Go-Devil Folding Minibike
GO-DEVIL FOLDING MINIBIKE
CYCLE WORLD IMPRESSION
One of the Handiest Bees in the Hive
IN THE GROWING plethora of minibikes, occasionally there comes a product that attracts attention not by virtue of “cuteness” or pre-pubescent appeal, but by practicality. The Go-Devil is such a machine. It is a folding minibike that can be assembled in less than two minutes with no tools needed. It’s an exercise in simplicity that causes one to muse, “Why didn’t I think of that?”
The engine is a 53-cc two-cycle unit, which, while producing horsepower something less than the larger touring machines, will pull its rider about in almost patrician elegance. The state of tune is rather mild, but it is surprisingly “torquey” and extremely easy to start. Nor did hauling more than 200 lb. up a grade cause it to become unduly hot. This is because the engine is shrouded, and a cooling fan ensures plenty of air flow past the cooling fins. Although no gas mileage figures were taken, it’s a safe bet that its appetite is modest. Upward of 100 mpg would be realistic, and fuel capacity is one-half gal.
A thoughtful adjunct is a screw at the base of the float bowl to drain the carburetor prior to folding. Also, the gas cap vent can be closed to prevent any further seepage.
Another plus is the automatic transmission. It is actually a centrifugal clutch operating in conjunction with a variable ratio pulley. The whole system is quite simple and transmits a surprising amount of power. And the bike is not hampered by too much weight-73 lb. with a full gas tank. When we say that its performance is good, do not assume that you can bound across the earth in a Fuji Motor frenzy, for maximum speed is a moderate 24 mnh.
The Go-Devil comes in a handsome blue case made of tough nylon. Merely zip it open, fold back the large soft seat, swing the hinged front frame section forward and secure the top frame tube. Remove the front wheel from its niche and insert the stem of the fork assembly into the steering head. At the top of the head is a steering damper-like hub that screws down to secure the fork assembly stem. Next, pull up each handlebar, and swing into position as the locating pins fit into their respective notches. Finally, just lift the rear end slightly and swing out the rear shock absorber stanchions so that they click into place. All that is needed now is to open the gas tap, choke the carburetor, and pull the starter rope.
The Go-Devil is well muffledidripping faucets make more noise) and is a great deal of fun to ride. However, we did notice that the exhaust opening is directed at the right rear shock absorber and frame member. After a short run, they are coated with oil. The internalexpanding rear brake operates smoothly, and that big seat is very comfortable. While the Go-Devil can be a great amusement, its real value lies in its practical applications. Folded in its case, the Go-Devil can be conveniently stowed in almost any vehicle. It can be particularly useful when carried in boats, planes or campers. The scooter sells for $239.50 plus tax. Light, front brake, folding rack and a golf bag are optional equipment.
