JCL 250cc scooters are gas-powered scooters meant to combine the easy handling and maneuverability of smaller scooters with the power and acceleration of small-model motorcycles. As with other scooters and motorcycles, there are a number of mechanical issues that can crop up in the operation and maintenance of a JCL 250cc scooter.
As with other gas-powered scooters, JCL 250cc scooters are subject to ignition problems. These problems included the scooter's inability to turn over and the amount of time it takes your scooter to turn over. These problems will relate to the ignition system of your JCL 250cc scooter, which includes the battery, the ignition and kill switches, the spark plug, the choke and the gas dispersal system. Typically, addressing ignition problems requires you to troubleshoot the electrical elements (ignition and kill switches, and spark plugs) before moving to the mechanical components (the choke and gas dispersal).
More difficult to diagnose, but often easier to solve than starting problems, are problems with maintaining a start once you have it. Typically, these issues pertain to some fault within one of the systems necessary to maintain ignition, including the fuel system, the spark plug, the gas or air filter or the kill switch. You must troubleshoot and if necessary adjust each of these ignition components to discover why your scooter fails to continue running once it has started.
According to John Haynes, author of "Scooters, Automatic Transmission 50 to 250cc (Hayne's Automotive Repair Manual)," JCL 250cc scooters are notorious for "winding down" as time goes on. This means that even though the scooters are meant to have more power and speed than smaller scooters, they still tend to get slower as time progresses. These problems typically stem from poor upkeep of components and neglect of routine maintenance relating to the air filter and exhaust system, throttle cable, drive belt or tires. Addressing "winding down" requires you to move from "out to in," that is, to begin by troubleshooting easy-to-access components (tires, exhaust system) before moving on to those that require disassembly (drive belt, throttle cable, air filter).
Though lighter and slower than most motorcycles, JCL 250cc scooters can still be exceedingly dangerous if they lose control or crash. A JCL 250cc scooter can travel over forty miles per hour, meaning any problems with handling can be life threatening. Incorrect alignment of the front and rear tires and misalignment of the front forks often leads to handling problems. Removing, refilling and realigning the front and rear tires is a good way to correct poor handling in the JCL 250cc scooter.
