Having been a moped mechanic in Lansing, MI, USA for 4 years when I was younger, I feel this bike is a top of the line machine!
I started out riding mopeds as an inexpensive alternative to owning a car. I found that they were more cost effective and with basic maintenance and minimal repairs, they last virtually forever. I started out on a Vespa and graduated to a Vespa Grande. Over time, I owned a Batavus and a Puch. Although I do not own the Hero Puch, I have test driven her!
I have read some of the other reviews that are more negative of this machine and felt a need to write and defend her!
The gears are a basic gear shift mechanism which with proper maintenance will last forever. Ocassionally every rider will need to replace a frayed wire but this is a minimal expense and easy to do on your own if you simply look at the way the cable inserts.
The Puch does have a higher level of vibration due to the sizing of the rear sprocket. In order to respond with the power and pick up that today’s riders demand, this is a necessary compromise.
Keeping the moped indoors (a garage, etc.) will prolong the life of it and cut down on costly repairs. Proper handling of the machine and storage make a big difference in how it responds over time. Maintenance will always be an issue whether it involves a bicycle, moped or car! This bike, according to the statistics I have looked at, has lower maintenance rates than Peugot, any of the Honda’s (No-peds), etc. Although I do not currently own a moped, I do continue to follow them and read up on the statistics, test drive them, etc.
The Hero Puch has a basic lock mechanism to deter theft. As with every lock mechanism, it can be compromised easily with a screwdriver! When I ride a moped, I never depend on the lock on the machine, I always have a locking cable handy.
Overall, I found the Hero Puch to be a little steeper priced than other mopeds of it’s callaber, but worthy of the price! If you are looking for a fast, easy, inexpensive mode of transportation, this machine will not let you down!