Ya, that auto creates a new frame, then uses existing parts for the rest to keep it simple and cheap. But, I digress from Q's bikes.

The US market see's 250 as a minimum cc to be able to get up on a freeway. The 200cc and 150cc versions that have preceded these have never sold well. Once the 250 threshold is hit, US consumers will see them in a new light. Sub-250 bikes are pretty much just learners bikes here. And learner bikes are riden, passed on, resold, and put back on the market. Many new riders will buy a used and abused first bike to practice on then hop up to a larger displacement. I see customers contemplate this theshold all the time, it goes like this...

"I like the price of the 50cc bike/scoot, but for $XXX more I can get the 125/150 that can actually get out of it's own way." (half of 50cc customers go up to a 150cc within 3 years)

"But, Since the 125/150 IS a motorcycle (and requires licensing) I might as well look at the 250 bike/scoots that are freeway capable. WOW, those traditional brand 250cc scooters are priced at $4000 and up!!! I can get a REAL bike for that."

Then they need to choose between a price point new bike and a used whatever, where people who wrench are more likely to buy used, people who don't will buy new...with the giant caveat that a warrantee package and service is availible.

I really liked the 200 Super moto from the moments I saw it..but, I immediately knew that most US customers would wait to see if a 250 became availible. Now, the 250 will come out and the next reason to wait will be Fuel Injection. Then consumers will wait for "some other guy" to buy the first FI models and work the bugs out. Certainly this is a tough gamble for the manufacturer, but the choice is clear. Drop the 200 for a 250 ASAP, and start refining the FI motor for the future.

Later, Peej.