could the clutch be slipping?? I know these engines have to be started with the clutch disengaged . It feels very much like what you described if i squeeze the clutch when i kick mine.
good place to learn. 27 miles of ,not very technical, trails and lots of soft sand. the fact that it's only 45 minutes from the house and $5 to ride all day is just gravy.
My only mods so far are a 16 tooth front sprocket to tame down first gear for my new rider, and modifying the foot pegs to move them down and back slightly for big feet and long legs.
Introduction..
I Just picked up a brand new, in the crate, TaoTao DB27. I bought it to teach my 14yo 6'1" boy how to ride, but It is a surprising how much fun i am having on it.