Slow top speed

[GatoTaco]

I recently purchased a 2006 P250 with 2000 Km from its original owner. It is in very clean condition, starts and runs smooth, and appears to have been well maintained; however, its top speed is only 60 MPH.  I replaced the spark plug, air cleaner element, and changed the oil. I also ran it until almost empty and topped it off with fresh mid grade gas since I suspected the fuel it came with was old (stale). After all that, no dice...  60MPH.  Ive read in this forum and in other sources that the P250 is capable of at least 70MPH.  Were should I start looking?  Also, has anyone documented the procedures for removing all the plastic around the engine compartment?

[Pimpy1]

My 2006  People 250 will hit between 80-85 MPH GPS usually. Your belt may be very worn down. Maybe is has lighter weight rollers in it also.

[GatoTaco]

I'm going to take the transmission cover off this weekend and look around. Thanks Pimpy.

[gregspeople250]

Like your cat icon.
Something is very much wrong here.  My '06 People 250 goes an indicated ~85 MPH in calm wind on a flat road.  The true speed is ~75 MPH, however.
At 2,000 KM, there should be almost no wear on the belt and drive system.  I'm curious about what you find in the drive belt area.

[JustWantToRide]

Check the easy stuff first.  Is your throttle cable adjusted too loosely so that you can't give it full throttle?  Check the brakes - make sure you aren't dragging a brake. 

What rpm is it at when you are topped out?  It's possible they changed the weights for max acceleration which would make the top speed drop.

The belt shouldn't have a problem with only 2000kms - but for all you know the previous owner rode it through creeks or something. 

It could also be a clogged fuel filter or crimped fuel line.  It could be a carb problem with a slightly clogged high speed jet or a pinhole in a diaphragm.   

[Punk052]

Mine Did this last year. I tried everything and it didn't get better. I got new rollers, cleaned the carb, new oil, plug, filter. Then I took the top off the carb and found a kink in the spring that wasn't letting the carb open when on the throttle. I would take the top of the carb off and check the spring. Make sure it is not damaged and that it is installed correctly and nothing is binding up with it. I found a new spring that was close enough to make work at a hardware store for 65 cents. It runs like a champ now and cruises at 70-75 gps all day with a top of 85 gps. (I do have larger tires though, so my top speed is a bit higher). its a no cost check and you just need a screwdriver and to open the carb access in the met in box.

[GatoTaco]

Thanks for all the hints and ideas. I will be looking at all those recommended areas.