Rikon Mini Lathes Review

By Frank September 21, 2023

RIKON Mini Lathe Model #70-100, Item #832637

Rikon has taken the standard mini lathe to the next level with increased capacity with this Model 70-100.

Featuring a 12″ swing and 16″ between centers with the ability to add one or more bed extensions, 12 position indexing head, self-ejecting tailstock with 2-1/2″ ram travel, 8″ tool rest, convenient lifting handle, tool holder, easy access to the top and bottom pulleys for quick speed changes, six speed (430, 810, 1,230, 1,810, 2,670, 3,900), #2 MT head stock, powered by a 1/2 HP TEFC motor.

Specs:

Motor 1/2hp
Swing over bed 12″
Swing over tool rest base 9-1/2″
Working distance between centers 16″
Ability to add multiple extensions
Overall dimensions: 32″ long x 10-1/2″ wide x 19″ high.
Includes: 8” tool rest, live center, 3” faceplate, spur center, tooling knockout.
Woodcraft on-line, Model 70-100 is $399.99.

Belt Replacement for Model 70-100:

Woodcraft carries belt replacements for the Model #70-100 through our Cust. Support / Tech Dept.
Belt Replacement Item #837988
Customer Service: 1-800-535-4482 (M-F, 8 a.m. – 12 a.m. EST, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekends)
Technical Department: 1-800-535-4486 (M-F, 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.)

Rikon 1/2HP Variable Speed Mini Lathe Model 1216, Item #151291

Finally, a quality variable speed lathe at an affordable price. The New RIKON 1216 Variable Speed Mini Lathe, Model #70-050, is a true workhorse and offers a range of features that rival the much more expensive variable speed lathes. The powerful 1/2 HP DC motor speed is controlled by selecting one of three belt pulley positions and simply turning the dial to your desired speed. Your choice of three speed ranges (300-700, 700-1500, 1500-3350) allows you to adjust for cutting, sanding, buffing and curing finish with ease.

Specs:

Powerful 1/2 HP DC Motor
Motor Control: Electronic Variable Speed
Speed: 300-700, 700-1500, 1500-3350 rpm
Swing over Bed: 12″
Distance between centers: 16″
Quick change belt tensioning system
Cast iron base construction
Precision machined steel bed
Drive spindle: 1″-8 RH TPI
Head and tailstock taper: #2 MT
Includes: 1/2 HP Max, 120 V motor, 4″ tool rest, spur center, 3″ face plate, tool rest base, live center and instruction manual
Woodcraft on-line, Model 70-050VS is $429.99

Our Power Tool Product Manager Guru Andrew Bondi, tells all about the Rikon Mini Lathe Models 70-100 & VS1216:

Rikon Variable Speed Mini Lathe, Model 70-200EVS, Item #845084

Rikon introduces the new 12″ x 16″ Variable Speed Mini Lathe 1/2HP Model # 70-200EVS. The AC motor speed is controlled by a quality inverter box which provides more torque than a standard DC motor. The four bearing spindle design will take the stress of heavy turning loads. The 70-200EVS is a powerful work horse compared to other lathes in its class. Most lathes will slow or stall when too much force is applied to the work piece.

The 70-200EVS controls speed and torque electronically, monitoring the load placed on the motor.
When the AC inverter senses extreme loads it will compensate to keep the work piece at the desired speed.
The 12″ swing is perfect for the small to medium projects.
Small spindles and similar work can be done with the 16″ spacing between centers.
The 12 position indexing head with locking spindle is a great feature when marking out for fluting and other milling projects.
Extra long shoe plate on the tailstock provides more surface area for locking which prevents slip.
Standard 1″ x 8TPI spindle with #2 Morse taper and 3/8″ through bore for center drilling.
Self ejecting tailstock means no tool needed to remove the live center and 2-1/2″ ram travel is perfect for drilling applications.
The heavy duty cast iron base has holes in the feet for secure bench mounting.
Woodcraft on-line, Model 70-200EVS is $849.99.

Don’t forget about our Rikon Accessories: