The second-gen Dio 2 (AF27/AF28) is the newest and most modern scooter in this style, sitting right on the edge of what counts as a true kyuu-gentsuki build. While most people know it from viral 100mph drag videos, that’s not the direction here. The Dio 2 is essentially the Dio 1’s bigger, stronger brother, slightly taller, a bit heavier, and not as nimble as a DJ1RR, but powered by Honda’s quickest 49cc two-stroke, the AF18E. OEM parts are pretty easy to source, so building one is not to hard as long as you avoid the modern “Dominican parts” look and stick to period-correct styling.
Common Modifications
With the Dio 2 you pretty much want to pull the springs right away. The stock wheel-to-fender gap is perfect once it’s dropped, but getting the springs out is a bit more work since you have to remove a C-clip to access everything. For a while, there was only one cowl and wing available (not counting rare simons/g-style parts), but that changed in early fall 2025 when K-Style dropped a full lineup of fiberglass parts made specifically for the Dio 2’s round bodylines.
Chambers are easy since AF18–AF28 pipes basically swap over, no problem. Wheel options are more limited because the Dio 2 uses wider wheels than the older Tacts and DJ1s , so you’re either keeping the stock wider trispokes or swapping to a drum or OEM disc set of Cool Irons. Clear taillights are on AliExpress (and honestly, that should be the only thing you buy from there). Keep vents to a minimum because sharp lines usually clash with the Dio 2’s bubbly panels.
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K-Style Fiberglass Cowls and Wings
K-Style released a full lineup of fiberglass parts in 2025 that match the Dio 2’s round bodylines. These are the best-fitting aftermarket aero parts for this base. -
Remove springs
Pull the springs and get low to the ground. Run true nosus or throw a skateboard bushing in, either will improve handling! -
AF18–AF28 Chamber Exhausts
Most chamber pipes from AF18 to AF28 swap right onto the Dio 2 with no issues, making it one of the easiest bases for finding a good chamber. -
Shaved seat
Shave the seat for a more aggressive shape that enhances the overall shape of your Dio. -
Clear Taillights
Clear taillights are available on AliExpress and fit the Dio 2 well. They’re a clean upgrade and probably the only AliExpress part worth buying for this platform. -
Shuriken wheels
Swap out the boring trispokes for Shuriken or cool iron wheels as a nice switch up.
This generation of the Dio had several variations, some rarer and more expensive than others. This covers the main ones you will run into:
Super Dio (AF27)
The standard base model. Simple styling with clean rear panels, standard forks, and basic drum brakes. Came with typical Dio colors of the early 90s. A very common platform for builds.
Super Dio SR (AF27 SR)
A higher trim version of the base Super Dio. Included upgraded suspension, painted wheels, a sportier seat cover, and factory graphics. Still drum brake equipped but slightly more stylish than the standard AF27.
Super Dio ZX (AF28 ZX)
The flagship sports model. Equipped with a factory front disc brake, stiffer suspension, and a stronger variator setup. The ZX also came with an OEM wing and exclusive colorways.
Why People Choose This Base
The Dio 2 has clean, round bodylines that look great when dropped, and the stock wheel-to-fender gap in my option is the best out of any fenderless scooter. Used OEM parts are still easy to find and not that expensive, and the wider factory wheels with some 2.50 tires give it a solid, planted look compared to older scooters. It works well with simple period-correct mods like a chamber, clear lenses, a wrapped seat, and a cowl/wing setup, and if you're a bigger rider, there is a lot of aftermarket engine support to beef it up a tad. It also had a very large cubby to store tools, gas, and snacks under the seat!
The Downsides
Its larger, taller body makes it feel bulkier and newer than the classic 80s bases, and sharp or heavily vented panels often clash with its rounded styling. Wheel options are limited as 8-inch wheels clash with the bulk of this scooter, and other Honda wheels, like shurikens, are far too skinny. Some builders consider it “too new” for classic kyuu-gentsuki styling.
So Why Should You Buy One???
If you want something newer-looking without losing the 90s charm, the Dio 2 is a great pick. It drops nicely, works well with simple period styling, and still has plenty of OEM parts floating around, and is a budget-friendly build. It’s a bit bulkier than older bases, but if you prefer a scooter that feels solid and isn’t tiny under you, the Dio 2 is an easy and reliable platform to build.
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