 90days same as cash financing. But I don't remember where that was ... does anyone know? That may take the edge off of my expensive gift idea and make the wife happy as well.
Thanks!
Joe
Yeah, we believe the Blade may have the larger valved head that the Dazon has which would be making it stronger. speed is usually overstated on these... but 40-45 may not be out of the question. With the price difference only being about $350 between a 2005 Kpx-Style (sold by awesome buggies) and the blade at blade powesports... I'd probably lean towards the blade, but that's just me. Looks like nice bar padding, the buit in speedometer is cool, chrome wheels, etc.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Ahh, okay. I had heard that there was sealent missing at the neck there in some carts. Yeah, pretty cheesy filter. But for me, it seemed to be working well in moderately dusty conditions.
Yeah, that metal grid was strange... like, what's the point? If anything you would think it would come before the foam to catch twigs, leaves, etc before the debris could get to the foam. But after the foam, what's the point?
Oh, I just had a thought, maybe the foam filter was known to fall apart and clog the carb, so they put the metal there to block chunks of foam!!! hehe..
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
Quote
Originally posted by: hopsterguy
The XTV by Carter has what appears to be a pretty high quality Keihin carb. Manual choke though... but I like it that way.
I've heard that the XTV's actually use a smaller carb than the other karts(which is a 24mm). Have you found any markings that indicate what size the XTV's carb is?
Okay, from what I can tell it's an ATV type of carb. Throttle linkage plugs directly into the top of the carb through a stalk pointing vertically towards the sky. I put pictures on my profile there... sorry, one of them is a bit blurry, and please excuse all the dirt. Been working ever since the last ride.
Like I mentioned before, it appears to be a nice Keihin carb. Series is PTG and on the flange to the intake manifold it reads 028[A]RFW.
Sounds like it might be 28 mm??? Would make sense, as this cart has good output.
So far I can only find a few foreign references to it, and the translations are rough. I did find it mounted to a 250cc ATV somewhere.
-Steve
Edit: Ahhh bummer. My picture page is "pending approval" so whenever the mods get around to it, they should be there.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
Quote
Originally posted by: hopsterguy
The exterior of the head looks identical to the Xterro...
Does the pipe stick straight out(a perfect 90 degree angle) from the head. Like the KPX. Or does it bolt to the head at a slightly different angle? Angling the pipe towards the rear of the kart.
Ahhh... darn... Let me get back to you on that one.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Okay, the angles look to be the same to me. Added more pics to the page that has yet to be approved.
The crank case on the XTV has some added mounting points on the bottom that will be really obvious in the pics. The head looks the same judging by external reference points. The plastic case surrounding the head on the XTV is identical to the Xterro.
No way to know the really important stuff though without removing the head of the XTV.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
For all those interested, I've been watching some Ebay auctions for a while now. And here's what I've seen some auctions close for:
1 seater Pirate 150(appears to be a KPX clone) = $1600-$1700
2 seater Explorer 150(also appears to be a KPX clone) = $1900-$2100
1 seater Blade 150(appears to be Dazon clone) = $2000-$2100
2 seat Blade 150(again appears to be a Dazon clone) = $2200-$2400
After comparing the specs between the Explorer's versus the Blade's, I think the Blade's area better value. For the extra $200-300 more, you get better seats, nicer wheels, bigger front tires, a speedometer, a hitch, and better lights.
Just some FYI for those looking to buy a buggy.hr>
Yep... same conclusion I made. Too bad they weren't available until now. Also, the bar padding, the removable roof, and the chrome wheels. They are a really good value apparantly.
Posted by: hopsterguy
>Cough< >Cough<
Slight hint, eh? Yeah, I wanna know too. Pretty certain that 028 means 28mm from what I've seen on the net. Maybe Keihin would respond to an e-mail for specs.
Would also be good to get in touch with a distributor of the new 2005 kpx models and find out exactly what the specs are on that new carb being used there. They do state that it is bigger. Heck, for all we know, the KPX type might be coming with larger valves now as well, but it's not mentioned.
Posted by: hopsterguy
I'll try to reach one of the other sellers of KPX style carts that have the 2005 already and see what they say.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV
I'm ordering a Blade, 2 seater. I've been reading until I'm blue in the face about these rides. I've been chatting with Stu about his Blade over the phone. He is a really cool guy and is very excited about his product. He told me that it was almost the same as the Dazon, but has a different motor. I think it's a fantastic looking machine, plus they are opening a dealer/service center in Baytown, just 40 miles from me. The weight is very light at 386 for the 2 seater. That may have a little to with the claimed high top speed. It does have the 2 chains like the Dazon, which seems to be getting mixed reviews. It seems assembly is easier with these. Stu even provides a video with instructions!
As for the company and Stu, he is looking for interested parties for dealership opportunities. This guy is very passionate about what he is doing. You guys should get in touch with him, you'd enjoy the insight.
I think I've made an educated decision. Mostly thanks to you guys on this board. I am sealing the deal today. I'll have it built and running before xmas and will certainly provide my review and photos. I'm getting the red, by the way.
I pumped about it, my daughters are going to be out of their shoes!
Thanks again for all of the information!
Joe
Interesting. So the engine is different. Very interested in your reports on this cart. It looks good.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
When you say warranty, are you talking about aftermarket warranty offered at a dealer, or are you worried that if you buy direct there will be no warranty?
Most sellers offer a basic warranty on parts only. So, if you are handy, it's not such a big deal. Send the defective part in, get a new part back. If you don't have any basic mechanical skills this could be an issue. Those not comfortable with wrenches may want to go through a local dealer so they have their support in case issues arrise.
These carts are pretty well sorted out now, but some are getting them with a few issues going on.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Whelp. I grabbed a neighbor and had him run the XTV wide open and I went side by side him with the Xterro and there was no contest. The XTV had a MUCH higher top end speed. Had to be doing at least 40 while I was stuck in the low 30's somewhere. I want to get a tach so I can see where the Xterro tops out. So the speed difference was confirmed for sure. Not only this, the XTV has tons more low end grunt. Rips the heck out of the ground.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
It sure would be a benefit for all us non-XTV owners to find out if the XTV truly has a larger carburator.Any XTV owners out there wanna measure the inlet and outlet diameters of their carb's?hr>
Carter pulled through where others have not. An email to the manufacturer got the question answered... you can even see some internal communication to get the answer to me.
So, that clears it up. The XTV does have a larger 28mm carburetor.
Also, I e-mailed the distributor of the Blade carts and asked him if he knew
the size of the carb coming on the 2005 blades. He admitted he didn't yet know
but sounded interested in getting back to me when he finds out. This guy sounds
helpful. He also stated that he will be having carburetors and other parts
available as spare parts after 12/15.
-Steve
Reply from Carter follows:
THANK YOU FOR THE INQUIRY.
YOU ARE CORRECT ABOUT THE CARB IN SIZE AND MODEL. AND YOU CAN BOTH FIND
MOST OF THE JETS AT YOUR LOCAL HONDA DEALER. THE MAIN JET IS CALLED A BUTTON
STYLE MAIN JET AND WAS USED ON THE XR100'S THRU XR200'S IF WE CAN DO
ANYTHING TO ASSIST YOU PLEASE WRITE US BACK. THANKS
-----Original Message-----
From: Roger Waldrop
Sent: Monday, December 06, 2004 6:45 AM
To: Chuck Hanson
Subject: FW: Internet Feedback
chuck,
can you help with this one?
Thanks,
Roger
Customer Service
1-800-523-5278
-----Original Message-----
From: Steve Hopkins [mailto:stevehopkins@cox.net]
Sent: Saturday, December 04, 2004 11:57 AM
To: Customer Service
Subject: Internet Feedback
I have a carter 1150 XTV. I wanted to know what the size of the keihin
carburetor is. It is Keihin series PTG and has a serial number on it that
says 028[A]RFW. Does the 028 refer to it being a 28mm carburetor?
---End Reply
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
Wouldn't the single seat carter weigh less than the kpx? This would seem to make at least some difference in performance. Putting an adult or even my kid beside me in the cart can make it feel slower. Also, the carter should be geared different because of the smaller tires, Ive seen the single seat carts with the 18's in the back have much smaller sprockets. What kind of intake does a yerf dog have? the rubber one like mine or the metal one like the carter? I think the yerf has the same type carb as the kpx style but am not sure.
Weight: Virtually the same. The carter is built VERY beefy for a single seater and it is HUGE. I should take a pic of both of them side by side for comparison. Majority of buggys built by TJ on the net claim around 400-440 lbs for the double seater dry. The single seater XTV is 400.
Gearing. Well, unless the engine is running significantly faster by thousands of rpm, the gearing must be higher on the XTV and in a greater amount than just to make up for the 18 inch tire. The XTV must be using it's increased torque to make up for the low end. Rememer, the XTV has a much faster top speed on flat ground.. I was pegged out at top speed in the Xterro, and my neighbor who was even with me for a while just poured on the gas and took off like I was standing still. Carter does advertise a 40 mph top speed. I believe it is at least 40. So, the carter XTV while being faster off the line, and having much more torque on the lower end is ALSO faster at top speed. It has better engine and powertrain performance all around.
The XTV has a much wider rear tire and a much larger contact patch with the ground, yet still spins tire on dirt much faster than the Xterro does off the line.
In short, I love the XTV for the speed and engine performance but I really like the Xterro for it's handling and smoothness over rough terrain. The XTV is a great trail burner while the Xterro handles the bumps and turns with ease. What would be awesome would be putting an XTV engine into an Xterro and getting the best of both worlds.
I have to wonder how much we are loosing in the reverse box as well, which the XTV doesn't have.
If I went with larger tires on the rear of the XTV I still believe I would have good low end and it would be even faster on top. But the speed really isn't needed in that cart for my tastes. Wish the bolt pattern was the same between the two, I'd just swap them to try.
My neighbor is a Auto Mechanic for a high end luxury car dealer in the area. He's played with power toys his entire life and works on Lexus vehicles for a living. He rides motorcross in his free time. Right off the bat he saw the large performance difference and mentioned himself how well the XTV "rips" as he put it. He himself mentioned how easily he was able to surpass me when I was already at top speed. But in the end he was really impressed with both carts for different reasons as am I.
I'm dying to see the inside of the carter head to see the internal differences and see if they mate up with the Xterro or not.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Yeah, the KPX Xterro is a much better driving machine. It soaks up the bumps, and corners very well. It is more agile, and has longer suspension travel. When you become used to driving the XTV you can go the same places the Xterro does, but you have to use the throttle to kick the back tires out to make the turn.
The XTV gives a bone jarring ride on really rough terrain... even with little pre load dialed in. But man, that engine rips really well and if the trails have only moderate bumps spaced apart it's awesome fun to run with. Amazing that the displacement and compression ratio are the same. Not as fun in the bumpies, with tight quarters. I've had to get out a few times to push backwards, but I'm able to make adjustments in driving so that it doesn't happen again the next time I hit the same corner.
I should try to get some video soon. Be ready for some noise though... the exhaust on my XTV is nearly straight through.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Took some quick pics and added them to the pic page. They are dark due to stormy weather starting here. But, you can compare the XTV to the Xterro side by side.
Basically, they are about the same width at the rear wheels with the XTV squeeking past the xterro just a bit. The front wheels are closer together on the XTV. The overall length of the XTV is probably 6 inches more than the xterro, and the XTV is taller as well. Center section where the rear swing arm meets the cockpit on the XTV is greatly pivoted upwards which makes it easier to clear some types of sharp tall hills and bumps that the Xterro might bottom out on after the front wheels clear.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
hopsterguy, thank's for all the info and the comparison of the two karts.
I called Carter as well today. The XTV's carburator is $90 and the intake is $15. Sounds like this is gonna be the next mod for my KPX's.BR>
Could I get you two measure the bolt spacing(on the intake manifolds) between your karts? Maybe even do a clearance visual between the two as well.
Sure, just have to give me some time. I want to look at how that throttle cable is mounted on the ATV style carb on the XTV as well. Never seen the inside of one of these types of connections. Maybe you have.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
Quote
Originally posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
hopsterguy, thank's for all the info and the comparison of the two karts.
I called Carter as well today. The XTV's carburator is $90 and the intake is $15. Sounds like this is gonna be the next mod for my KPX's.BR>
Could I get you two measure the bolt spacing(on the intake manifolds) between your karts? Maybe even do a clearance visual between the two as well.
Sure, just have to give me some time. I want to look at how that throttle cable is mounted on the ATV style carb on the XTV as well. Never seen the inside of one of these types of connections. Maybe you have.
No problem. Typically the throttle cable cable is connected directly to the slide on that style of carb. So as you pull on the cable, the slide goes up. When you pull off the top cap, the slide will come out with the cable end. Be careful, sometimes they "pop" out with some pieces coming off.
Ack!... okay, I'll take it easy with it. I do all the work in a clean garage anyhow, so parts will be easy to find.
Okay, swapped manifold tubes. They are interchangable! Didn't think I would get to it tonight, but I did. (don't tell the little lady) Even the thread size is the same on the manifold mounting studs on the engine. (nuts were interchangable) Stud lengths were the same, so no issue there.
The only thing that slightly worried me was the fact that the metal XTV manifold tube puts the carb about an inch further back. Thought about the possibilty that it would make the carb push into the upper swing arm brace. I'll take some more measurements... and likely remove the carb entirely from the XTV to test fitment on the Xterro... might not be until tomorrow night though.
Keep in mind Carter Brothers sells the performance air filter right on their site for this carb. (haven't checked to see if ours fits yet)
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Okay, a kink. Carburetor fits on the Xterro, but points right at the upper cross brace on the swing arm with only about 3/4 to 1 inch space between the carb and the brace. I uploaded a pic. If the intake manifold tube was first taller from the engine, and then pointed downward more, it would work, but the angle is all wrong. No way to mount an air filter without cutting or removing structures. I'm sure there are other manifolds out there that would work better, but finding them might be a pain.
May be best to wait a few weeks to get info on the bigger 2005 carbs. BladePowersports said he would have his replacement parts available after 12/15 or so and did say he would get back to me when he can find out more about the carb.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
The bigger the diameter of the carburetor venturi, the better it should be able to handle a higher rate of airflow and fuel vaporization. Raptoraz has gone a long way to freeing up the internal breathing of his engines, and now likely would benefit from feeding it more energy to help increase power.
Part of the performance increasing parts put on these engines this year appears to be a larger carb... also an updated CDI unit, and some ignition parts (still not totally sure which other parts... if they mean a hotter coil, or what yet) My Carter XTV 150cc engine is very similar to the engine found on my 2004 KPX Xterro, but the performance increase on the XTV is outstanding. It too has a 28mm carb instead of the 24 that is found on others until recently.
If Stu's engines are performing like they say they are, then it sounds more like the output I'm getting from the XTV. On that engine I have both inreased low end, mid range, and top speed. I'm assuming he probably has a larger carb on this cart line as well... and hoping so, because he sounds like a good guy to go through to get some parts that we may want for these things. Either that or I just sell my KPX and get a blade Look forward to hearing your comments on it... and if you have a good way to measure top end speed, that will be a good thing. Most of the chinese carts are topping off at 31-35 mph.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Okay, heard back from awesome buggys. The new style kpx-type carts apparantly have the same carb (or at least venturi diameter) of 24mm. Only the standard jetting has changed there. (not sure what he new standard is yet) So there goes that.
Confirmed that the CDI is definately updated and I asked more questions about what they mean by ignition switch. Wondering if the coil was updated or something.
Just waiting to hear back from Stu from Blade at some point in the next few weeks.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Kell, nice new pics. I need to get shots when the sun is out, myself.
To those that use Foam air breathers, What kind of oil can be used on the foam for best results? Do you have to use foam air filter oil, or can something else be substituted with equal results??? I don't think anyone local to me sells this stuff, so I'm curious on what else can be used.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
Somebody is gonna have to get some action shots on here at some point. The last time we went riding I guess we were having too much fun cause we didn't take any.
I think the oil made for it works best. It is real sticky and a quart will last forever. However, in a pinch just about any oil will do, on 2-strokes I ran the same oil as in my pre-mix, and sometimes even motor oil.
Did you notice the extra large rear fenders on the blade? Those would come in real handy.
It is possible to send your carb out and get it machined, or you can pick up a 28mm motorcycle carb (I think stock blasters are also this size) for cheap and probably squeeze it in the rubber intake. If you don't really want to mess with the stock cables etc., milling it out is an option.
Yeah, true. It was just nice to know that I had a carb that was working so nicely on a nearly identical GY-6 powerplant. Others would be trial and error... and it is possible to get too much carburetion too... bleh. I'll just keep asking around and see if 24mm is still the norm. Who knows, maybe one of the carts out there has a larger carb bore.
We'll see what an updated ignition gets us soon, hopefully.
I was thinking of taking some on-board video in the near future... maybe get some shots too.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Well, the carburetor on my KPX does have the Keihin symbol on it. So it appears to be a keihin as well. There has to be a larger version of this carb out there somewhere.
Finally got around to shimming the main needle today and I definately have improved mid and high range. The increased power is very noticeable when climbing a hill.
Also added lights down low on the XTV to give better night driving ability. Just picked up some $20 driving lights from WalMart and used conduit hangers for mounts on the tube frame. Worked out really well. Definately a good deal brighter now.
Posted by: hopsterguy
All it would do is drop it 1/4 inch which would not be nearly enough. It was dead center pointing at the cross bar. We need a different angle to either drop it way low (sharper angle), or raise higher (less angle).
There has to be an manifold tube out there that would fit...
Posted by: hopsterguy
Do you recall which models they were? A good distributor might be able to help us with dimensions. Or heck, I'd go to the nearest dealer and see if I thought it would work.
Posted by: hopsterguy
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=4509314076&category=46092&sspagename=WDVW
check that auction out. Now if we could just find one that comes w/ 12.5 hp output like some of them, swap them out... sell the 10hp model that came with the cart. All set. Instant 25% power upgrade... and no engine teardown.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Stu from Blade e-mailed me back confirming his new carbs are 24mm as well. I'm sure that's the norm. He also stated that he asked the techs to look into 28mm to see if it improved anything for them. He said that could take a while, but at least it puts the idea in their heads. Pretty cool to have a responsive guy that has contact with the techs developing these things.
I sent him another question asking if he knows what the standard jet size is now.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Awesome Buggys responded that the jet size went up only 0.002 inches... that sounds like it went from 108 to 110. Big deal. Not sure if this is correct or not. What I was expecting was a statement of which jet was used... not how much bigger it was. Oh well.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV
That's what I wanted to hear! Your pipe seems to be what I'm looking for. You stated "Eastside," but I don't know who that is ... can you provide an email address or website? Also, what kind of price range are we talking about? And, more importantly, is this a universal fit for these type of engines? I guess I should ask ... will it likely fit the Blade, or do you believe that modifications will be required?
Thanks!
Joe
That is going to be too hard to tell at this point. All we know is that the Blade carts have a different engine than the DAZON. But we don't know if the exhaust port is angled like the Dazon's is yet or not. If the Exhaust port is about 90 degress to the head, it will likely fit, or could be easily made to fit, but if there is a funky angle there then something else will have to be used. The White Brothers pipe only fits the Dazon (as far as we know at this point) because the dazon exhaust port is angled towards the rear of the cart. Again, this shows the differences that can crop up in these carts. The frames, however, are essentially the same. So we should all be good for suspension parts, etc. BR>
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
hopster,
here is some stuff to look at, may be made to fit?
http://store.yahoo.com/dratv/carbs.html
kell
Thanks Kell!... Cool store!
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Yes, that could work. I didn't check for contact with the storage rack. Not sure how much room is there at full shock deflection. I think it would work okay. Either that or find manifold with proper bolt spacing that twists the carburetor to the side. Would put the air filter in the path of more mud, etc, but I don't think it would be that bad. Put an outer wear on it, and there should be no worries.
Posted by: hopsterguy
That said, moderate mud, shallow water, and moderately sandy conditions are still fine. Trails are best but sand pits are still fun.
Stu's the man... Awesome buggys are still saying 6 to 8 weeks out and the website isn't even finished yet after all this time.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Okay, I figured out my backfire problem I was having finally. Last ditch before messing with newer jet sizes I decided to remove the exhaust and inspect it. I found out that the pipe wasn't sealing properly against the exhaust port. Used a new gasket and re-installed and the sound is much better, the power is tons better, and I no longer have backfire issues!!
BR>
Honestly , I'm pretty happy with the power the way it is now. Hills are much better, and off the line is acceptable now. I definately want to try the new style CDI and see where it is then. Might still try a yerf head after that , or explore the XTV head... but mainly to be able to change gearing for some speed.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Here is something that is scary. Awesome Buggys _still_ has yet to get the site running, but their buggys selling on ebay apparantly have largely changed in appearance. I don't personally like the look of these now. The style in the first auctions (at least the pictures that were shown) looked like a very nice update on a KPX style cart. Now it is something else. Mirrors are in a different place, the console that was on the old pictures is not there... the placement of the headlights is higher and now only two lights instead of 4. I hope those people that bid on the first 3 auctions actually get what they bid on. I wouldn't be a happy camper, myself.
Original ebay listing
New listings
Posted by: hopsterguy
Sure, and a reverse box update too. But they had to make it ugly??? ick. Rear wheels are shorter too... so a little less clearance.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Hmm... Maybe that is the size at max inflation?? I know on the kpx carts we aren't anywhere near max inflation levels, and I can watch it grow as I add more air.
I'll take a measurement tonight.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Well, I'm really going to be watching closely in the next few months. The new engine on the Twister carts should be here any time now, and the blade has me intrigued by it's claims of being quite fast as well. Both are claiming over 40... so we'll see what they have done to get there. I know it's possible, because carter did a good job on power in the XTV.
Posted by: hopsterguy
You are going to have to get a lot more specific. Which cart exactly, and which parts are you looking for??? If it is the Talon 150 you are talking about (since it iis largely the same as the chineese carts this thread is about) there are links mentioned earlier on here. Just read back and you will find them mentioned several times.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Dunno about the suspension performance, but I'm sure the airbrushing was just because this was a demo unit that wasn't yet customized. His first shipment of product didn't come in until the last few days according to what he has been telling people up to now.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV
I took that photo to Photoshop and blew it up. Clearly, it's added. So, I went straight to the source ... SINCE I've bought one and am waiting on it. Stu responded within an hour.
THESE WERE THE ORIGINAL PICTURES BEFORE FINAL PRODUCTION FROM THE FACTORY SO WE ADDED THE LOGO TO SHOW THE FACTORY WHERE TO PLACE AND WHAT IT SHOULD LOOK LIKE, I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHICH PICS ARE WHICH ANY MORE I HAVE SO MANY, SEE ATTACHED PHOTO FOR FINAL WITH THE FACTORY ATTACHED LOGO!!!! RELAX BUDDY ALSO I ATTACHED A PIC OF THE NEW BLACK KART FOR FUTURE ORDERS FROM YOU BECAUSE I KNOW 1 WON'T BE ENOUGH.
STU
Text
This guy seems to be on the up and up. He sells a lot of product on ebay of varying types. The photoshop work is what I expected... If you have a copy of the new black image, post it up!.. I'd love to see it.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV
I'm getting curious about acceleration. I've heard and read that these karts are not quick, and especially from a dead stop. Mud and hills would have to be a problem??? Auto transmission I expect that. I know it depends on the surface and weight in the Kart, but can you guys comment on this subject. The Blade is pretty light in comparison to many others, which must help. How cool would it be for some guys to do a side by side road test of the top 5-6 Karts! Fresh fromt he factory and stock, it would be really neat have a handful of "experts" rate each kart on handling, performance, workmanship ... etc.
I have a zip of some pictures, nice looking black included, if you want them. Email me and I'll attach back to you. I'd post them, but I don't know how. casavarese@aol.com.
Joe
Yeah, we really do need an unbiased review of the major chinese carts. The engines, gearing, and wheel choices can make a difference here.... as well as paint and finish quality, etc.
I'll Private Message you for that zip... thanks.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Hopefully changed for the good, as Dazon doesn't claim to go as fast. But until we have actual speed readings that is going to be hard to know for sure. And if it is indeed faster, hopfully low end didn't have to suffer any for it.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV
I put the photos on my page. I guess I have it figured out. Anyway, if anyone has trouble getting to it or viewing, I'll still email the photos. Man, the black looks good.
No question, I'm a little nervous about the purchase. I'm in early, and that can be good or bad. By the way, it has the double chain like the Dazon, but isn't the Dazon's chain setup opposite sides of the axle? The Blade appears to have a double chain near the middle, almost touching each other.
Stu made it clear to me that the Dazon engine and the Blade engine were different. One of you spoke with him about that, from what I recall???
Joe
Yeah, he does reply that the engine is different. But he doesn't specify in what way it is different, etc. It would take a side by side comparison there for definative answers.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV
I've posted 11 Blade photos on my page. Some are brand new.
Stu responded to me via email and was very concerned that the decal issue be cleared up. I told him it was and that I've posted the new pics at the board. I also gave him the link to the latest posting page, so I expect him to be reading our posts. Constructive criticism is part of the process when these type of products come along. The boards are a fantastic tool to educate us. The decal question was justified. Stu responded immediately, as ususal, and we cleared it up. Coool, we move on to the next post. I sincerely appreciate the emmense and never ending flow of valuable information! I look forward to sharing my experiences with my Blade the second I get it cranked up.
How long does it take for the moderators to approve a pic addition/my page creation??
Joe
Depends on when the volunteers show their face, I guess. Seen it go fast (20 minutes?? before, and longer... several hours, at other times)
Dang... my company blocks zip access (probably a good idea). I'll just wait for the mods to release your page.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Greetings Stu!! You make it through this long thread yet?? Lots of ideas, thoughts and considerations brought up here. Look forward to reading much more about your carts. They look great.
-STeve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Thanks for the e-mail Joe... You are right, the Black is really sharp looking.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Hey Kell... I have 2 carts, and I was thinking of getting a 3rd!! ... It never ends. Thinking of selling my Katana and Ninja as I never ride them anymore. I really like the looks of the Blades.
Joe... I think that's great you want to surprise the kids... If you have a big tent stick it in that in the garage and drive the cart inside... tell them they are going garage camping. They will be shocked when they go inside. I've found that our girls like the carts as much as our boys. They really have a blast. Wish I had something like these around when I was younger!
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Like I said, I'll try to get pictures by days end. BTW, the only main flaw I see is the shock absorbers. If I had my bike shocks on then the thing would never bottom out. Does anyone know of some good stiff quad shocks or something that will fit this thing?
Thanks
Heath
One thing though, my XTV has much stiffer shocks and it's hard on the body (my body). IMHO I much prefer the ride quality of the Xterro...
The 2004 units have the 22 inch rears as well. I know the website says otherwise, but several things are incorrect on there... apparantly they are slow on
updating things.
If torque is increased on the 2005 there must be more differences. Did you ever ride a 2004 for comparison? When we see the pics we'll know more for sure. Be sure to get a good shot of your reverse box. At some point we should get you to read any tags or markings on the coil and CDI unit as well inside the electric box.
Raptoraz- Did KPX ever get back to you on the 2005 update question???
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
Quote
Originally posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Raptoraz- Did KPX ever get back to you on the 2005 update question???
Kind of. They told me that their manufacturer has told them that they now how more power. But they(KPX) doesn't know how that was accomplished.BR>
On a side note. It looks like I'm no longer gonna do the Yerf-Dog head swap on my blue Xterro. I'm gonna do an R6 conversion instead.hr>
Whoaaaah..... Holy C*%p. That is going to be awesome.... please don't hurt yourself on that thing! BR>
Posted by: hopsterguy
Heathcrom-
Here's an idea. I would be incredibly helpful if we can get you to make scans of some of your part number diagrams that include engine and electrical specifics for your 2005 cart. Specifically, Stator, reverse box, CDI unit, Coil unit, Valves, head unit, carburetor etc. Then those of us with 2004 kpx carts can look item by item on our manuals and distinguish finally what was actually changed between the two years and order parts accordingly . I'm highly interested in getting the new cdi... and want to find out if the stator was changed too. But, it keeps nagging me that there may be some internal engine changes too.
Man, if someone at KPX would get their butts in gear they would compare the two manuals and let us know the changes themselves... BR>
On a side note... I'm really impressed with the level of service Stu has thus far offered concerning the blades... he really seems willing to research and help where he can.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Here is something interesting that some of you guys may be interested in...
A new company that states it helps people import small quantities of overseas products:
http://www.greaterinnovation.com/
Looks like they have access to a wide supply of power products... including some of what we have talked about here.
States they operate on a fixed 15% margin.... true or not... may be worth looking at. I think they are just starting up.
Says you can track your product along it's way including on the ship carrying it overseas.
They also help with warranty issues, etc.
Posted by: hopsterguy
http://www.kpii.com.tw/dunebuggy_timberwolf110150.htm Check that out guys. Looks pretty cool.
Offered by that greaterinovation company in USA.
Has an e-bay auction for the 250 model at what looks to be a pretty good price.
Anyone hear of these??
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
Looks to be the Kasea Explorer, kinda like they market the buggies like we have in different flavors.
7.5" of travel would be great, 605lbs would not though. From everything I have seen they have the same 250 engine as the peirspeeds.
I am going to try my hand at porting over Christmas vacation, even if it only gives me a little more power I think it will be worth it. I am going to order head gaskets from Gander mountain unless anyone else has a better place to order them (like somewhere that stocks them).
Ive noticed a bunch more people locally that are selling the chinese quads, I stopped to ask if they stock or plan to stock parts and the answer is no. Most of their quads are the same engine as mine. Saw a twin cylinder 250 that was chrome, kinda bizarre. Anyway, looks like they don't plan to back their products if they don't even plan on stocking any parts.
Look again, the frame is totally different. The Kasea Explorer is 605 lbs... this one is only 480 lbs. Some of the heavier versions of our Chinese 150 two seater carts are the same weight (or about 20lbs less... ) Pretty good weight. Distributor says this is designed by a retired honda engineer that was involved with the original Honda Pilot project years ago. This one might be a good one. Something to keep an eye on I think. There is a 150 version too that is about 440 lbs.
Greaterinnovation says they are planning to stock parts... but that is to be seen, of course, since they are new.
Posted by: hopsterguy
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=4513237111&fromMakeTrack=true
Who says 3 carts are too many!! heh...
Posted by: hopsterguy
I think it looks pretty awesome. Especially the rear end seen in the ebay listing there with the CV joints, etc. Looks like some mean suspension travel.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
Check this out:
250?
looks like they already have a 250 version of our engines, would like to get my hands on this.
I agree it looks pretty cool & the independent would also ride good
Yep... looks to be 254cc. Has some sort of liquid cooling too by the looks of it. Cool (no punn intended)
looks like it has good output... Nearly 17hp
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
I am curious what everyone elses engine says on it.
mine says
157FM laser etched above the serial number, I know the 57 stands for the bore (or was it stroke)
I can't find this exact engine on the linhai website, would like to compare it to the yerf dog designation or carter XTV and KPX
Where are you finding the serial numbers? (so later I can find them quickly)
I'll try to look them up when I get home tonight
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
Sorry, my serial number is underneath on the cvt side of the engine case.
Anyone know how these do in the snow, we just got some this morning. I am afraid my tire tread is too shallow but I will find out tomorrow!
No prob... It all totally blew my mind anyway with all this christmas stuff going on.
On the KPX I am exactly the same... 157FM. And as a side note, my serial number is *04055754* Wonder how close we come?
On the XTV, it's a totally different animal. There is a code there, k00085, but no apparant serial number.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Oh, and I just blew around my front yard with both carts... it was fun. Enough snow to cover the grass... few inches. BIG power slides and rediculous donuts.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Cool.. what did it cost... was it ebay? 150cc?
Keen industries has one with oil cooling that looks as though it has more output (12hp or so)
Going to be some really interesting things coming out of china now.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Some pics are on Keen industries site... the same link as the 250cc kart. They have an engines link there. Keen is new here, with a HQ in USA which should help a bit with parts (hopefully)
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Heathcrom
Hi guys,
I have taken pictures of my KPX and I'll soon put them up for all to see. Been busy. I bought this KPX for my wife and kids but man am I impressed for the 1800 I paid! I also finally figured out what my spare tube is for. It was a crankcase vent. Also, I noticed after driving it a few times (I am in the super dusty Tucson, AZ area), the engine would bog down and I had to clean the air filter after every other ride to get the engine back to peak. Then, after about 10 hours of operation, I couldn't get the engine to go over 15 mph or so. I cleaned the air filter again but it still bogged down. I checked over everything really carefully and found the chinese had installed the fuel filter backwards! I replaced it with a honda crf250 filter and now I have 3 times the power I had before without any of the breather problems! ie. I don't clean the carb air filter every other flight now.
I thought it had a lot of power with the backwards filter but man it has a whole lot more now. The only other buggies I have ever driven was the Kasea Explorer 250 and the Honda Odyssey I had as a kid (the 250 2 stroke) and of course it doesn't compare to either of these machines but I am very impressed with what this thing has pulled me up. To place this in perspective. There is a rather large mountain called Casa Grande Mountain with very steep trails leading to the top. Maybe RaptorAz knows of it? This buggy halls butt to the top often spinning its wheels.
I still have questions for you guys though. I have decided to forgoe my motorcycle and buy another Kart within the next 6 months or so. If it wasn't for the price I would go with the Kasea Explorer with the Kymco 250. I can get the Kasea for 3400+shipping. However, there are a bunch of 250's coming out but are any of them as powerful as the Explorer? When I drove the explorer, the top speed and power was damn good. Not quite the bang for the buck of a KPX though. It was head and shoulders above the KPX but I could buy 2 KPX's for the price of one Explorer even at the 3400+shipping and not the 5400 msrp from my local dealership. The peirspeeds BTW are sloooooow. Saw them in action so I won't consider them.
Thus here are my options as I see them :
1.Buy the Kasea Explorer with the Kymco 250.
2.Buy the new timberwolf 250 which isn't any cheaper than the kasea (is it any better???)
3.Wait until KPX comes out with their 250 which acording to them is by march of next year at a price of around 3k.
4.Buy another cheap KPX and up grade it with the linhai 250. BTW is linhai the company that makes the engine on my KPX?
What do you guys think on these issues or is there other Karts out there I dont know about? I found a carter XTV two months ago for 2300, and some of you guys are impressed with it as well so this may be an option but I weigh 235 lbs so I am going for more power if I can. BTW I would be perfectly happy buying another KPX but an explorer would make me extremely happy if it weren't for two things, the price and a weak front suspension(I bottomed out a lot and can readily push the explorers front in all the way down with my own body weight).
Thanks
I would say the Timberwolf may be a good option, and it currently is a good deal cheaper. About $2700 and they are offering discounted shipping with liftgate service (well under the usual $300) so the overall price is quite good. Probably $900 less than the kasea when shipping is figured in. We just need some reviews in a few months.
I wasn't aware that KPX was going to have a 250. That's interesting... no idea what that will be like. Thanks for the heads up.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Great, let us know how it goes. Most important, after it's broken in, we'd love to hear an actual speed report if you have an accurate way of measuring it.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: hvacman61
that was to be the xtv by carter ,sorryhr>
No, I do not. I can check in the next few days. Getting a little crazy with Christmas right now.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: bedo
to all the regulars in this forum,
i have been reading all the threads from you guys. i feel you all are a bunch of good people and i feel after reading this for the past months, you guys are good friends. everybody tries to help each other out. i just wanted to say, Merry Christimas to you all....
benhr>
That's why user groups are so great! BR>
Common interests, common agendas, and it brings out the good in people...
Happy Holidays all!
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Just another one of the many ways to get one of these. On the plus side, they have been around a long time so they are less likely to go away and leave people high and dry for parts.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: bedo
for all of us thats in the hills of east tenn.., how do you get an off road vehicle registered with the dmv and is the green sticker like a liscence or what? i thought that if it was off road, there was no need or you couldnt register it with the state. learn something new everyday...
Most states don't require it that I am aware of... check with your DEM or DMV
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Vetteman
I found this forum looking for some info on the Hammerhead Twister Karts. I bought a green one about 4-5 months ago for the kids, they just run around the neighbor hood on it. I was wanting to change the wheels on it but it has some kind of funky bolt pattern. Does anyone know of any aftermarket wheels for the Hammerhead Twister? I intend to buy another one whan the 250cc version comes out.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Somewhere earlier in this thread it is mentioned. There is a brand of ATV that has the same pattern in the rear.
Man, another manufacterer coming out with 250s... too cool.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Anyone having any fun in the snow lately? Man, what a blast. The Xterro is a little more doggy in the snow than the XTV... but Wow... still a lot of fun. Mainly the tires on the XTV are much more squared off in the rear which I think helps gain more grip at low speeds.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Anyone know if there are aftermarket lug bolts that would fit these hubs easily available anywhere? I found that they are easy to strip with the provided locking nuts. Already stripped two apparantly. Was surprised to find that car parts places only stock by application and won't take the time to try to find a match... I'm sure there is something that would work... but of course you can't go back behind the counter yourself to look. Pain in the butt.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: acee
i bought a hammerhead for my wife for xmas. we took it to ocitillo this week. it did everything i was hoping it would do. but i think we broke it and broke it good. the chain was slipping so i tightend it up. but then it made a really ugly noise and wont roll now. it wont roll forward or backwards. the engine runs fine but its not moving. when i power it up it just sits. i put it up on blocks and i cant roll the rear wheels forward or backwards. i might be screwed big time cause i have no idea whats wrong .
The CHAIN was slipping? Never heard of such a thing. Sounds like the reverse box might be toasted?
But that should be a warranty item
Posted by: hopsterguy
Good idea... Couldn't believe how easily they would permanently lock onto the lug bolt/stud.
I have a bigger problem now. I cracked one of the arms off of a hub trying to get one of the nuts off. So I'll probably have to order a new hub anyhow. Don't think I would want to trust welding the arm back on... though I could probably do that.
Anyone using those locking lug nuts... lube up the studs first, or run into likely problems!!
Posted by: hopsterguy
My number one wish is that someone would have an on-line source for parts for these carts. ... That would be SOoooo nice.
Point, click, Done.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
Looks like sand highway is starting to have parts for some things like drive belts and piston etc. for dazons, kinda pricey though.
Dazon may be the way to go for more power if I ever get a single seater, just switch out the goofy dual chain setup and put the white bros pipe on it. I need fenders though. Looks like the new 150's have a real red color.
Still need some actual speed reports from the Blade buyers... >hint< >hint<
Dazon wants the bank
Posted by: hopsterguy
Hi Stu-
If you are still in need, I'm interested. I have both the KPX Xterro (2 seater based on the same chasis as your 150 DX) and the Carter Talon XTV single seater to compare against. We ride all week long, and winter hasn't stopped us yet. I'm lucky to have a riding area a few hundred feet down my road which allows riding at the drop of a hat.
Thanks for the carburetor information. Confirms that you are running a different carb than the KPX is (keihin), but both are of the 24mm variety.
The KPX Xterro is mild in take off and top speed, while the XTV is quicker to start and a higher top end of approximately 40mph.
If the Blade is closer to the XTV in terms of engine peformance than the Xterro is, I think it would be a winner.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Joe,
Good job on that report. My initial impression is that the weld quality is about the same among the carts. While the welds are functional, they are not exactly a work of art. I don't recall hearing of many failing, so at least they are holding together. From what I have heard, they are much better than the kind of welds found on carts such as the Yerf Dog models. On many of those carts I've heard reports of incomplete welds where dirt and water can actually get into the tubing!! Crazy... But to be sure, these chinese carts aren't fished off to the standards of the big 3 motorcycle manufacturers. That's fine with me though, because if they were, they would likely cost a whole lot more. Maybe with time and feedback that is something that can be worked on at the factories with minimal price impact. If you are able to get some close ups of particularly ugly welds (in your mind) I'll see what I can find on my Xterro as well for comparison. As a side note... the welds on my KPX Xterro seem about the same as those found on the Carter XTV. While my Suzuki Katana and Kawasaki ZX-11 have some very gorgeous welds to show off if you get close enough to see them BR>
Top speed, well, it sounds like you are a tad bit faster than the average chinese buggy. I had a pretty strong feeling we weren't going ot be talking about 50mph... but glad to see that 40 is a possibility. A head to head run against an Xterro or Twister Hammerhead would be great to arrange. I think I'm going ot have to pick up one of those little GPS thingys and verify the XTV and Xterro speeds soon on smooth level ground.
I really do like the look of the foam and fabric covered roll cage... I can only imagine the work it would take to put something like that together myself on the Xterro.
If you think the reverse is hitting particularly hard, try adjusting the cable. It's very possible that reverse is not fully engaged. It's pretty common for reverse cable adjustments to be needed right out of the box on the other brands of these carts.
The lights I've seen on these carts, as well as the XTV are on the dim side. Honestly, it seems when you are running two lights or more, there just aren't enough watts coming out of the generator to really drive the lights hard. I wired up some automobile halogen driving lights to the XTV and saw the same thing, then dropped it down to a single light, and VOILA... that single light is extremely bright... actually brigther than it was when I had both lights strung up together!
Happy carting!
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV<br
All the medication has had me in a constant cloud. Gee, how much credibility does my Blade report have if I miss our combined, married weight est by a 100lbs. Talk about rounding up!!
Haha... I've seen drug abuse... it isn't pretty. Please step away from the pills!
Just kidding, I'm a pharmacist. I must kid about these things.
Get better soon!
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Whoops. Stu's message is missing. Guess it got squashed.
Time to get some better pictures of the XTV and Xterro tomorrow if the weather permits. I'm sick of looking at those muddy
pics I have up there, and apparantly others are as well BR>
Heard through the grape vine that an official drop in 250cc replacement is being looked at for these carts. Something that can be plopped into place inside an existing 150cc buggy. Doesn't _that_ sound intersting!
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
These buggies are really starting to take off. I saw at least ten different ones this past weekend on my Glamis trip. Mostly Twister's from what I saw. I even saw a single seater with a fiberglass '32 Roadster body on it. Way cool!
My two did great this past weekend. I even launched my black one off a really good jump. Had to be at least 3-4 feet off the ground. Came down with a THUD, but didn't break anything. The only failure I can report, after a brutal flogging all weekend, was a dead battery.
How's everyone elses Kart's holding up?
Get any pictures at Glamis? I need to get more shots of my flogging expeditions, but I'm usually too busy driving around on these things to stop and shoot. That Roadster mod sounds cool.... I'd love to see some pics of that.
Is the charging circuit on the KPX carts weak or something? If you run around with the lights on for some time you may find yourself with a drained battery on mine. I've checked most wires and can't see anything grossly wrong. The kart runs great otherwise. I have some great chargers in the garage, but that's a bit annoying, and could be a real bummer deep in the woods.
A few times I've had the engine not want to shut down when switching off the ignition with the key. The kill button did the trick, but that was a bit strange. It's done it twice now out of very many engine starts and stops. Perhaps this is why the 2005s had an updated ignition switch.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
I took the plunge and orderd a Black 150DX Blade today with Stu from www.bladepowersports.com
He sounded like a really good guy, and I got the impression from finally talking to him by voice that he is very interested in feedback on
his products.
I just have to see directly how these things are comparing to the other carts out there. The top end definately seems
faster. I want to see if the lower end is suffering or if they did something to help all around performance like the XTV seems
to accomplish. Definately a damn good looking cart, and I love the seats, bar covers and roof liner in the pictures.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
I ever get a single seater, just switch out the goofy dual chain setup and put the white bros pipe on it. I need fenders though. .
Double chain... Not sure if it was mentioned here before or not but that double chain could actually help at times. If you are deep in the woods on a trail and you do throw a link, at least you should be able to limp back to home base on the remaining chain. On our carts that we have now, if we ever throw a link, we're screwed and towing.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: bedo
steve
did you get that good deal from stu? if you did, that's a great price. if i had the money last night when i talked with hiim, i would have gotten it. hopefully, i can get a similiar deal in the near future.
ben
Yeah, I couldn't pass the opportunity up. The blades look to be rockin' and I'm curious as all heck to compare.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Well, supposidly the CDIs in most of the carts this year were updated... gain a little more power there. Also, it's possible blade useses a freer breathing head (bigger valves, etc) and is able to gain power that way to allow taller gearing. Hopefully I'll know a little more by the end of the month or so. Next shipment is due 1/20 or thereabouts at Blade and that is the one that has my kart on it. BR>
I'm pretty excited about the black. I know that it will show dirt a lot more, but major paint scrapes will be easier to match along the way. I'm always hitting rocks, etc. Where I ride the most, there is some pretty rough terrain as it's an old abandoned quarry system.
The best part is that the entire family could now squeeze onto our carts for a trek. Still haven't convinced the little lady to do it though. Hell, my mom has even had a ride and she doesn't live anywhere around here. BR>
Posted by: hopsterguy
So much for the weather and photos. Snow and rain all day. I live on the south coast of New England where we tend to get that ugly slushy mix a lot. Tends to save us from the big accumulations though, so that's nice.
Kell, I have to tell you, I sill had a lot of fun in the snow on both my karts. YEah, they were doggy, and you couldn't go up much of a hill... but it was still a lot of fun. Endless donuts and huge power slides spraying snow EVERYWHERE... it was really cool I have a large hill on my property and I was climbing the plowed driveway and shooting down the hill from the top. What a blast! One of my dark pictures shows the driveway and hill. The kids loved it.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
The engine code should tell us if it is the same engine as ours. ( 157FM )
So far the KPX, Twister, Carter Talon all have the same code, the carter XTV did not.
If we can match your code up to say a Dazon, then we would know it had the same engine at a better price! Larger valves and higher compression can make more power even though bore and stroke and carbs are the same. Exhaust port, carb, electronics etc. where exactly the same on the 125cc I had. I know the 150cc is just a bored out 125 so I guess they just left the head etc. the same (except for dazon and yerf dog). Imagine the aftermarket potential for someone who sells hi-performance parts for these. I still think someone somewhere will start racing them, there are just so many now. It performs much more like an atv than a go-cart, and to me its more fun than my bros rhino.
!
My understanding is that the engines are litterally put together on site. The 157FM may be the crank case code, but who knows what is going on in the head. Most of the carts are using the same frames, but engines and electrics will have different flavors to them. Take a look at the factory tour page for Kinroad:
Kinroad Factory Tour
Engine workshop is shown on top there.
KPX is using New Era for their carts, from my understanding.
Blade is using Kinroad.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: bedo
i was out the other day to this used car lot that sells carter's. the guy told me that all carters were built in taiwan. i questioned it and he almost got mad. do all or most of these, twisters,kpx,blade, carter, are they made in the same origin, china? or could it be possible that some are made in taiwan. you mentioned that the engines could come from about anywhere. so i dont know.....
In a global marketplace it is very hard to tell where everything is coming from unless you are the person orchestrating it. But I can tell you for sure that all Carters are not foreign made. Their classic carts and XTVs are american made in Alabama. The talon line from carter is chinese from what I've heard from mutiple sources. Kasea is a korean company, and they advertise as made in korea, but some of their carts look just like the chinese versions... who knows, maybe Kasea is having the frames made for them in china and finishing the cart in Korea. Anything is possible.
Only way to know for sure is to call carter and ask where the Talons are made. I'm willing to bet it's China though. Some of the new era carts look just like Carter/Twister.
Frames appear to be shared among final assembly manufacturers with only minor differences on frame appearance/cosmetics.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Just realized the KPX and Awesome Buggy style of carts have one less cross member on the roll cage behind the headrest then most of the other carts of this style. Probably no big deal... but wonder if they fair worse in a rollover at all? Maybe save some bending anyhow. Blade, Carter, Dazon, Twister have the extra bar.
Posted by: hopsterguy
When I talked to Stuart at Blade the other night, he mentioned he saw my post about parts being available on-line for easy ordering. He said that is something he wants to go ahead with. Sounds good!
On that note, Awesome Buggys updated their site a little bit finally. They state on there they can get or have parts to fit just about any chinese cart out there. They mention all the big names. I wonder how extensive the parts availability is though. If these guys can get literally every part for every cart then they sound like the guys that could shed light on the performance differences out there and boil it all down in a nutshell.
On other thing... they mention that their single is the same unit sold as the basic dazon single. They say it is from the same factory. I have to think there would be an engine difference, but who knows. Given that they are offering cross brand parts, it seems they would know.
Here's an odd thing though... the title of the single page is called XTERRO SINGLE 150CC (HULK)... so are they saying the KPX Xterro Hulk is exactly the same as the Raider 150????? Too much confusing info out there.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Absolutely. I'm sure I'll have lots of comments. I can't wait to get my hands on this bugger.
A nice side effect of having both the Xterro and the Blade will be seeing exactly which parts are going to be interchangable between the two and trying to get a feeling for the quality of the electrics, etc.
I can already see by the pictures that the braded lines are there (missing on kpx) and the nicer quality master cylinder is installed as well.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
I heard they were due at some point in march.
Was stated to be 18hp.
Posted by: hopsterguy
I asked AwesomeBuggys about their single seater that is said to be the same as the Dazon Raider 150 basic model. They state on the page that it comes from the same factory... I asked which factory they are from out of curiousity. I also asked if the engine was the same or something to that effect.
They stated:
the motors in these carts i am told come from syngin corp. i have no idea who
that is. i have orderded parts from dazon for these carts and they fit. thank
you for your interest, david
Not exactly what I was looking for, as my main question was the factory these are made out of.
Anyone ever heard of "syngin corp"?
I couldn't come up with anything...
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: CE750
What is going to be 18hp...the blades?
Yes, sorry, that was an answer to your earlier question. Stu is coming out with a 250 blade. It is due in March as well and was stated to be 18hp.
Posted by: hopsterguy
JosephV- It would be good if we could get a close up picture of the underside of the engine head where the exhaust pipe exits. We are interested in the angle of the pipe at that exit. Also, if you could read your engine code, that would be interesting too. Any close ups of the exhaust can itself would be useful as well. I won't have mine for a little bit yet as it's crossing the ocean. BR>
Thanks,
Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV
Man, the weather has been terrible. I've got a macro setting on my camera ... I'll see how it works. I can't do it today, but can on Saturday. I'll post them ASAP.
Joe
Check my photos and you will see the type of shot I mean. It will give us more ideas on exhaust options available out there. I didn't find any need for macro on my camera. Came out well just with a simple zoom function. Try to get side and rear shots of the cannister as well.
Thank you!
Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Glad to see it's back...
Posted by: hopsterguy
Cool. Very much look forward to thos pics.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Kell-
Would you have abilty to take video and post it? I want to get a better feeling for what your exhaust sounds like on your Hammerhead if possible. I'll try to get some video soon for an engine sound sample of the Xterro with Toy Junkies parts. I suspect
from what you said that we are a little more loud than you.... and your canister looks great, and sound deadening. BR>
Thanks man,
Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: JosephV
I'm afraid to type We are all contributing to this board in one way or another. At times, we may need to contact one another for NON-revenue/business purposes. Is it okay for us to share our NON-business email and telephone information? I'm not trying to start anything, I just want to know.
/q]
No repsonse to this???? I seriously want to know this as well. I feel like I can't say half of what I would like to say.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Okay, here we go.
I finally got around to ordering a White Brothers CDI for the Xterro. We'll see what happens soon folks.
BR>
Posted by: hopsterguy
Welcome Lurker! BR>
I'm sure there are a bunch of you out there... why don't you all say "Hi!"???
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
The blade engine code is different and I have pictures to prove it straight from the horses mouth. BR>
Looks like JL15704
What this all means? Who knows! hah
But can add fuel to the fire of why blade seems to be getting more speed according to what has been heard so far.
I've posted tons of detail pics.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Raptorraz,
I didn't get it yet. These pics came in my e-mail by surprise. I had them posted eslewhere first... which apparantly I cant mention without this thread being yanked. I had to get rid of a bunch of my other pics to load them up here since they don't give us enough space for such things.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Kell,
I would say, unless you really need that 250 mod now, it may be worth waiting and seeing if the plug and play solution is going to become a reality or not. From what I heard, it will even come with the needed brackets, etc to mount the radiator and everything. Only thing, there is no known eta yet... or if it is going to even happen for certain.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Heathcrom and Kell, you have PMs.
Thanks
Posted by: hopsterguy
I wouldn't say the carter XTV is more desirable. I'm just happier with the drive train power out of it. BR>
Looked at those pics... it's a very large cart with independent rear suspension... C/V joints... the works just like
the Kean Idustries (Timerwolf 250) cart we talked about a few weeks back. Thing is, it looks heavy! ... will be interested to find
out how heavy that bugger is. The timerwolf was only in the 400's and it's a 250cc as well based on Honda
blueprints... likely to be pretty good from what I could see.
Blade has a 250 coming out but I have no idea what it looks like
Quote
Originally posted by: Heathcrom
Hi Everyone,
Trying to make it out of the lurker stage into actual contributer. To answer a question first. Casa grande mountain is on the sw corner of I8/I10 intersection. Get off on exit 200 and take the first right just on the other side of the loves gas station/truck stop. Loads of off roading back there. I live about 4 miles from there and drive my xterro to the mountain.
Now for some information. I spoke with Josh Harrison of KPX motorsports. He gave me a couple pieces of information.
First of all, he gave me the web site for the official factory replacement part and upgrade business for the KPX xterro. I am about to go check it out. Haven't yet. Since it is a commercial site, you'll have to email me if you want it. He said it was actually a place to buy parts from the chinese factory so the website covers more than the xterro. It is supposed to carry all things made from that factory in china. I think it is Tong Jian
Secondly, I have information and pictures of the upcoming 250cc xterro. So far they only have the prototype built and it is not in the manufacturing stage as of yet. It is completely 4 wheel independent suspension, shaft driven, water cooled 250cc. Thats really all I know. It is a large cart. I'm gonna go down there and ride it hopefully in the next couple weeks to compare it with my 2005 xterro. I posted it on my own personal web page. Since the page is only an informative page about mostly bulldogs, I assume I can post it here. My email addy is on the page so email me if you want the other parts site. (lotsabull.com) click on the offroading tab
I will put pictures of my 2005 xterro on there as well. and as for it. I gps'd it for speed. With my 235lbs it went 34mph. My 112lb wife got it to 38mph. This was on dirt. So far my main complaint is the seats aren't made for someone as heavy as me. They haven't broken but when I ramp the beast, the seats scrape the bar behind them and have put a tiny pit in one bar not to mention the loss of paint. I had to put foam on the roll bars behind the seats.
One last comment. I know of a web site where the carter 2 seater xtv sells for 1924. If it is truly faster and better than the xterro, maybe you guys should consider it? I looked at hopsterguy's and the one seater (which sells for 1800 on this site) looked huge compared to the xterro. Is the xtv more desirable or what? They are apparantly the same price now. I would be happy to furnish you with this site as well if you want to buy a carter xtv. Their talons are 2505 with free shipping BTW.
Hope this adds some info for you guys. Your knowledge has been very helpful to me so hopefully I can help as well.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Vetteman
Quote
Originally posted by: Heathcrom
Hi Everyone,
Trying to make it out of the lurker stage into actual contributer. To answer a question first. Casa grande mountain is on the sw corner of I8/I10 intersection. Get off on exit 200 and take the first right just on the other side of the loves gas station/truck stop. Loads of off roading back there. I live about 4 miles from there and drive my xterro to the mountain.
Now for some information. I spoke with Josh Harrison of KPX motorsports. He gave me a couple pieces of information.
First of all, he gave me the web site for the official factory replacement part and upgrade business for the KPX xterro. I am about to go check it out. Haven't yet. Since it is a commercial site, you'll have to email me if you want it. He said it was actually a place to buy parts from the chinese factory so the website covers more than the xterro. It is supposed to carry all things made from that factory in china. I think it is Tong Jian
Secondly, I have information and pictures of the upcoming 250cc xterro. So far they only have the prototype built and it is not in the manufacturing stage as of yet. It is completely 4 wheel independent suspension, shaft driven, water cooled 250cc. Thats really all I know. It is a large cart. I'm gonna go down there and ride it hopefully in the next couple weeks to compare it with my 2005 xterro. I posted it on my own personal web page. Since the page is only an informative page about mostly bulldogs, I assume I can post it here. My email addy is on the page so email me if you want the other parts site. (lotsabull.com) click on the offroading tab
I will put pictures of my 2005 xterro on there as well. and as for it. I gps'd it for speed. With my 235lbs it went 34mph. My 112lb wife got it to 38mph. This was on dirt. So far my main complaint is the seats aren't made for someone as heavy as me. They haven't broken but when I ramp the beast, the seats scrape the bar behind them and have put a tiny pit in one bar not to mention the loss of paint. I had to put foam on the roll bars behind the seats.
One last comment. I know of a web site where the carter 2 seater xtv sells for 1924. If it is truly faster and better than the xterro, maybe you guys should consider it? I looked at hopsterguy's and the one seater (which sells for 1800 on this site) looked huge compared to the xterro. Is the xtv more desirable or what? They are apparantly the same price now. I would be happy to furnish you with this site as well if you want to buy a carter xtv. Their talons are 2505 with free shipping BTW.
Hope this adds some info for you guys. Your knowledge has been very helpful to me so hopefully I can help as well.
Heathcrom
I checked out your site and looked at those pictures, thanks for posting them. It does look kinda big. I think I will wait until we can see them all before I buy a 250 cc cart . I still wish we could buy accessories for the ones we have, mainly wheels.
Vetteman
Ps. I like those bulldogs.
What do you mean you can't get wheels?? There are always options, including changing the hubs. BR>
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
I heard one other report on a twister I think... but I never heard any feedback on what had to be done to it to resolve the issue.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Yeah, I'm thinking if I'm going to go that far I'd just assume use a different engine at this point.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Video!!!! 2004 KPX Xterro in the snow...
http://members.cox.net/hopsterflyer2/xterrointhesnow.wmv
Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Lot of fun and we are about to get hammered with more. 16-22 inches tomorrow!!!
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Yeah, but no buggy riding for me now! Way too much snow. Was over 2 feet in the Blizzard of 2005. Took over a day to dig out my 180 foot driveway. I'll ride on the snowy roads for now BR>
Posted by: hopsterguy
They all updated in 2005 so I think they are going to be much closer now in power ratings.
Dazon still says it has 11 hp while others are 12hp or more at this point.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Thanks Raptorraz... that's what I thought I was hearing before.
Now , with the power increases in KPX and other carts like them, I wonder where they stand??
-Steve
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
Quote
Originally posted by: OCduner
Yes I saw that but it cannot be accurate. Someone is wrong. Either they are boasting or Dazon is underestimating. Plus if you put the hop up kit you will have 30% more and that is from White Brothers.
All I know is my particular kart was faster then those other particular karts I raced. We did flat out drags and I was quicker off the line and they never came close. We did it a few times to rule out reaction time.
Them we raced on berm tracks with the Twister. If I went out first I would pull away. If he went out first I would ride his tail. We even swapped karts. His seat was nicer because mine was a 2004 and Dazon had not upgraded to the race seats but I think the new Dazon seats are way better then the Twister seats.
OCduner
You wouldn't happen to work for Dazon or a Dazon dealer would you?
I've done multiple drags as well with My KPX's, Yerf, and Dazon. In stock, bolt-on, and internally modified forms. And yes the Dazon is faster in all forms. But not dramatically so. Only a length or two at most. And that's only in a drag race. Top speeds are all within a mile an hour or two(GPS verified).
Posted by: hopsterguy
Got the Blade done and built.
Great looking cart... The frame is POWDER COATED which makes a huge difference in scratch resistance. This is huge to me as the KPX Xterro paint was extremely easy to scratch. Rub anything remotely rough against it and it would scrape right to the metal. Not the blade.
Takes effort to damage the coating.
Tires seem good quality and they are big.
Here's the thing though... it's a 10HP cart just like many of the 2004s out there. It's just geared/tired to run a faster max speed.
I swear I read somewhere that it was 12.5 hp, and looked everywhere, but can't find that info now. Definately not. The manual clearly states it's 10hp.
I'll be getting that East Side pipe for it more than likely Kell!
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
I believe once you get it sorted out you will be happy. We've heard of KPX support horror stories before as well. But some people seem to have a lot of luck with them. I think it's hit or miss, honestly.
At least one dealer in their network left them saying they were too hard to deal with.
The blade has LOWER low end torque due to higher gearing.
Somehow 12.5 hp got out, but that's not the case. It's rated horsepower is 10 according to it's own
manual and DVD assembly video that comes with it in shipment.
So, in the end, it has no more horsepower than a 2004 KPX but the lower end is slower, and
slower acceleration due to the higher gearing.
Since the 2005 KPX Xterro has had improvments to the engine that have said to increase horsepower
and torque, I think it's a good choice right now. This judging on the videos of the 2005 KPX from Heath and
descriptions others have made. I'd like to get my hands on one and see it for myself.
Blade has a good frame (though narrow for two seater... dazon raidermax is the same frame, etc), awesome powder coating instead of paint, and comes with lots of cool options but feels slower than a stock 2004 xterro did due to gearing. Does appear to have a
higher top end speed, but takes some time to get there.
-Steve
Quote
Originally posted by: DiverDown
Quote
Originally posted by: RAPTORAZ
Quote
Originally posted by: DiverDown
Quote
bought a hammerhead for my wife for xmas. we took it to ocitillo this week. it did everything i was hoping it would do. but i think we broke it and broke it good. the chain was slipping so i tightend it up. but then it made a really ugly noise and wont roll now. it wont roll forward or backwards. the engine runs fine but its not moving. when i power it up it just sits. i put it up on blocks and i cant roll the rear wheels forward or backwards. i might be screwed big time cause i have no idea whats wrong .
We took our cart out for the first time after the breakin period on MLK day and had a similar problem. After hitting a bump in the road the chain went slack and the cart won't move. On closer inspection the output shaft from the gear box is sagging. It looks like something inside the gear box snapped.
Has anybody done any work to thier gear box yet or are these "black boxes". I have been trying to get ahold of KPX but thier tech support has been out sick.
You're the first I've heard of having any gear box problems. So I'd say it's an isolated problem.Let us know what KPX does for you. Hopefully a new Kart will be the outcome.
I am very dissapointed in KPX. At this point I wish I had gone with the Blade or just waited for one 250 units to come out. After spending 2 weeks trying to get ahold of KPX'x customer service, and sending them pictures, part numbers, drawing numbers everything somebody that had never seen a gearbox would need to get me a new part what happens? Their technical expert sends me the wrong part and then says I gave him the wrong information and I have to pay for shipping to get this part back to him before he will send me the correct part.
After a couple hours on the phone with David the owner and sending him all of the emails I had sent to AJ, he admits they screwed up and will get me a new shaft. That was a week ago. Still no shaft . UPS ground from Tucson to here is 1 day.
It has been a total of 3 weeks now that I have been trying to get this part.
The cart seems to be pretty decent ( I still think it is way more robust than our yerf dog) unfortunately KPX as a company seems to have some serious problems.
Posted by: hopsterguy
NASTY GEARBOX SUPPORT FAILURE on 2004 Xterro!!!
Whelp, looks like i get to try the warranty process.
Was riding in the snow covered dirt today with the kids. We were
out for quite a while! Great fun...
Anyway, I backed it into a small shallow ditch, put it in forward,
and wheels spun in the mud,snow, dirt mix, then when they caught on
the harder dirt I heard a BANG and a nasy clacking and spinning
sound. All power was gone on the wheels. Got out expect to see a
broken chain, or one of the gearbox issues discussed before, but
what I got was a whoosey.
It appears that the connection from the gearbox supporting arm to
the engine case failed. I found the bolt that goes through the
crack case of the engine into the supporting arm and it was sheared
off.. but it sheared at a point inside the crankcase and took that
section of the case with it!
In the end I guess I'm not sure if the crankcase failed or the bolt
that inserted into the crank case because both are damaged. The
fact that the bolt is sheered tells me it was most likely the bolt.
What resulted after this was absolutely nasty.... of course I was
under power at the time when it let go, and when the supporting arm
is allowed to run free watch out!!! instead of the wheels and chain
spinning, once the gearbox is allowed to break free it spins!!! and
everything attached to it spins as well. It chewed up and
shattered the plastic case around the gearbox, the supporting arms
were twisted like you would not believe as they banged agains the
rear swing arm and the drive shaft. The reverse cable was sheared
off from hitting part of the rear swing arm.
What a mess!!!
I'm waiting to get pictures of all this... batteries are charging
now for the camera.
KPX is gonna love this one!
Edit... pictures are posted on my picture page
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Hey Kell.. that's awesome. We have the same engine... wonder what just milling the original head would give us without valves of the yerf.
Do you have access to a machine shop, or do you have yer own mill??
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Wow... very cool info. Thanks Kell.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Thanks Kell.. I'll go look at it.
Been busy gathering up information on my warranty claim with the Xterro.
FINALLY talked to AJ and as soon as I mentioned the Boss on the engine
was broken by the sheared bolt he started saying photos would have to
be sent to China to see if the "manufacturer would warranty it"
Rediculous.
As far as I was concerned my warranty was with KPX in the USA, not XYZ
Zhang buggy builders of China.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Oh yeah... and AJ mentioned that the bolt is not grade 8 on purpose so it breaks before the engine boss does.
Whelp... didn't work this time! Maybe if the bolt would break outside the boss instead of in it we'd be getting somewhere.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Yeah, AJ seemed as though he was pretty good as denying things under warranty.
I was getting the same vibe from him before Josh came on himeself and said he would cover my issues publically at another site. We'll see how long this takes though. I'm not holding my breath. I'll have to
wait it out though... I'lll be damned if I'm buying all the parts for the type of damage I had!
I've also had a few little issues with a Blade, but Stu backs his stuff up well and is very responsive.
By the way, in case you weren't yet aware. AJ just quit.
That would make their 2nd parts person at KPX that quit in the last 4 or 5 months... isn't that right?
See my photos on here for images of my damage. A bolt let go at the engine that attached the gearbox support arm to the crankcase. Nasty mess.
AJ said it was non grade 8 so it would break away under stress and save the engine boss.
Well guess what? The engine boss went anyway because it broke too deep inside th boss to save it and all sorts of leveraged force was applied to the boss lip.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
Quote
Originally posted by: R6rider
dang, and i thought i was doing good with some cheesy lights on the front... lol
How are you liking the carter? Be sure and post your comparisons when you receive the blade. It's awful muddy this time of year if you have been riding with no fenders!
Haha... tell me about it. When I ride my XTV I come home looking like the guys on that Peirspeed site.
I'm going to have to start wearing a rain suit or something.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
Most of these companies are in the import business, not the backing up what they sell business. It seems like there is a chinese quad seller on every corner now, and when you ask them if they stock parts they say no. Larger companies like Carter, Twister or Kasea are most likely going to have better warranties and actually stock parts. This is probably why they charge more for there carts.
Have you rebuilt the top end yet? Just wondering, mine still smokes some after replacing the valve seals so I will have to at least put rings in it. I guess I might as well put a piston in it also. Did you hone your cylinder or are these so small you shouldn't bother scuffing it up?
My problems are due to poorly designed air filter also.
If there is room to bore, I might as well get a piston and rings for the alpha motorsports 170cc quad which has the same engine except larger bore (stroke is the same).
Apparantly there is a 190 upgrade kit that will work for these engines.
Heath is looking into it.
He ran into a guy with a hopped up Kasea that was blasting away his 2005 Xterro and is getting lots of ideas from him slowly.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Quote
Originally posted by: Kell
Steve, here is the link to view the 170cc parts, same stroke just different bore:
cobra 180 parts link
Its called cobra 180 and you have to look at the parts diagram, it cost too much for just piston and rings though, something like $170, anyway it just kinda gives an idea of whats out there.
Cool. Heath ran into a small engine repair guy in Arizona that stocks Kasea parts. He got to talking to the guy and he really seems to know his stuff. He specifically mentioned a 190 kit on the market that will fit these engines... he also knew of a 250 kit, but said it wouldn't work for these specific GY6 engines. This small engine guy's eyes seemed to light up at the idea that he could sell lots of hop up parts so we may have something here. He's interested in sponsering races too. Apparantly this guy has lots of ideas for making these engines run stronger and has already given Heath some small tips which have increased performance on his 2005 Xterro. Heath is trying to drag more info out of the guy slowly... he's an incredibly busy repair guy and Heath has to keep talking to the guy while he's rebuilding engines at the same time, etc.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
You'd have to ask him more about it.. something about feeding one of the tubing leads into the intake manifold.
Said it helped his performance some.
He's picking this guys brain every chance he get's and posting about it elsewhere.
Posted by: hopsterguy
Though if that truely is a 175cc buggy, it has a little better HP out of the box and will be better able to deal with the higher gearing.
Be warned... I emailed that seller several times a few days ago for more details ... and they don't bother getting back with answers to questions.
So I'd stay far away...
IMHO
Posted by: hopsterguy
If there weren't so many things wrong with the other specs in that auction I'd say thats a really good deal.
But there are numerous things WAY off there.
Check your private messages.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
The auction is a Peirspeed... they look like good buggys. Pretty big, and slow (why is SPEED in the name???) but
they are said to have good low end torque.
The Sahara is another cart made by Kinroad.
I'm not a bid fan of the Joyners... very big and heavy... but who knows, maybe they would surprise me.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
Titan II is very similar to the regular Peirspeed... a good buggy.
The single seater looks pretty rad.
-Stevo
Posted by: hopsterguy
Both are geared for low end.. which is really good if you climb a lot of hills. If you want speed, you have to look elsewhere or re-gear.
Suspension movement lacking?? I wouldn't say that. I've largely changed my mind on these buggys after seeing some good video.
They are just not geared for speed... that's all. Otherwise they look pretty cool!
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
I've been waiting to hear more about one of the Sunl buggys. I've heard mixed reviews as well.
Thanks for the report...
Posted by: hopsterguy
Or just do what several others I've run across have done, and gut the pipe for more flow... add the higher jetting, and get the UNI filter... Good results and very cheap.
-Steve
Posted by: hopsterguy
I've seen both done. Better air flow if you remove everything totally. People have found muffler extentions at car shops that fit about right and then weld a little arm on it so it can bolt right up to the existing frame mount.
Quote
Originally posted by: oztwister
just brought a pod filter for my twister. should i remove the air box completely and run the ducting straight to the carby with the pod on the end.
or just remove the stock air filter and put the pod on the end of the duct.
which would work better
thanks
Posted by: hopsterguy
From sources that have been in china recently... it's still not in production believe it or not.
-S
Posted by: RMMan317
Way cool! I was looking for hop ups and info the the 05' Twisters. This site has been very resourceful - Thanks all.
I just bought a 05 twister double hammerhead and overall these karts are pretty awesome. I picked mine up from Indiana PowerSports (www.indianapowersports.com ... I think) and they were good people to work with. I ended up around $2800 out the door. Not sure if thats high for this exact unit but it seemed more thought was put into the design and added features over the KPX and other units. I bought the metallic silver with the chromed aluminum rims and the kart looks tough. I too am looking for more low end grunt though and may have to try the air filter / pipe combo!
Take Care!
Al
Posted by: RMMan317
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2498068286&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMESE%3AIT
Here's a twister just like mine going on ebay looks like a paid a bit much - I was able to pick it up however.
Posted by: RMMan317
I am from Merrillville - Northwest Indiana around 30 minutes from Chicago. Just came back from louisville last weekend - went right by evensville. There are a few places to ride up around here but many the cops will chase you out of (nothing better to do!). We do have the crossings motocross and atv park here though (www.crossingsmx.com). He's not always allowing atv's out there but will on occassions when dust is not an issue.
Take Care!
Al
Posted by: mamurray
I saw this rev limiter posted on yahoo groups TJ powersports. Go to ebay and insert this number in the search box. 4504719825 If you don't find it let me know, I think I saved the info on the company that is selling these. They are supposed to add 1000 rpm. Hope this helps, Mike
Posted by: mamurray
I really got this out of place, I thought it was going to post after a previous message, sorry.
Posted by: mamurray
The '04 and '05 have different part numbers, but I don't know if that's because of different numbers of teeth or chain size or mounting configuration. If it's just tooth number that would be a way for people to change their gearing. Mike
Posted by: mamurray
Three of us bought the '05 Hammerheads but unfortunately there are no other karts to compare them to. I read that people say they lack hill climbing power but that hasn't been out experience. We took them to some ATV trails and they would climb anything we tried. Wheel spin appeared to be the limiting factor. A couple of times when climbing the trails I had it on the back wheels!
I would like to hear from someone that could compare the '05 Hammerhead to the '04's and all the other brands. Maybe they all changed and have more power for 2005. By the way we are still in the break in phase and I don't think I've gone over half throttle yet.
We look forward to camping and riding the four state area of Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma with a week in Colorado.
As for the parts, I was referring to the drive sprocket and I'm guessing they were about $10 for the '04 and $20 for the '05. I wonder if the chain size is larger for '05? Mike
Posted by: mamurray
Will the Yerf head fit the Twister? Mike
Posted by: mamurray
Has anyone had any trouble with the reverse jumping out of gear? I have a twister and the problem was taken care of right away under warranty but I'm just curious. It was not a cable adjustment problem as the entire gearbox was replaced. I suppose all the karts use the same reverse gearbox. By the way my drive sprocket is a 16 tooth.
Posted by: mamurray
Are there any kart riders in the four state area of Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Arkansas? We've got a great riding site on the Verdigris River in the Coffeyville area.
Posted by: hvacman61
do you know the sprocket teeth count on the atv
Posted by: hvacman61
that was to be the xtv by carter ,sorry
Posted by: hvacman61
thank you very much no need to hurry ,happy holidays too all
Posted by: hvacman61
Posted by: hvacman61
i own a kpx also and had to rebuild my top end cause the air filter is a poor design and AJ said it was not covered under warranty,also the exhaust muffler broke 6 mos ago i am still waiting for a replacement so after mos of phone calls i to got tired of wasting my time with these people not to mention the cost of all the phone calls,it is totally desguisting to have companies like kpx or what ever they call them selves these days,to deal with,i wish i could get this cart under some kind of lemon law.i have had other problems also and they fail to cover parts under warranty
Posted by: hvacman61
i had the same problem from kpx i never did recieve my parts, also i belive that they put a piston kit on my cart before shipping to me,i have had alot of problems with this cart 150cc, i ended up redoing the engine w new pistons, ported cyl head ,also got exhaust and air filter kit w jet, now this all took place at about 4 mos old just out of warranty,i also had the old style air filter which is what i know took out the piston and cylinder
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Posted by: Twisters
Where can i get a look at a different CDI box and a hotter coil I was able to find a pipe at eastsidems but that was it. Thanks
Posted by: Heathcrom
Hi all, Lurker here.
First of all. Thank you all for your thread. I had narrowed my choices down to a manco and a carter until reading it. Then, you opened my eyes to other carts.
First of all, have any of you ever drove/ridden/seen in action a manco XTC 713e? It has 404cc robin motor and was my first choice until recently. Seems it should be able to eat up a 150cc after mods? The cart doesn't look as cool as a hammerhead.
Now for my contribution. Been checking out and test driving carts. Unfortunately, the one dealer with a 713e just gave me a bunch of dealer crap and no test. I am 235lbs so suspension and welds are as important as engine. I basically jumped up and down, picked up and slammed down some carts and heres them ranked from best to worst.
1. Hammerhead - wow, that kart is solid. Love the suspension. Could hardly compress it standing on it. Side to side it performed great.
2.KPX - about the same. Springs slightly weaker.
3.Carter talon - side to side it creaked. Shocked bottomed out more easily, still solid.
4.Kaseo explorer and 150r2 - no complaints but not as stiff as the others.
4.Manco 713e. The back which was supposed to be fully suspended isn't. Frame seemed cheap although engine looked huge and awesome.
5.250cc peirspeeds -huge cart made poorly. I could actually move the wields.
6.toy junkies 250cc - crap, total.
I then road tested a few. I never topped out any of them but accelerating my weight was good enough.
1.Kaseo explorer. This thing is bitchin fast and powerful. As good as the Honda Odyssey fl250 but pricey as hell. I found one for 4k slightly used.
2.Kaseo 150r2 and KPX - Kaseo seemed like it had better top end, both were exciting to zoom around in. Very peppy, both of them pulled me up a large 30 degree incline easily.
3.Hammerhead - sluggish take off but great in the mid range.
4.250cc peirspeeds - They were faster than 2&3 above but took awhile to get there. Smoked like crazy.
5.Toy junkies -crap and leaked oil everywhere.
Price comparisons-I am sure you all know about the prices. Lets just say when I found out KPX was in tucson where I live, and I don't have to pay shipping, and I called them. Well, I am buying a 2 seater and a one seater for less than a single one of the others! That is, unless someone convinces me the 713 is better???
Thanks,
Heath
Posted by: Heathcrom
Picked up my xterroin Tucson, direct from Josh (nice guy). Got it home and assembled it it an hour. Problem is I had one spare part left which wasn't mentioned in the manual. Prepare, this is going to spawn into several questions. The spare part was a tube. The tube is about 10 inches long and looks to be a breather or a gas line.
So I looked over the machine closely for some place a tube could connect but didn't. I found none. Then I thought, maybe it connects to another tube. I found four tubes which were connected on one end only. I will provide manual pages and part numbers for those who have the manual.
Tube 1art Ref No.10, Part ID#M150-1001001. This tube comes off the cylinder head cover. One end is connected to the port off the head and the other end is thicker and has a clamp connected on it but is not connected to anything. Sometimes, these things are fed back with a PVC valve to the carb so I think this is a high candidate for connecting to something "it has an unused clamp so it must go to something!"
Tube 2art Ref No.22, Part ID#M150-1003400. This tube comes off the crankcase and doesn't terminate.
Tube 3art Ref No.28, Part ID#16199-GT8-600. This tube comes off of the float chamber and is used to drain fuel for winter storage so probably only one end should be connected.
Tube 4art Ref No.19, Part ID#95005-45270-50. Very short tube bending down coming off of the carb. Probably the intake for the needle jet?
Any info on the mystery tubes and these 4 tubes would be appreciated. The Kart runs as is but idle isn't perfectly steady. However, my 245lb bulk climbed 500 feet of nearly vertical mountain with the gas pedal barely down so the low end torque is awesome on the 2005!
Thanks
Heath
Posted by: Heathcrom
I will get pics up on my web site for you. I am not sure how to post pics here or the rules. The 2005 has 22 inch rear tires and they are quite huge. Since I am unfamiliar with prior years, this is the only true difference I know of right now.
I was told the chain and sprocket are heftier. The chain is thicker and stronger than that on my Ninja so I assume it won't fail.
Now for the tube. Thanks for the infor on the head cover. Maybe the extra tube is just to extend it to wherever you want. As it sits, it is on the casing which could heat up. The tube connecting to the side of the carb and the T-connector are all in place. You ar right the engine suction from the butterfly intake allows extra fuel to be pulled into the carb.
Like I said, I'll try to get pictures by days end. BTW, the only main flaw I see is the shock absorbers. If I had my bike shocks on then the thing would never bottom out. Does anyone know of some good stiff quad shocks or something that will fit this thing?
Thanks
Heath
Posted by: Heathcrom
Hi guys,
I have taken pictures of my KPX and I'll soon put them up for all to see. Been busy. I bought this KPX for my wife and kids but man am I impressed for the 1800 I paid! I also finally figured out what my spare tube is for. It was a crankcase vent. Also, I noticed after driving it a few times (I am in the super dusty Tucson, AZ area), the engine would bog down and I had to clean the air filter after every other ride to get the engine back to peak. Then, after about 10 hours of operation, I couldn't get the engine to go over 15 mph or so. I cleaned the air filter again but it still bogged down. I checked over everything really carefully and found the chinese had installed the fuel filter backwards! I replaced it with a honda crf250 filter and now I have 3 times the power I had before without any of the breather problems! ie. I don't clean the carb air filter every other flight now.
I thought it had a lot of power with the backwards filter but man it has a whole lot more now. The only other buggies I have ever driven was the Kasea Explorer 250 and the Honda Odyssey I had as a kid (the 250 2 stroke) and of course it doesn't compare to either of these machines but I am very impressed with what this thing has pulled me up. To place this in perspective. There is a rather large mountain called Casa Grande Mountain with very steep trails leading to the top. Maybe RaptorAz knows of it? This buggy halls butt to the top often spinning its wheels.
I still have questions for you guys though. I have decided to forgoe my motorcycle and buy another Kart within the next 6 months or so. If it wasn't for the price I would go with the Kasea Explorer with the Kymco 250. I can get the Kasea for 3400+shipping. However, there are a bunch of 250's coming out but are any of them as powerful as the Explorer? When I drove the explorer, the top speed and power was damn good. Not quite the bang for the buck of a KPX though. It was head and shoulders above the KPX but I could buy 2 KPX's for the price of on
