What brand is GY6?
3 Answers
GY6 is the name of an engine. The GY6 engine is a pressure-splash lubricated forced air-cooled engine with high power, originally produced by Honda Motor Co., Ltd. It features a carburetor with a resistor choke vacuum diaphragm. The GY6 engine is also a 125cc and above engine, commonly used in fully enclosed motorcycles, such as Lingying 125, Daxian 125 or 150, Dr. A, etc. GY6 engine specifications: 1. Compression ratio: 9.2:1; 2. Power (original Haomai): 6.2KW/7500RPM; 3. Power (replica): 5.4KW/7500RPM; 4. Oil capacity (Haomai): 750ml; 5. Gear oil capacity: 110ml; 6. Carburetor type: resistor choke vacuum diaphragm carburetor; 7. Matching carburetor model: MIKUNI BS24.
Many people ask me what brand GY6 is, but first I need to clarify that GY6 isn't a brand at all—it's a type of scooter engine. Originally developed by Honda as a classic design, it was later adopted by Taiwanese manufacturers like SYM and KYMCO, becoming a universal standard. In simple terms, the GY6 engine is like a universal template, with displacements typically ranging from 50cc to 150cc, used in many Chinese-made scooters. Having ridden motorcycles for over a decade, I can say this engine is quite rugged and durable, but with long-term use, you'll need regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and proper maintenance. If you're shopping for a scooter, don’t focus on the brand—check if it’s based on the GY6 platform, as many budget scooters use this. Opt for reputable brands like Haojue or Zongshen. Of course, it has its flaws, like unstable idling or slightly higher fuel consumption, which are common in older models. For beginners, I’d recommend trying a used one first.
I remember the GY6 engine clearly. When I was younger, I worked in a motorcycle shop for over half a year, and customers often asked if it was a brand. Actually, it's just an engine platform originating from Honda's old design, widely copied by Asian manufacturers. For example, Taiwanese manufacturers like Kymco extensively use the GY6 in their scooter series. Its advantages are simple structure, easy repairs, and cheap, widely available parts. I once rode a small scooter with a GY6 engine that ran over 20,000 kilometers with almost no major repairs, but I noticed power loss during long summer rides, which isn't as good as imported high-end engines. If you're buying a scooter, check the manual to confirm the engine type—don't just trust the brand. For maintenance, regularly clean the carburetor and air filter to extend its lifespan. In short, it's not an independent brand but a classic base, suitable for daily commuting and fuel efficiency—don't be fooled by knockoff products online.
