Engine choice? Zongshen, predator, or clone?

#1
Hello everyone. New to the mini bike world I picked up an old Doodle Bug DB30R that was pretty rough. I decided to fix it up, paint it, and all that good stuff. Its missing the throttle cable and brake lever but the issue Im currently having it power. The original motor is toast from sitting outside. I want to keep the power plant around $100. Not looking to race just go forward lol. My first choice is the Predator 79cc because its close to the original but Ive seen a Zongshen 170 NU and COA. I dont know it the Zongshen would work but it looks just like the Pred 212cc. Can anyone tell me if the Zongshen would work? Here is a link to it https://www.surpluscenter.com/Engines/Gas-Diesel-Engines/Horizontal-Shaft-Engines/208cc-5-HP-Zongshen-Engine-170-COA-28-1893.axd

https://www.brandnewengines.com/mtd208cchorizontalshaftengine25mmstepx345keyedshaft170-nu.aspx
 
#2
Hello and welcome!

Both of those would need the crankshaft machined or replaced to fit a clutch. Get a Predator 212, it has a 3/4" straight shaft, a standard 3/4" clutch will fit it. It's on sale for $99.99 and HF will ship it for $6.99.

The Predator 79cc is about 20% smaller than the underpowered 97cc OEM engine, I doubt you'd be happy with it.

https://www.harborfreight.com/65-HP...zIjoiOTkuOTkiLCJwcm9kdWN0X2lk IjoiODgxMCJ9

https://www.oldminibikes.com/forum/index.php?threads/baja-blitz-motor-upgrade.169736/

https://www.oldminibikes.com/forum/index.php?threads/did-my-first-predator-swap-today.146269/
 
#3
Thanks abunch and thats what I was afraid of with the Zongshen. I like the 212 Pred but I can get a same spec clutch as original for the 79cc. The 212 closest clutch is 12 tooth original was 11. Not sure what difference that is. I do plan on a different air filter and exhaust just to look cooler lol.
 
#4
Don't worry about the 1 tooth diffrents in the clutch the power will more than make up for it I run a 12 t clutch and 60 rear and thought I was gonna be to tall geared but was very surprised at take off power even with a fat guy on it
It easier and cheaper to tune a motor down
 
#5
Oh I see. Thanks I tried to look into it to see what all that meant. My Doodle bugs sprocket was 70 and the clutch 11. I might go with the 212. I found a vintage fuel tank but need to see if it will fit lol. Ill try and put up some pics. 20200618_094715.jpg 20200630_180626.jpg
 
#9
Here is a few pictures of the Baja - Dirt Bug DB-30S Mini Bike I restored for my older brother that has a totally stock Predator - 212cc Engine in the chassis. Its a pretty tight fit but it worked out just fine.
 

Attachments

Top