Heya,
thanks for the suggestions. Still waiting on parts. Replace the entire ignition system (coil, CDI, Voltage regulator and finally the stator and magnetic pickup coil). It ran.

--for only 5 miles then quit. Learned the critter does not have a regular type of fuel pump. Instead, it is a vacuum type. Never heard of that kind before. neither had a local repair shop. New one on order. Still waiting 2 weeks later.

Also discovered during the 5 mile ride, the trip odometer does not work. New one on order (2 weeks and waiting)

Also discovered a defective fuse block assembly with pigtail. New one on order 4+ weeks. On back order. temp solution, I bypassed the opaque/white quick junction block and wired directly to the wiring harness while I wait for the new part.

Ya gotta like working on these things. I hope they continue to make them and sell parts. Seems rather silly to be replacing so many parts on a NEW scooter. Makes me question the promised "tested before shipping" statement and whether the quality is high enough for dependability. Not sure I want to be sitting on the side of the road with a broken scooter anywhere except in front of my home.

re: warranty: is for parts only. Not labor. Unless you do it yourself, you pay (if you can find a shop who will work on it) for all labor from your own pocket. The exception is if you live near a dealer (I don't).

Take it back? The purchase contract says you can return it with 7 days after delivery. I'm screwed. I ordered the Duke Touring 250 last April, delivered in may and at the end of june,2008 it is still not running. And, I am still waiting on parts.

Caveat Emptor - let the buyer beware. Would I buy another one? Probably not.

You gotta like to tinker and turn wrenches to buy these. I hope they continue to make the parts to repair them. At this rate, I'll end up replacing everything in the first year of ownership.

from Steve in Indiana