MBK Booster Tricks

The Yamaha Zuma, also marketed as the MBK Booster, is a motorized scooter that typically features a two-stroke engine -- although the 2012 model has a four-stroke engine. It has a top speed of 40 miles-per-hour and a potential fuel economy of abut 123 miles-per-gallon. Due to its light weight and rugged design, the MBK Booster is capable of a variety of tricks. If performing tricks on your Booster, it’s essential that you wear safety equipment and observe local laws and safety regulations.

  1. Wheelie

    • The Booster has a “wet weight” of 205 pounds. Wet weight assumes the bike is unladen, but topped up with gasoline and engine coolant. The front suspension is telescopic, meaning you can apply a small amount of down-force from the handlebars. The weight, combined with the potential to reach 40 miles-per-hour, means it is possible to execute a wheelie. A wheelie is achieved by riding at a moderate or fast speed, leaning back and elevating the front wheel from the ground while remaining in motion. Performing a wheelie can be extremely dangerous, especially at high speeds and on crowded roads. Only attempt to perform this trick on private land where there is no other traffic.

    Endo

    • The Booster has hydraulic front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. The hydraulic disc braking system typically affords you greater breaking power, which is required for an endo. This trick requires a high degree of skill. Attempt this on a flat, open and preferably paved piece of land. Because the rear brakes aren’t engaged, the rear wheel will still apply acceleration to the Booster. This causes the bike to “buck” up at the rear. The speed at which you are traveling when you apply the brake, and the force with which you apply the brake, determine the intensity of the trick. Too much speed, combined with too much brake force, can cause the bike to flip over completely.

    Jumps

    • The MBK Booster isn’t designed for stunts, but it has ground clearance of approximately 4.5 inches, depending on tire pressure, and "120/90-10" size tires. These tires are designed for grip, rather than slickness. These specifications, combined with the ergonomics of the bike, make it suitable for some basic off-road tricks, mainly small jumps. Only experienced riders wearing full protective clothing should attempt jumps.

    Endo Turn

    • The endo turn is an advanced trick that requires a high degree of control and skill. The first part of the trick is a standard endo, where the back wheel kicks upward when the front brake is applied. Once the wheel is elevated, you use your body weight and legs to guide the rear of the Booster to the side, so the front wheel becomes a pivot point for the bike.