Well, I'm around 225 lbs. and my bike is a Husky industrial cruiser. Yes it will take off from a dead stop without pedaling. Pretty torquey little engine. Much better acceleration than the gx31/35. I am going to install a wider rear tire. Using a 1.95" CST now. Slips some on wet pavement even with increased roller pressure. Only downside right now is the small fuel tank. But with the diaphragm carb not a big deal to install a larger tank on the right side of the u-bracket. Or carry a fuel can.