Regal Raptor DD250G-2N (2011)

[dewsnap]

I've clocked over 400km's on the Regal-Raptor DD250G-2N now and feel ready to write up my first impressions...

Pro's:

Comfortable riding position. The footpegs aren't too far back so you sit fairly high, and the knees tuck in nicely to the tank.
Passenger riding position is also high. My wife says it's more comfortable than my 150 scooter with less vibration.
The suspension is fantastic even with 2 people up. The rear shocks just seem to soak it all up without bouncing aroud at all.
Front brake is very sharp.
Fires up first time every time. It's EFI so no need for the choke.
Tires are grippy even over sandy dusty roads.
I've put 150rmb of petrol in so far and clocked a little over 400km's, i've still got a third of a tank full. Not quite sure of the miles per gallon but that seems decent to me.
It's very nippy aroud town with enough acceleration to get away from any cars at the lights.
Very light bike. It feels nimble through the corners and you can really throw it around.
Dual exhaust gives a deep aggressive sound. Sounds much bigger than a 250.
Very little vibration. It was an area that i was concerned about before buying this bike, but i've been impressed so far. No rattles or shakes anywhere.

Cons:

Throttle isn't as responsive as it should be. Splutters for a split second before giving any feedback when downshifting.
The engine gets very hot. Gives out a weird burning smell after semi-long runs. Splutters more when the engine is hot.
It backfires all the time. Especially when coming off the throttle.
Finding neutral and 1st gear is a real pain in the arse. I've had the mechanics tweak it 3 times already. It has also popped out of gear a few times leaving the engine racing.
Rear brake isn't very sharp.
I've already had pink cooling fluid pissing down the side of the engine. Need that sorting 2mora.
The engine cover doesn't fit together very well. There are areas where the gap is a couple of mm's apart. Long term could cause problems.
Cables rub on the frame.
Engine seems to be screaming above 90kmph.

All in all i'm very happy with the bike so far. It's my first real motorbike and it really feels like a proper bike. Plenty of acceleration and more than enough power for a newbie. A few little niggles already which i'm hoping can be sorted out easily. I'll keep posting.

One thing you need to be prepared for is everyone asking about it. I've been asked if it's a BMW, and also a bloody Harley would you believe? It's already starting to grate on me after only a week. Having said that, the admiring glances from the ladies is always a bonus. Haha.

Went on a ride out to Sheshan today with my wife. Got a few nice pics.
I'll post more pics of the bike over the coming weeks...

P1060513.jpg

P1060532.jpg
P1060539.jpg

P1060524.jpg