"Orion" is a representative of the Russian brand Stels
Mopeds of the Orion family are becoming increasingly popular motor vehicles in our country. They are assembled at the enterprises of the Russian holding Velomotors under the Stels brand. "Orion" is a moped made on the basis of Chinese components, but some of its key elements were manufactured at Stels enterprises in Russia. At the Zhukovsky Motorcycle Plant they make a frame and some external elements for these light motorcycles. The company strives to replace imported parts, and every year the share of Russian-made parts and mechanisms in the design of these mopeds increases.
Mopeds, photos of the assembly line of which are presented in the article, undergo the final stage of quality control.
Where were the Orion moped models developed?
The basic designs of the Orion family of models, as well as their engines, were developed by the Japanese company Honda. Mopeds made in China using these Japanese technologies have long been known on the Russian market and enjoy deserved popularity. The similarity of the Stels “Orion” models with the well-known Chinese analogues of the “Alpha” and “Delta” types is no coincidence, and there are no fundamental differences between them, however, the Russian company strives to expand the Chinese model range through its own development of new configurations, affecting both the chassis and design elements. "Orion" is a moped that should have the widest range of applications on Russian roads. The Japanese prototype contained such successful technical solutions that made it possible to create models of light, universal-purpose motorcycles based on them.
Orion 125 review
The Chinese have learned to make good equipment, so this engine technology and its circuits were borrowed from the Japanese brand Honda. Also, in appearance and some characteristics, you can compare the moped with other well-known models - Alpha and Delta. But Velomotors is trying to do everything to make its moped more unique, developing a new design and improved driving performance. With this approach, we can safely say that the Orion brand has a good future.
We also recommend looking at reviews of other excellent motorcycles - the Stels Delta 200 and Stels Flame 200 models.
The appearance of the moped is slightly different from its competitors Alpha and Delta; the manufacturer has made more sporty shapes, and the seat, according to reviews from the owners, is quite comfortable and long. At the front you can see a telescopic fork with rubber pads, which also improves the appearance of the moped.
The instrument panel is informative, there is a tachometer, speedometer, and there is an option on the panel to view the gear shift. You can also notice the low and high beam indicator and flashing turn signal arrows. When the turn is turned on, a sound alert occurs. Some owners complain about the frame, allegedly it has poor welding, and after purchase it is also advisable to check the quality of the chain. Some owners also check the fastening of the nuts, and if poor quality is detected, it is best to replace the bolts and nuts with more reliable ones.
"Orion" - a moped with high technical characteristics
The technical characteristics of the Orion family of motor vehicles are similar to similar Chinese models, mainly due to the same engines and most chassis elements. The engine design was developed in Japan more than half a century ago, and the first Japanese scooters with this type of engine were called Honda Cub.
The engines on the Orions are clones of the Japanese prototype, manufactured in China, and can have various piston configuration options - from 50 to 120 cc. see. General technical characteristics for engines installed on all such models are the presence of one cylinder, four-stroke cycle, air cooling, circular gear shift, four-speed transmission, identical timing and gearbox design.
Depending on engine size, power can vary from 3.5 to 7.5 liters. With.
The maximum speed that the Orion 125 A is capable of can exceed 100 km/h due to the powerful 120 cc engine option. see. The design of the engines makes it easy to change their volume and power by replacing the piston group. "Orions" have approximately the same dimensions and weight from 81 to 87 kg.
"Orion" is a moped for comfortable riding. Specifications, reviews, prices, photos
Where are Orion mopeds made and who developed them? What are their specifications and models? What is their cost and how do they differ from their Chinese counterparts? For what purposes is this type of technology intended and how do the Orion models differ from each other? How do the owners speak about these mopeds and what, in their opinion, most often fails in them? The answers to all these questions are in this article.
"Orion" is a representative of the Russian brand Stels
Mopeds of the Orion family are becoming increasingly popular motor vehicles in our country. They are assembled at the enterprises of the Russian holding Velomotors under the Stels brand. “Orion” is a moped made on the basis of Chinese components, but some of its key elements were manufactured at Stels factories in Russia.
At the Zhukovsky Motorcycle Plant they make a frame and some external elements for these light motorcycles. The company strives to replace imported parts, and every year the share of Russian-made parts and mechanisms in the design of these mopeds increases.
Mopeds, photos of the assembly line of which are presented in the article, undergo the final stage of quality control.
Where were the Orion moped models developed?
The basic designs of the Orion family of models, as well as their engines, were developed by the Japanese company Honda. Mopeds made in China using these Japanese technologies have long been known on the Russian market and enjoy deserved popularity. The similarity of the Stels “Orion” models with the well-known Chinese analogues of the “Alpha” and “Delta” types is no coincidence, and there are no fundamental differences between them, however, the Russian company strives to expand the Chinese model range through its own development of new configurations, affecting both the chassis and design elements. "Orion" is a moped that should have the widest range of applications on Russian roads. The Japanese prototype contained such successful technical solutions that made it possible to create models of light, universal-purpose motorcycles based on them.
"Orion" - a moped with high technical characteristics
The technical characteristics of the Orion family of motor vehicles are similar to similar Chinese models, mainly due to the same engines and most chassis elements. The engine design was developed in Japan more than half a century ago, and the first Japanese scooters with this type of engine were called Honda Cub.
The engines on the Orions are clones of the Japanese prototype, manufactured in China, and can have various piston configuration options - from 50 to 120 cc. see. General technical characteristics for engines installed on all such models are the presence of one cylinder, four-stroke cycle, air cooling, circular gear shift, four-speed transmission, identical timing and gearbox design.
Depending on engine size, power can vary from 3.5 to 7.5 liters. With.
The maximum speed that the Orion 125 A is capable of can exceed 100 km/h due to the powerful 120 cc engine option. see. The design of the engines makes it easy to change their volume and power by replacing the piston group. "Orions" have approximately the same dimensions and weight from 81 to 87 kg.
Moped "Orion" with a rack on the gas tank
There are two main variations in the Orion family of models, differing in frame shape and gas tank configuration. Models with a universal frame, which have a metal luggage basket above the gas tank, belong to type “A” and are equipped with engines from 50 to 100 cc. cm.
This is a very popular moped - “Orion”, its price ranges from 17 to 23 thousand rubles. Thanks to its high cross-country ability and convenient layout of the trunk on the frame, this model is especially loved by Russian buyers from rural areas. The Orion 50 (72) A moped can have wheels with both alloy wheels and spokes. The engine installed on this model is very easy to modify by replacing the piston group with a more powerful version. This can be done with your own hands, since the design of the engine is very simple.
The Orion 100 A with an engine capacity of 99 cc has a slightly longer base and seat shape. cm. Depending on the design of the wheel - with discs or spokes - the price for this moped ranges from 20 to 21.7 thousand rubles. These models have a relatively small gas tank of 3 liters.
Models with a large gas tank and case
Models with six- and eight-liter gas tanks and a trunk case are equipped with engines ranging from 50 to 120 cc. see and belong to type “B”. The Orion moped, a photo of which can be seen below, has a layout that differs from type “A”.
A very important difference between types “A” and “B” is the different position of the hands when landing. Type A models have a higher steering wheel and are easier to control. Model “B” provides a position for the motorcyclist that helps reduce drag.
The Orion 125 V moped differs from the Orion 50 V (72) only in its greater weight and 120 cc motor power. The noticeable difference in the power of the Orion engines creates very large differences in their dynamic characteristics. "Orion" 110 is a moped, which, according to the traffic rules of the Russian Federation, should be considered a motorcycle. It is the same "B" variety with a large gas tank and rear case, with a corresponding 110 cc engine. cm. The price for model “B” ranges from 21 to 27 thousand rubles.
There are luxury options in the Orion family. "Orion" Lux is equipped with an alarm system and a more powerful 120 cc engine. see. Structurally, this option belongs to type “B”. Price – from 31 thousand rubles. The second luxury option, the Orion City moped, has approximately the same price. This model has beautiful sporty plastic contours, a muffler with a sloping rear part, a powerful engine and an alarm system. This model also belongs to type "B". The cheapest option from subgroup “B” is the Orion 50 moped.
Differences from Chinese counterparts
Both types of Orions (types “A” and “B”) are very similar to their Chinese counterparts - mopeds of the “Delta” and “Alpha” types. The chassis, engines, both sprockets, chain, brake drums and many other important structural elements are the same. But still, the Russian assembly of the Stels brand has a number of important differences. And one of them is higher quality fasteners. Mopeds assembled in China require mandatory tightening of all elements without exception before use.
The fasteners used in Orions are more durable in material and are also stretched to a higher quality at the factory. Models of both types “A” and “B” have practically no design differences as standard from their Chinese counterparts. But the Orion 100A has a more comfortable seat, a slightly longer base and stronger wings. During driving, the front fenders on models 50 (72) A and B, made of thin stamped iron, are very often destroyed by vibration. Orions have a more durable and comfortable frame and rear wheel pendulum, which has a positive effect on the reliability of fixing the rear wheel tensioners, as well as on the convenience of replacing the air filter. One of the positive consequences of using higher-quality metal in the manufacture of the frame in Orions is the absence of destruction of the engine mounting points, while in Chinese analogues these components are susceptible to destruction when operating the version with 110 - 120 cc engines. cm.
Functional differences in the Orion moped family
"Orion" is a universal-purpose moped. Thanks to various engine options, which differ quite significantly in terms of energy output, these motorcycles can have speed characteristics comparable to light motorcycles. Thanks to their low weight and large wheels, these lightweight motorcycles move well over rough terrain and on dirt roads. In urban conditions, when it is necessary to maneuver among traffic jams, Orions are comparable in handling to ordinary bicycles. But differences in the power of power plants impose certain limitations. Models with 50 cc engines cm (49 cc according to documents) are more convenient for use in rural areas when driving on a dirt road at low speed. They are too slow for the city and highway, although they have some advantages in fuel economy and in the absence of the need to have a license with a category that allows driving motorcycles. According to traffic rules, “Orions” with such engines are real mopeds. All other versions of the Orions should be considered light motorcycles, which require the appropriate license to operate. The most powerful Orions, capable of accelerating to hundreds of km/h, are the most versatile options, which are suitable for driving around the city and highway, as well as on dirt roads and rough terrain.
The most optimal model of the Orion moped
If low-speed models with engines up to 50 cc. cm are suitable only for leisurely trips outside the city, then for models with engines from 110 cc. see there are also several significant shortcomings. Firstly, they consume more fuel. Secondly, the lightweight frame design and rather weak chassis elements, especially the chain and sprockets, when the moped is equipped with 110 cc engines. see and above have a much greater degree of wear and are not designed for such loads that arise with a motor power of 6-7 liters. With. Also, such engines sharply increase vibration loads, which leads to rapid wear of many important components and parts not directly related to the chassis. The timing belt of more powerful engines installed on Orions requires more frequent checking and replacement of rollers and chains. Thirdly, engines from 110 hp. With. require a motorcycle license and serious driving skills. The optimal version of the Orion moped model, which will be convenient and safe for most lovers of this type of transport, is the medium version with a motor power of 5.7 liters. With.
Reviews from owners of Orion mopeds
Reliable and unpretentious equipment produced under the Stels trademark has every reason to be loved and recognized by customers. Orions are more reliable than their Chinese counterparts. If you study the reviews of the owners of this type of equipment, the overwhelming majority speak for the clear advantages of the Orions over the Chinese Alphas and Deltas. Positive reviews primarily concern a stronger and more reliable frame. This element is manufactured in Russia at Stels factories. When comparing Stels and their Chinese counterparts, they also note on the positive side the rear shock absorbers and fewer breakdowns due to weak fasteners. Many note the consistency of the quality and price of Orion mopeds, the availability of spare parts, maintainability and the ability to operate in adverse off-road conditions. Experienced moped owners note the importance of following all break-in rules, the need to monitor the condition of the fasteners and correctly adjust the operation of the clutch, fuel supply, and drive chain tension. The mopeds, photos of which are presented below, have traveled more than 20 thousand km.
Breakdowns that owners of Orion mopeds complain about in reviews
The most common faults are:
- Carburetor adjustment failure.
- Sprocket wear and drive chain stretch.
- Failure of the turn signal switching relay.
Serious malfunctions that may occur due to improper operation and lack of control over the operation of the moped mechanisms: - Loss of compression due to improper valve adjustment, valve burnout.
- Timing chain rupture due to wear of its tension system.
- Clutch failure due to improper adjustment and cable stretching.
- Failure of chain tensioners, as well as deformation of tensioner fixing points due to wear of the sprockets and the chain itself.
Moped "Orion" with a rack on the gas tank
There are two main variations in the Orion family of models, differing in frame shape and gas tank configuration. Models with a universal frame, which have a metal luggage basket above the gas tank, belong to type “A” and are equipped with engines from 50 to 100 cc. cm.
This is a very popular moped - “Orion”, its price ranges from 17 to 23 thousand rubles. Thanks to its high cross-country ability and convenient layout of the trunk on the frame, this model is especially loved by Russian buyers from rural areas. The Orion 50 (72) A moped can have wheels with both alloy wheels and spokes. The engine installed on this model is very easy to modify by replacing the piston group with a more powerful version. This can be done with your own hands, since the design of the engine is very simple.
The Orion 100 A with an engine capacity of 99 cc has a slightly longer base and seat shape. cm. Depending on the design of the wheel - with discs or spokes - the price for this moped ranges from 20 to 21.7 thousand rubles. These models have a relatively small gas tank of 3 liters.
Engine
The big disadvantage at the moment is the requirement for a driver’s license, because despite the positioning of the vehicle as a “moped”, today it requires a driver’s license of category A. The big plus of this moped is an excellent engine, which, with Chinese quality, has good acceleration and quality. Spare parts for the Orion moped are inexpensive, so even an inexperienced owner can make simple repairs.
The maximum speed indicated in the specifications can be increased by driving independently; some owners note that it can accelerate to 110 km/h. Even despite driving uphill and on uneven roads, the moped does not slow down and does not lose power. Unlike other weaker Chinese mopeds, this model has an excellent kick starter that does not break and starts in the absence of a battery.
Main disadvantages
Unfortunately, Chinese quality is felt quite well even despite the Russian assembly. Many owners notice that the side bars are too weak, the chain generally leaves much to be desired, so if possible, it needs to be replaced. The steering stop and star are also considered to be of poor quality. When driving with luggage in the box, the moped rattles.
Some people note weak headlights, both front and rear. As for technical parameters, the Orion 125 cc often needs idle and clutch adjustment. You can also see the article Adjusting the clutch on Alpha. And to round off the disadvantages of the Orion 125 motorcycle, we can highlight the too thin wheels, which make riding on uneven surfaces uncomfortable.
But no matter how many shortcomings the motorcycle has, they are all covered by one big plus - low cost. For 2021, the price of the new Orion 125 moped is about 45,000 rubles, although before the crisis the price of a moped was only 30 thousand rubles. Accordingly, an excellent option would be to buy used. u. Orion, which in more or less normal condition has a price from 17 to 24,000 rubles.
Models with a large gas tank and case
Models with six- and eight-liter gas tanks and a trunk case are equipped with engines ranging from 50 to 120 cc. see and belong to type “B”. The Orion moped, a photo of which can be seen below, has a layout that differs from type “A”.
A very important difference between types “A” and “B” is the different position of the hands when landing. Type A models have a higher steering wheel and are easier to control. Model “B” provides a position for the motorcyclist that helps reduce drag.
The Orion 125 V moped differs from the Orion 50 V (72) only in its greater weight and 120 cc motor power. The noticeable difference in the power of the Orion engines creates very large differences in their dynamic characteristics. "Orion" 110 is a moped, which, according to the traffic rules of the Russian Federation, should be considered a motorcycle. It is the same "B" variety with a large gas tank and rear case, with a corresponding 110 cc engine. cm. The price for model “B” ranges from 21 to 27 thousand rubles.
There are luxury options in the Orion family. "Orion" Lux is equipped with an alarm system and a more powerful 120 cc engine. see. Structurally, this option belongs to type “B”. Price – from 31 thousand rubles. The second luxury option, the Orion City moped, has approximately the same price. This model has beautiful sporty plastic contours, a muffler with a sloping rear part, a powerful engine and an alarm system. This model also belongs to type "B". The cheapest option from subgroup “B” is the Orion 50 moped.
Orion 125 characteristics
At the moment, several versions of the Orion moped are produced in Russia; 125 cubic meters is considered the maximum mark for it. There are also mopeds with a cubic capacity of 50, 75 and 100 cm3. In other characteristics, all modifications do not differ, so the data for all Orions is the same. The model under consideration received 1 cylinder, operation in 4-stroke mode, power of 7.05 horsepower and air cooling. These are quite standard characteristics that made it possible to achieve a low price for the moped.
The engine starts using standard methods - electric or kick starter. The circular gearbox has 5 speeds, and the 125 cc engine allows you to develop a maximum of 90 km/h, which is quite good for such a moped. With a large volume, Orion received a good load that can support a driver and passenger with a total weight of up to 200 kg. The weight of the motorcycle without load is 90 kg.
It is worth noting that there is also another modification of the Orion 125 cc moped, which has the letter “B” in the name. This version has two differences - a different design and a power of 4.8/6.3 kW (modification “A” has 4.8/3.5 kW).
Differences from Chinese counterparts
Both types of Orions (types “A” and “B”) are very similar to their Chinese counterparts - mopeds of the “Delta” and “Alpha” types. The chassis, engines, both sprockets, chain, brake drums and many other important structural elements are the same. But still, the Russian assembly of the Stels brand has a number of important differences. And one of them is higher quality fasteners. Mopeds assembled in China require mandatory tightening of all elements without exception before use.
The fasteners used in Orions are more durable in material and are also stretched to a higher quality at the factory. Models of both types “A” and “B” have practically no design differences as standard from their Chinese counterparts. But the Orion 100A has a more comfortable seat, a slightly longer base and stronger wings. During driving, the front fenders on models 50 (72) A and B, made of thin stamped iron, are very often destroyed by vibration. Orions have a more durable and comfortable frame and rear wheel pendulum, which has a positive effect on the reliability of fixing the rear wheel tensioners, as well as on the convenience of replacing the air filter. One of the positive consequences of using higher-quality metal in the manufacture of the frame in Orions is the absence of destruction of the engine mounting points, while in Chinese analogues these components are susceptible to destruction when operating the version with 110 - 120 cc engines. cm.
Functional differences in the Orion moped family
"Orion" is a universal-purpose moped. Thanks to various engine options, which differ quite significantly in terms of energy output, these motorcycles can have speed characteristics comparable to light motorcycles. Thanks to their low weight and large wheels, these lightweight motorcycles move well over rough terrain and on dirt roads. In urban conditions, when it is necessary to maneuver among traffic jams, Orions are comparable in handling to ordinary bicycles. But differences in the power of power plants impose certain limitations. Models with 50 cc engines cm (49 cc according to documents) are more convenient for use in rural areas when driving on a dirt road at low speed. They are too slow for the city and highway, although they have some advantages in fuel economy and in the absence of the need to have a license with a category that allows driving motorcycles. According to traffic rules, “Orions” with such engines are real mopeds. All other versions of the Orions should be considered light motorcycles, which require the appropriate license to operate. The most powerful Orions, capable of accelerating to hundreds of km/h, are the most versatile options, which are suitable for driving around the city and highway, as well as on dirt roads and rough terrain.
Motorcycle Arion 50 (2012): technical characteristics, photos, videos
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