Creative factory motorcycle tandem of the Russian plant named after V.A. Degtyarev and Chinese industry gave their favorable results for bikers. Once again the products of these two companies please with worthy new motorcycle products. Such two-wheeled masterpieces include the ZiD Lifan LF250 gy-5 motorcycle model, which belongs to the enduro .
The appearance of motorized vehicles keeps up with the times, demonstrating similarities with their Japanese-Chinese relatives, and the capabilities allow you to easily travel not only around city highways, but also around village roads. Its practical dimensions are easy to use, and its light weight allows it to show good dynamics.
Let's take a look inside
The inside of the Lifan LF 250 gy 5 motorcycle is as pleasant as the outside. The single-cylinder engine is designed for four strokes and has a compression ratio of 9.0. Its capacity is close to 200 cubic centimeters, and its power is slightly short of 17 horsepower , which this mini-bike gains at 8000 rpm.
The engine has a carburetor, capacitor ignition of the “CDI” type and air cooling. The engine shows maximum torque at 6500 rpm and accelerates to 100 kilometers per hour. With a democratic movement of sixty kilometers per hour, gasoline is consumed quite economically, not exceeding 2.3 liters for every hundred kilometers.
The transmission has a manual gearbox and five-speed disc clutches that feel great in a bath of oil. The drive wheel receives the necessary traction through a chain drive.
Lifan LF 250 has a classic suspension. The disc brake system is equipped with a hydraulic drive. The wheels are of different sizes, with a difference of three inches. The bike requires the presence of a second rider and does not tolerate serious overloads. If the weight crosses the 150-kilogram threshold , this becomes critical for a motorcycle car.
Specifications
The Lifan Chopper motorcycle weighs 152 kg - an almost ideal weight for this class of equipment; due to this weight, the bike behaves confidently and steadily on the road. As already mentioned, the chopper is equipped with a gasoline engine with two cylinders, which is cooled by a flow of oncoming air. The working volume of the power unit is 248.9 cc. The cubic capacity is quite enough for driving at a constant speed of 100 km/h without long stops. The maximum speed of the Lifan 250 chopper is 115 km/h. I would like to note that the maximum speed indicator is quite decent, taking into account the design features of the “Chinese”, namely: an elongated steering wheel and front fork.
It is also worth saying that the power of 17 “horses” is quite enough for two people to ride at the same time. The engine begins to operate after being exposed to the electronic starting system. The ignition is set to TCI (transistor) type. All generated traction from the engine is transmitted to the rear wheel through an iron chain. The gearbox is manual, 5-speed. The engineers’ attempts to achieve maximum and minimum fuel consumption were crowned with success; Lifan “eats” 2.6-3 l/100 km.
Test drive LifanLF250-19
For a long time, it was customary to talk about Chinese technology either badly or not at all... I mean real words, and not insipidly flat reviews in various other publications or sugary advertising texts bordering on complete idiocy on the websites of dealers and importers.
For a long time, suppliers of Chinese equipment did not hesitate, to put it mildly, to mislead the buyer... For example, with the light hand of dishonest sellers, outright “China” suddenly received a more “noble” origin - from Germany, England or even the USA.
For a long time, motorcycles were divided into normal and Chinese. Moreover, even mentioning the latter was considered bad manners in the motorcycle community, and even riding them... Owners of Japanese bikes from ancient vintages looked at the “Chinese cyclists” condescendingly and with a hint of pity: “What a person has to go through for the love of motorcycles...”. But everything is gradually changing...
I met the Lifan LF250-19 (Alfamoto Dakota) at the test site of the Lifan plant in Chongqing, during a business trip to the Middle Kingdom. Moreover, I did not get an “exhibition” copy licked to every bolt, but a completely “combat” bike, on which the factory test pilots ran laps on a special track. During its short life, the motorcycle had already acquired several “scars” and looked like a notorious bandit... But it really does look like... When the creators of the motorcycle worked on the design and layout, they were clearly inspired by the popular Honda VTR250 and, to some extent, Suzuki Bandit 250.
The bike was pleasing to the eye with a powerful tubular birdcage frame, a thick front fork and a laconic classic design in the style of the 90s. The delights adored by the Chinese, such as a bunch of plastic and metal shiny overlays that cause a gag reflex among motorcycle journalists around the world, were completely absent here. And it was amazing and wonderful!
Further inspection showed that Lifan has finally implemented a fuel injection system on small-capacity engines, and this two-cylinder V-shaped “air vent” LF250-19 has an injector. This motor itself is no longer new and has already been in the chassis of a dozen motorized units. It gained fame and popularity due to its reliability, unpretentiousness to the quality of gasoline and oil, as well as quite decent power characteristics. For example, he is capable of accelerating a light motorcycle to 140 km/h, powered by simple “92” gasoline. Well, equipped with a fuel injection system, it began to delight fans with a more accurate throttle response and a reduced fuel appetite. The only negative is air cooling and the impossibility of installing an oil cooler without significant modifications.
But still, the engine is not the main feature of the LF250-19. It's no secret that a sportbike from the 90s will be inferior on the "ring" to a modern sportsbike with the same engine power. The difference in chassis layout, weight and weight distribution, aerodynamics, frame rigidity and suspension calibrations make the power characteristics of the engine secondary. For the first time I looked at the chassis of Chinese motorcycles in a new way during the test of the Megelli 250 R (MD No. 76). That bike had a number of shortcomings in terms of suspension settings and gave the impression of a “raw” model, which could use another year of “living” on the test site before immigrating to motorcycle showrooms. The second session of rethinking the concepts of Chinese motorcycle technology took place during a test drive of Kayo pit bikes (MD No. 81-82). They also had shortcomings regarding the suspension, but this did not stop them from driving where not every ATV rider would go, as well as speeding along narrow and winding forest paths at a hard-enduro pace.
As for the LF250-19, the Chinese, apparently, have finally managed to weave the engine, frame, suspension and brakes into a single organic connection, when each of these components does not live its own separate life, but works, as they say, “in unison” . If you try to characterize this bike in two words, then “harmony” and “completeness” would be the best fit. Acceleration dynamics correspond to braking dynamics, suspension calibrations correspond to weight distribution and weight, the “seat triangle” corresponds to the dimensions of an average European rider... The list can be continued, but all the most important things are already reflected in those two words. Perhaps the Honda VTR250 genes are dominant in this bike. This is not surprising, since Lifan works closely with Honda and has both the opportunity and the right to use Japanese designs.
Returning to the logical beginning of the test drive, I would like to note that during the “ritual walkthrough” of the motorcycle, a certain wariness reigned in my soul. It happens like this: everything looks fine, but the “pepelats” drives like a “homemade” one, assembled in a week from a ZAZ engine, old water pipes and wheels from a garden wheelbarrow. But my fears were not confirmed... The injection engine started from the first revolution of the starter and began to warm up without any unnecessary noise.
Having admired the trembling tachometer needle and the glare of the spring Chinese sun on the polished tank, I slam the helmet visor and... go, go! The 250 cc 2-cylinder “air blower” vigorously accelerates the 145 kg motorcycle to... Actually, at this point I would like to talk about the mind-blowing speeds and my iron balls... that is, the iron character that allowed me to accelerate the LF250-19 to those the highest speeds, but... the length of the straights in the internal plant areas was only enough to see “110” on the speedometer. The temptation to drive onto public roads, in turn, was accompanied by the risk of getting run over by someone in chaotic traffic or meeting the police and finding out that your international driving license does not apply in China. This would be sad and would put an end to the whole further business trip, so I didn’t take the risk...
Based on the situation, I could compete in speed only with trucks delivering components to factory buildings, from the windows of which dumbfounded Chinese looked at me. Having made sure that I was the coolest rider “in the village,” I came up with the idea of racing on a special test track at the Lifan plant. It looked like a very elongated oval and consisted of three types of surface: asphalt, wet asphalt, paving stones and gravel, and a “washboard” in the form of concrete ribs the height of a cigarette pack.
By that time, I had already become accustomed to the ergonomics and fit of the LF250-19, which corresponds to the dimensions of the average European “carcass,” therefore, difficult moments came in the life of this motorcycle.
Clicking through the gears, I accelerate along a straight line free of artificial obstacles. While driving, the gearbox operates quietly and accurately, although when standing still, it was difficult for me to look for “neutral.” The dynamics of acceleration (which did not leave any chance for factory trucks) will be quite sufficient on city roads. Despite the fact that only 19 “horses” are declared in the engine, in the auto world this bike will not have many opponents who will be able to overtake it at the start.
Thanks to the fuel injection system, throttle response is very precise. Vibrations? They exist, but their frequency and amplitude remain beyond the pilot’s attention while driving. In general, this engine complements the LF250-19 chassis well, although I will not hide that the Chinese already have 250 cc liquid-cooled engines with a power of about 25 hp. would have suited this bike much better due to its aggressive design.
The straight line of the test track ends, the speedometer shows the number “95”... A little more for an even number... 97... 100! Damn, an absolutely “plug-in” 180-degree turn is approaching at an alarming rate! I press on the rear brake until the motorcycle squats slightly and, at the same time, with increasing force, I clamp the front brake... The heated rubber clings to the smooth, highly abrasive asphalt, the fork folds almost to the full length of its stroke, and the rear tire begins to squeak, touching the tops of the bumps and... The motorcycle stops 5 meters from the entrance to a narrow turn. Why did I slow down so much? If we evaluate the operation of the system not as a whole, but strictly differentiated, then we would like to have greater performance of the front brake, although a beginner may not see the need for this.
The suspension and frame left an extremely pleasant impression. Thick fork stays and a rigid tubular spine design make steering the bike very precise. The handling itself can be described as medium-sharp. The bike dives into corners with gusto, but is also stable at speeds of around 100 km/h. At the beginning of the test drive, I was wary of the flimsy-looking steel pendulum made of a rectangular profile, but my fears were in vain. While driving, there was no evidence of insufficient rigidity from the rear wheel.
The stock calibrations of the fork and rear monoshock were perfect for my weight and riding conditions. On the “washboard” the suspension did not pierce, and during braking, acceleration and cornering the wheels maintained good contact with the asphalt.
Of course, within the framework of a short test drive it is impossible to evaluate such parameters as the reliability of a motorcycle, comfort in long-distance driving, or fuel consumption in different modes. But for some reason I would like to think that after entering the Ukrainian market under the name Alfamoto Dakota, the Lifan LF250-19 will not lose face.
Text: Sergey Kuznetsov
Photo: provided by the author
Design features
The Lifan Chopper motorcycle is an excellent vehicle for travel, which is in great demand due to its reliability. The bike is purposefully designed for dynamic driving around the city, but at the same time it can plow on dirt roads. Ground clearance - 1140 mm eliminates contact with small stones lying on the road. That is, small trips are fully possible. The fairly high and comfortable saddle of the Lifan 250 chopper allows you to clearly view natural beauty or the concrete “jungle”. The braking system consists of a rear drum mechanism and a front disc with a two-piston floating caliper. It is characterized by a quick and high-quality effect - an important criterion, especially relevant in emergency situations.
The main power unit of the bike is unpretentious in fuel, it “feeds” perfectly on both 95 and 93 gasoline. The installed exhaust pipes produce a confident roar that is a real pleasure to the ears. The standard information panel competently accommodates all the necessary devices. In the dark, it is perfectly illuminated by the backlight. There is a brake light at the rear, which is clearly visible to vehicles moving behind. The placement of side mirrors is designed in such a way that the driver has the opportunity to control the situation behind him. The suspension is based on a front telescopic fork and two spring shock absorbers located at the rear. Their degree of hardness is adjusted manually. It is necessary to highlight the following pleasant features of the model:
The motorcycle has a gasoline tank with a capacity of 14 liters. That is, you don’t have to worry about frequent refueling.
Standard 18-inch wheels ensure safe driving on the road in rain and snow. Deep holes, hillocks and stones on the road surface are not scary for Lifan.
Taking into account all the technical characteristics, the attractive and dynamic appearance of the motorcycle, we can say with confidence that the LIFAN LF250B is a win-win option that gives freedom of movement and an influx of adrenaline in the blood. For lovers of high speeds, there is a 400 cc Chinese motorcycle on sale. The main difference between the models is the engine displacement. Buy Lifan 400 cc. possible for 159 thousand rubles.
Good afternoon, gentlemen, motorcyclists. The season is closed, at the moment almost everyone (except for the scoundrels-endurists with evil studded tires =) is bored and writes about travel over the past season, sharing their experiences. Well, I’ll also try myself as a scribbler, maybe my experience will be useful to someone. I will try to tell you about the purchase, about the experience of using the Chinese mini-cruiser, my personal opinion about this particular model, about the cost of maintenance, about my accident, repairs and its cost in several parts.
About three years ago, I decided to buy a motorcycle as the main means of transportation in the spring-summer-autumn period, because traffic jams on the roads really bothered me. I was considering small-capacity (250-400cc) equipment up to 80,000 rubles (the money was a complete mess due to the purchase and repairs in two apartments) and, accordingly, the choice was minimal. For the city I decided to take a cruiser. After reading the internet, I realized that I couldn’t find Japanese or other “normal” equipment in adequate condition, so I was looking for Chinese ones, either new or with low mileage... Again, I had already read a lot of reviews for the Chinese motorcycle industry and made a conclusion for myself - in many cases, it doesn’t even make sense to buy a new motorcycle, because it’s a low-quality, broken rattle. But in some cases, there is still a light visible at the end of the impenetrable tunnel of Chinese junk - one of these cases, judging by numerous reviews and articles on the Internet, was the Lifan 250 b and Lifan 400 (scabies were not found in any ad at the time of my purchase). Having registered on several forums and in a thematic group on VK, I finally came to the following conclusions:
— This motorcycle is identical to the Yamaha XV250 Virago, excluding minor differences in decorative details. — The engines are identical (except possibly for the material from which the parts are made) — The motorcycle is exclusively urban — maximum speed is 110-120 km/h, cruiser is around 90 km/h. — Suitable for short riders like me (1.77-1.78), because large bikers feel on it like a bear on a bicycle. — There are no problems with the availability of parts and body kit. The only point is that it is difficult to find in Russia, although the main components and assemblies are there. The main supplier is naturally Chinese. Chinese trading platforms are chock-full of parts for the engine, various small parts and a bunch of different little things for the body kit (tanks, direct flows, linings and even entire kits for turning it into a “beaver”). Based on this, you should understand that in the event of serious breakdowns, you will have to wait around a month for parts. — Consumption is around 3 liters, which is very pleasing. — The seating position is comfortable, it handles great, and handles great in traffic jams due to its small size.
Is it decided?
So let's take it. This is how I got it from the previous owner, whom I met in a thematic group on VK.
In fact, this motorcycle became my first, really MY motorcycle. In my youth, at the age of 14, a friend and I bought a Jupiter 4 together, having worked for a month as helpers at a construction site... At that time, it seemed to me just a magnificent device, although the ignition was knocked out and it was “still suitable for driving.” Looking back, I’m simply amazed at what fools we were: we drove through the whole summer not once, NEVER putting oil in the gasoline... What’s most interesting is that the engine caught a wedge once when we were racing without helmets, sitting three of us along a three-lane avenue. At that moment, I may not have thrown out the bricks yet, but obviously at least the paving stones, because we began to be dragged along the road from side to side and it was only by miracle that we did not fly under the Kamaz coming from behind. We didn’t ride anymore that day, we just thoroughly washed our trousers, comprehending what had happened. In short, having skated through the summer and safely put a quite decent motorcycle “on our knees” (shkolota what to take), we sold it to the local bruiser Valera, who was always wandering around his garage, collecting carnations and pieces of iron scattered in abundance throughout the garage cooperative. So I happily lived to be 27 years old, forgetting about motorcycles, only looking at the trail of passing bikes and envying these cheerful guys. So let's get back to Lifan... I bought it from Igor (hello to Nizhny Novgorod), after he sent me photos of his documents and documents for the motorcycle via Tynet. At that time, I had been communicating with him for about a month and knew another guy from this motorcycle group in VK, who lived in a city neighboring him. This man went to Igor and confirmed that the motorcycle was indeed in good condition and you could safely take it. At that time, the motorcycle was 2 years old, but Igor bought it a year later, that is, they used the motorcycle for one full season. In fact, he skated one full season on it, covering about 9,000-10,000 kilometers. I simply transferred the money to his card, the entire amount at once. I’ll make a reservation that Igor was already a grown man and after talking with him, I created the impression of an open and honest person, and considering that another person communicated with him personally, saw the motorcycle and all the documents, I was no longer afraid to pay off the entire amount at once. For the motorcycle I paid 60,000 rubles + shipping by a transport company in the amount of 7,000 (a new one in our city cost 124,000). The motorcycle went from Nizhny Novgorod to Stavropol (about 1400 km) and covered this route in about a week and a half. In fact, I bought a motorcycle blindly O_o On October 6, 2015, I went to receive my main gift (by strange coincidence, the receipt fell on my birthday), while in a hell of a jitters. “I bought myself a motorcycle, I bought myself a motorcycle, this is simply not possible, I bought myself a motorcycle!!!” - this was spinning in circles in my head. And, I would like to separately note that I did not inform any of my relatives about the purchase, because I was sure that I would have to call an ambulance for them... The father, okay, would understand, but the mother would definitely faint =) And it also “brightened up” the general It’s a jitters that I don’t have category “A”. At that time, I had open categories “B”, “C”, “D”, but for some reason I did not open the motorcycle category, although there was an opportunity to get it on the ball during the period of training for the bus. So I arrived at the transport company, paid for the transportation and left to receive it. They brought a healthy box to the site and began to tear it apart. I jumped around like a stung macaque, rattling around the workers: “Careful, dammit, don’t drop this piece of wood, don’t hit it, don’t scratch it.” The guys knew their business by heart and the autopsy went without any mistakes. And so: Hallelujah, I roll MY bike out of the pallet, fasten the battery, check the documents, I took a liter bottle of gasoline with me, start the motorcycle... and I don’t know what to do =) I haven’t even driven a bicycle for about 10 years... After hanging around on the territory of the shopping mall for about ten minutes, I tried to get under way - my hands seemed to remember everything, my legs too. I vaguely remember how I got to work... I was driving in trousers, a jacket and some kind of ridiculous helmet, reminiscent of SWAT and apparently looked wildly ridiculous. It was scary and at the same time uncontrollably fun - “I have a motorcycle!!! Yes-ah”... After receiving the transport, I gathered my friends in my garage (I remind you that no one knew about my purchase), pulled the tarpaulin off the motorcycle standing in the center of the garage... and a wild frenzy began in the darkness of the revelry. The next day I tightened the chain, lubricated it, changed the filter and oil, and went around the city in a ridiculous SWAT helmet. A week after I received my motorcycle, a new helmet arrived and I rode without a license until the end of the season. The season ended late, somewhere in November, no incidents happened to me - I drove around the city and to the nearest populated areas, I was in no hurry, I didn’t even drive more than 80 km/h, because I was tired from inexperience and fear in in the first few weeks, soak your little horse. In the following parts there will be more detail about the features of operation and the unpleasant accident that happened to me. Have an interesting winter everyone
Appearance and Design
It is worth immediately noting that this iron horse is an exact copy of the well-known and beloved Yamaha brand, namely their Yamaha Virago motorcycle. The similarities are simply amazing. Externally, the motorcycle resembles its well-known twin brother. Same details, same color, chrome plating. The motorcycles are identical, from the rear wheel to such little details as the turn indicators. Even the pattern on the main optics is the same. But still there is a difference. On Lifan it is easier to select spare parts for modernization or replacement. It is more practical and not whimsical. Motorcycles also differ in their power units, namely their power and fuel consumption. There are many parts that are not chrome plated like the Virago but instead are plated with a nickel alloy. Although it is not so easy to distinguish.
