Two strangers are sitting in a bar. One of them is remembering when he was rich and had a nice motorcycle and a palatial home. “I could ride that bike for a whole hour and not even make it out of my driveway,” he says. The other guy, who’s poor as dirt, thinks about it and sighs. “Yeah,” he says sympathetically. “I had a bike like that once, too.”
If you’re one of those types who think a scooter shouldn’t be turned loose on the streets, sit down for a spell, take a load off. We’ve got a few things to show you.
Scooters, like real motorcycles, have evolved and branched out over time, so what was once a single branch on the evolutionary tree of two-wheeled life is now a couple of branches, maybe even three. You’ve got your 50 cc runabouts, which come in two- and four-stroke versions, and which can live for two weeks on the fumes from a paint can, and you’ve got your 500 cc and larger touring variants that you wouldn’t hesitate to ride from here to Saskatchewan. Or better yet, from Saskatchewan to here. And in between, there’s a whole crop of 200 and 300 cc midsize scooters that you can still hide behind a fire hydrant but wouldn’t be afraid to take out of town where the highways are long and the cars are fast.
ABS, adjustable windscreens, grip heaters, even, believe it or not, traction control—all of these things can be found on scooters, because high-performance motorcycle technology is dribbling downward, and it’s gotta land somewhere. Just be thankful that gravity is a one-way trip.
Aprilia SR 50 R Factory |
The SR50 has a liquid-cooled two-stroke equipped with electronically controlled direct injection via an 18 mm throttle body. The frame is a steel tube cradle design and the engine acts as the swingarm via two radial mounts. It has a telescopic fork and disc brakes at both ends. Bodywork was inspired by the 2013 WSBK championship winning RSV4, and the Aprilia Racing team uses it to get around the paddock stylishly and in race-winning time. |
| Price |
$3,495 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 2-stroke |
| Displacement |
49 cc |
| Fuel system |
EFI |
| Seat height |
820 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
13/13 in. |
| Weight |
90 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr unlimited km |
Aprilia SR Motard 50 |
As its name suggests, the SR Motard 50 is a scooter in the supermoto tradition. With 14-inch wheels, a front disc brake, 4.5 hp at 9,500 rpm, a front fork with 76 mm of travel, and electric plus kick start, it’s equipped to handle the roads comfortably and smoothly. The engine acts as a swingarm and the single rear shock has preload adjustment. An underseat compartment can handle a flip-up helmet, and a low 770 mm seat height adds convenience for shorter riders. |
| Price |
$2,195 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
770 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
14/14 in. |
| Weight |
90 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr unlimited km |
Benelli Pepe / 49X |
The Benelli Pepe is powered by a carbureted, air-cooled 49.2 cc 4-stroke engine with a different bore-and-stroke than the 49X. It has uniquely shaped bodywork, and the headlight and front turn signals are incorporated into the front fairing. The 49X uses a carbureted, 4-stroke 49.9 cc single, a steel triangular trellis frame, a telescopic fork, and preload-adjustable shock. Maximum speed is a claimed 50 km/h, and starting is by push button or kick. Benelli scooters are sold by Canadian Tire. |
| Price |
$2,399/$2,499 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49/50 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
770/800 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
16/16, 10/10 in. |
| Weight |
97/100 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr |
BMW C600 Sport / C650GT |
BMW entered the maxi-scooter category with two highly competent and roomy 647 cc models. The C600 Sport and C650GT use the same 60 hp parallel twin engine, tubular steel frame and 15-inch wheels with ZR-rated rubber. The Sport has a higher seat and flatter handlebar compared to the GT’s lower bars and seat, adjustable backrest and passenger footboards. Both are available in three colour schemes, and as with all BMW models, the Maxis are ABS-equipped. |
| Price |
$10,990/$11,450 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
647 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
810/780 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
15/15 in. |
| Weight |
249 kg |
| Warranty |
3 yr unlimited km |
Chironex Vinny / Chase / Tuxedo |
The Chironex Vinny is classically styled and available in 50 cc ($2,299) and 150 cc ($2,499) air-cooled, four-stroke versions. Both run on 10-inch wheels but while the 50 has a single rear shock, the 150 is fitted with two. The $2,199 Chase 50 and $2,399 Chase 150 are aimed at eco-conscious urbanites seeking something with a little flash. The $3,499 Tuxedo 250 is designed to excel as a handy commuter and a lightweight, short-haul tourer. |
| Price |
$2,199–$3,499 |
| Engine |
Air/liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
50/150/250 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
NA |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
10/10, 13/13 in. |
| Weight |
82–97/155 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr |
Honda Ruckus |
For 2014 the Ruckus gets a price increase, though its bare-bones styling remains unchanged – until you change it, which many Ruckus owners do. The liquid-cooled 50 cc 4-stroke powertrain was derived from the now-discontinued Jazz. The seat is low and the over-sized and deep-tread tires come in handy when fleeing the cops. Other tidbits include a locking underseat helmet holder, full instrumentation and a parking brake. |
| Price |
$3,069 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
735 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
10/10 in. |
| Weight |
88 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr unlimited km |
Honda Giorno |
Introduced last year, the Giorno picks up where the Jazz left off, but with a few improvements. Styling is familiar but freshened with new bodywork, instrument cluster and handlebars. There are new colours for 2014, including a white/pink/brown combo that’ll make you crave Neapolitan ice cream. Honda describes the fuel injection system as “miserly”–whatever that means–while Combined Braking System (CBS) actuates drums front and back when the rear brake is used. |
| Price |
$2,299 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
719 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
10/10 in. |
| Weight |
81 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr unlimited km |
Honda PCX150 |
The carried-over PCX150 gets a modest price cut for 2014. Many current scooters echo traditional Italian Vespa styling, but Honda’s PCX150 is not one of them, sporting arguably the most edgy, futuristic look on the market. Ensuring it’s as much go as show, the PCX is propelled by a liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 153 cc single and equipped with CBS. Side- and centrestands are standard, and the fuel tank is located under the floorboard, which should make handling virtually effortless. |
| Price |
$3,499 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
153 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
759 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
14/14 in. |
| Weight |
130 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr unlimited km |
Honda Forza |
There was a lot of scooter news from Honda last year, but the biggest headline of all might have been the Forza. It’s no lightweight, but the low seat height should provide extra confidence for riders of short inseam. A single 256 mm front disc with dual-piston caliper is linked to the 240 mm rear disc via CBS. ABS also comes standard. Storage space is plentiful, with dual fairing pockets, glove box and underseat compartment. An accessory top box is also available. |
| Price |
$5,899 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
279 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
716 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
14/13 in. |
| Weight |
194 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr unlimited km |
Keeway F-Act 50 |
An air-cooled 49.9 cc 4-stroke engine powers Keeway’s F-Act 50. It has 12-inch wheels, dual headlights and a digital speedometer. Electric and kick start is standard, as well as disc front and drum rear brakes. Claimed fuel mileage is 2 l/100 km, and colour choices are blue, red, platinum, matt black, racing red, and white. Keeway’s Canadian distributor is Go4it Sales which also sells TGB scooters. |
| Price |
$2,200 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
50 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
840 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
12/12 in. |
| Weight |
88 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr |
Kymco Super 8 50 2T / Super 8 150 |
The $2,595 Super 8 50 2T is powered by a 49 cc 2-stroke single, has 14-inch wheels, a cross-drilled front disc (rear drum), telescopic fork, and adjustable single rear shock. It’s high stance and low CG make it feel more like a sportbike than a scooter really should. The Super $2,995 Super 8 150 shares all those goodies, but uses a 149.7 cc 4-stroke engine. Both have underseat storage space and a sidestand as well as a centrestand. |
| Price |
$2,595/$2,995 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 2-/4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49/150 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
780/790 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
14/14 in. |
| Weight |
107–117 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Kymco Sento 50i / Sento 110i |
The $2,845 Sento 50i and $2,995 Sento 110i boast fuel injection, 4-stroke engines, LED turn signals and lights, and an old-time Italian-flair classic body style. Long, textured seats are comfortable and roomy enough for a passenger, and there’s a good amount of underseat storage as well as a storage compartment under the handlebar. The 110i’s 111.7 cc engine makes a claimed 10 hp, enough to beat the traffic to your favourite coffee hangout, where you’re sure to draw admiring looks. |
| Price |
$2,845/$2,995 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49/112 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
740 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
10/10 in. |
| Weight |
90–91 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Kymco Agility City 50 |
The Agility City is a 4-stroke 50 cc scooter with modern styling that looks like a bigger machine, owing to large-for-its-class 16-inch wheels. Utility is the buzzword for this model, as it is equipped with storage spaces under the seat and dash as well as a rear top case. Instruments are analogue and include a clock. The 12-volt electrical outlet will be handy for recharging your i-Toy. There are both side- and centrestand and the single shock is adjustable. |
| Price |
$2,495 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
840 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
16/16 in. |
| Weight |
108 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Kymco Like 50 2T / 200i |
The Like 50 2T and 200i both use air-cooled, single-cylinder engines but the 50’s is Kymco’s tried-and-true 2-stroke and carbureted, while the 200i’s is a newer fuel-injected 4-stroke. Styling is full-on traditional and storage is plentiful with an underseat compartment (illuminated on the 200i), glove box with a 12 volt charger, and the ever-so-convenient rear case. The 50 2T has a vented front disc and a rear drum brake while the 200i has discs at both ends. Both have side- and centrestands. |
| Price |
$2,495/$3,295 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 2-/4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49/163 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor/fuel injection |
| Seat height |
780 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
12/12 in. |
| Weight |
101/120 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Kymco Movie 150 |
The Movie 150 is promoted as a scooter that’ll make you feel like a star. It’s got a lot of flash with its massive V-shaped headlight glass cowling and sculpted bodywork, but it has substance too: disc brakes with floating front caliper, adjustable dual rear shocks, analogue tach, digital multifunction dash display, sidestand, centrestand, underseat storage. Twelve-inch wheels, a low 780 mm seat height, and a 7.5 litre fuel tank add up to lots of riding and probably getting discovered by that movie director. |
| Price |
$3,595 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
149 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
780 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
12/12 in. |
| Weight |
114 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Kymco Downtown 300i |
The Downtown 300i has a fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine that makes a claimed 22 horsepower. The 14-inch front wheel carries a floating 260 mm brake disc, augmented by a 240 mm disc on the 13-inch rear wheel, and ABS is standard. The Downtown features a tire pressure sensor system, adjustable dual rear shocks, 12-volt battery charger, cell phone holder and a large underseat storage compartment. Its roomy layout is all-day comfortable. |
| Price |
$5,995 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
299 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
775 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
14/13 in. |
| Weight |
167 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Kymco Xciting 500 Ri |
The Xciting 500Ri ABS combines motorcycle-like power with scooter convenience and comfort. The 499 cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine pumps out a claimed 38 horsepower and feeds it to wheel by chain drive. Sporting specs include disc brakes with dual front discs and 2-piston calipers, ABS, and meaty 120/70 front tire and 150/70 rear. There is a 12-volt charger and enough underseat storage to stow helmets or a backpack. There’s an adjustable backrest, side-and centrestand, and a hand-operated parking brake. |
| Price |
$6,995 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
498 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
780 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
15/14 in. |
| Weight |
200 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Kymco MyRoad 700i |
The 695 cc twin cylinder honker under the plastic of the Kymco MyRoad 700i is the biggest in scooterland, and with DOHC, chain drive,10.5:1 compression, EFI, and 15- and 14-inch wheels, it’s a big, comfortable scooter with a double shot of performance. Treatments include keyless ignition, handlebar-button electric shock and fork damping adjustment, LED lights, dual full-face underseat storage, two front discs with dual piston calipers and ABS, parking brake, and a sidestand killswitch. |
| Price |
$9,995 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
695 cc |
| Fuel system |
EFI |
| Seat height |
780 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
15/14 |
| Weight |
265 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Piaggio Fly 50 |
The Fly 50 has a Hi-PER4 low-emissions air-cooled 4-stroke engine that makes a claimed 4.5 hp and 2.8 lb-ft of torque—small numbers, but it’s a true Fly-weight at 100 kg dry. A front disc brake is paired with a rear drum for maximum variety, and suspension is handled by a telescopic fork and a single rear shock. The seat height is a very accommodating 760 mm. This Fly does not come out of a teleportation booth, but all Piaggio scooters do come with a free year of road-side assistance. |
| Price |
$2,395 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
50 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
760 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
12/12 in. |
| Weight |
100 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr unlimited km |
Piaggio Typhoon 50 |
The Typhoon 50 has sporty bodywork wrapped around an air-cooled, carbureted 50 cc single-cylinder engine, which Piaggio says is capable of propelling the machine to a windy 64 km/h. Fun fact: the Typhoon 50 gets a claimed 38 miles to a litre of gas. The Typhoon is a back-to-basics scooter: light, simple, inexpensive to run, and easy to use. But its engine has a 4-valve head, its front brake has a 220 mm disc and a 2-piston caliper, its wheels are 14-inchers, and you can start it with your foot or your thumb. |
| Price |
$2,095 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
770 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
14/14 in. |
| Weight |
110 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr unlimited km |
Piaggio BV350 |
The BV350 is powered by a 330 cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected four-stroke single with one overhead camshaft and four valves. It develops a claimed 33 hp at 8,250 rp and will propel the BV and its passenger to 138 km/h, according to Piaggio. The BV350’s longish 1,560 mm wheelbase, 16- and 14-inch wheels, and stepped seat are ideal for riders who prefer not to travel alone. Disc brakes adorn both wheels, and the you can get 13 litres of gas into the tank. |
| Price |
$6,195 |
| Engine |
Liquid-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
330 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
795 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
16/14 in. |
| Weight |
177 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr unlimited km |
Sachs MadAss |
If there was ever a bike you should buy just because of its name, it’s the MadAss. It’s made by Sachs Bikes International in Germany and distributed in Canada by Chironex; we’re not sure exactly what the MadAss is, but it features a four-speed transmission, tube frame acting as a five-litre fuel tank, and 16-inch wheels. Available paint schemes are black, red, white, and grey, and the options list includes a racking system and alloy wheels. |
| Price |
$2,699 |
| Engine |
100 kg Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
120 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
838 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
16/16 in. |
| Weight |
100 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Saga Retro 50 / Quest 50 / Quest 150 |
Saga’s $1,799 Retro 50 is a traditional scooter with a 50 cc air-cooled engine claimed to be powerful enough for a 70 km/h top speed. The $2,299 Quest 50 and $2,499 Quest 150 keep the classic look and are for the most part identical machines. The $2,199 Deluxe 50 and $2,399 Deluxe 150 incorporate large dual headlights and angular bodywork into a sleeker design. The air-cooled 4-stroke engines as the same as in the Quest models. |
| Price |
$1,799–$2,499 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49/149 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
762 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
12/12 in. |
| Weight |
77–113 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Suzuki Burgman 200 |
The Burgman family just keeps on getting bigger, and in this case, smaller. The Burgman 200 is a new model and the smallest member of the Burgman family, but it’s well equipped, with dual disc brakes, a drive belt, EFI, and antiskid brakes. Twin rear shocks are preload adjustable, and a 12 volt outlet is placed below the instrument panel. Underseat storage is big enough for two full-face helmets. The options catalog is not large, but does include handlebar weights and, best of all, a grip heater kit. |
| Price |
$4,999 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
200 cc |
| Fuel system |
EFI |
| Seat height |
735 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
13/12 in. |
| Weight |
163 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr limited |
Suzuki Burgman 400 |
The Burgman 400 is powered by a 400 cc liquid-cooled DOHC single, and is ready to travel with a 13.5-litre fuel tank, 62 litres of illuminated underseat storage, plus a smaller compartment for personal items. Its 41 mm fork provides 110 mm of travel and the rear monoshock has preload adjustability. Cutaway footboards permit easy access to the ground, and front and rear disc brakes are equipped with ABS. |
| Price |
$7,999 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
400 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
710 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
14/13 in. |
| Weight |
222 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr limited |
Suzuki Burgman 650 Executive |
Until the BMWs arrived, the Burgman 650 Executive’s 638cc, 8-valve twin-cylinder engine was the largest in the mega-scooter class. The Executive offers the rider a choice of two automatic shift modes (power or normal) and a manual 5-speed mode, selected via a handlebar switch. ABS is standard, and the windshield height is electrically adjustable. There’s enough storage space for two full-face lids, and it’s lit. Three smaller compartments live below the handlebar. |
| Price |
$11,099 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
638 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
750 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
15/14 in. |
| Weight |
277 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr limited |
Sym Symba 100 |
In what may best be described as a tribute to Honda’s legendary Cub, the Sym Symba proves imitation to still be a form of flattery. There is little to no modern upgrading of the classic design, with an air-cooled 4-stroke single burning up the road on 17-inch wheels and stopped by drum brakes. The gearbox is a four-speed semi-automatic, so your left foot gets to play around, but your left hand is ready for waving at admirers. Colour choices are red, black, and turquoise. |
| Price |
$2,699 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
101.4 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
759 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
17/17 in. |
| Weight |
95 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Sym HD 200 |
The HD200 is powered by a liquid-cooled 4-stroke single that displaces 171.2 cc and makes a claimed 15.3 hop at 8,000 rpm. With a telescopic fork, a 220 mm disk front brake, and a weight of 135 kg, the scooter’s performance should be rewarding, if not exactly stirring. The style is a cross between scooter and adventure-touring bike, with a high-mounted fairing and sporty, dark-tinted windscreen. It’s available in red, black, yellow, and grey. |
| Price |
$3,999 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
171 cc |
| Fuel system |
N/A |
| Seat height |
790 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
16/16 in. |
| Weight |
135 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Sym Mio |
The Sym Mio is an old-school-styled scooter in the Italian tradition, though its small windscreen and detailed headlight and fairing ensemble are tasteful and modern looking. With an air-cooled 49.5 cc SOHC 4-stroke engine that makes a claimed 1.9 hp, the decimal really matters. Electric and kick start add convenience on top of fun, and top speed is a claimed 48 km/h. A disc front brake is partnered with a drum in the rear, and suspension is a telescopic fork and a unit swingarm. |
| Price |
$2,299 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
50 cc |
| Fuel system |
N/A |
| Seat height |
760 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
10/10 in. |
| Weight |
80 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
Sym Citicom 300i |
The Citycom 300i is Sym’s big boy scooter, powered by a 262 cc fuel-injected 4-stroke, the biggest engine in the company’s lineup. Its top speed is a claimed 130 km/h, and it has disc brakes at both ends and a drive belt for flexible motivation. With 16-inch tires, a weight of 184 kg., and a wheelbase of 1500 mm (59 inches), the Citycom is bordering on maxi-scooter territory, though it’s not there yet. Its cast wheels, stepped seat, wedge fairing, high windscreen, and functional mirrors lend a purposeful appearance. |
| Price |
$5,199 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
262 cc |
| Fuel system |
EFI |
| Seat height |
800 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
16/16 in. |
| Weight |
184 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr limited |
TGP Tapo |
The TGB Tapo RS/RR 50 is distributed by Go4It Sales in Alberta and is new to the Canadian market. It’s powered by a 49.3 cc 2 stroke and is available in white, black, blue, and red. With 12-inch wheels, a disc brake up front and a drum in back, the $2,399, made-in-Taiwan Tapo RS/RR 50 is a standard scooter with an economical 2-stroke engine and a claimed 4.7 hp output. |
| Price |
$2,399 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 2-stroke |
| Displacement |
49 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
790 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
12/12 in. |
| Weight |
94 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr |
Tomos Nitro 50 / 150 |
Slovenia-based manufacturer Tomos offers its Nitro scooter in 50 cc and 150 cc versions. Both have air-cooled, carbureted engines, 12-inch wheels, disc front and drum rear brakes, and an underseat storage compartment large enough to stow a full-face helmet. Each has a rear rack and flyscreen, and instruments are simple, attractive, and best of all, analogue. Styling on the two models is nearly identical. |
| Price |
$N/A |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49/150 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
762 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
12/12 in. |
| Weight |
113/115 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr limited |
Vespa LX50 / S50 / S50 Sport |
The Vespa S 50 4V and LX 50 4V use a 49.4 cc air-cooled 4-stroke single, which Vespa updated a couple of years ago. The LX follows an old-time Vespa scooter sensibility that harks all the way back to the reign of King William Lyon Mackenzie, and the S50 merges vintage chic with modern technology: both are good-looking scooters that offer reliability and fun as well as great fuel economy and ease of use. The $3,895 S50 Sport has updated graphics. New Vespa scooters come with a year of roadside assistance. |
| Price |
$3,795/$3,895 |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49 cc |
| Fuel system |
Carburetor |
| Seat height |
775 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
11/10 in. |
| Weight |
102 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr unlimited km |
Vespa Primavera |
The Vespa Primavera first appeared in 1968 and is back in the lineup for 2014 in considerably updated form. Taking styling cues from Vespa’s 946 project (see below), the Piaggio Style Centre has reshaped bodywork for a flowing, modern look. A new engine mounting system reduces vibration, and new front suspension reduces sliding friction. The 150 uses a 3-valve engine and the 50 uses a 4-valve engine. The Primavera is available in white, dark blue, red, brown, light blue, and black. |
| Price |
N/A |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
150/50 cc |
| Fuel system |
EFI |
| Seat height |
780 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
11/11 in. |
| Weight |
N/A |
| Warranty |
2 yr unlimited |
Vespa GTV |
The GTV defines the classic scooter look but is a high-specification machine with a 4-valve, fuel-injected, liquid-cooled 278 cc engine said to be capable of jetting all of its 146 kilos to a top speed of 129 km/h. It is suspended by a twin-shock chassis with disc-braked 12-inch wheels at both ends. The mudguard-mounted headlight is a stylistic tribute to the earliest Vespas. The two-place leather seat is split in two, and the instruments are simple and elegant. Vespa claims 29 km per litre. |
| Price |
$7,495 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
278 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
790 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
12/12 in |
| Weight |
146 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr unlimited km |
Vespa GTS 300IE / GTS 300IE Super / GTS Super Sport SE |
The $6,795 GTS 300IE is powered by the same 278 cc, liquid-cooled 4-valve single as the GTV, an engine that makes enough power for easy highway running. Features include front and rear disc brakes and electronic fuel injection. The GTS 300 IE Super, also $6,795, gets two-colour alloy rims and a racing red coil-over-spring front suspension. The $6,995 Super Sport SE wears a sporty seat, black satin finish, and race-inspired graphics. |
| Price |
$6,795/$6,995 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
278cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
790 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
12/12 in. |
| Weight |
148 kg |
| Warranty |
2 yr unlimited km |
Vespa 946 |
The Vespa 946 was called by the New York Times a “scooter for the wealthy,” and given its (approximately) $10,000 price, that’s not an overstatement. But you get what you pay for, and in the Vespa 946 you get Italian handmade quality and design, with dual disc brakes, ABS and traction control, a 150 cc 4-stroke 3-valve engine and a horizontally mounted, preload-adjustable rear shock. Lighting is full LED, and the body is made of sheet steel with aluminum components. |
| Price |
N/A |
| Engine |
Air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
150 cc |
| Fuel system |
EFI |
| Seat height |
N/A |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
12/12 in. |
| Weight |
N/A |
| Warranty |
2 yr unlimited km |
Yamaha BWs 50 / BWs 125 |
Yamaha’s BWs 50 returned in 2012 with a new, fuel-injected engine and revamped styling. This year it gets a price cut. Five-spoke, 10-inch mag wheels carry wide tires and a 23-litre underseat storage compartment (20 litres for the 125) can accommodate a backpack, laptop computer or “selected” helmets (translation: no fatheads). Its big brother BWs 125 continues into the 2014 model year with “aggressive rally sports styling.” |
| Price |
$2,699/$3,899 |
| Engine |
Liq-/air-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49/125 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
770/780 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
10/10, 12/12 in. |
| Weight |
93/122 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr unlimited km |
Yamaha Vino 50 |
Yamaha’s Vino 50 scooter is powered by a liquid-cooled, fuel injected, 4-stroke SOHC engine with three valves per cylinder. The engine’s design concept centres on peppy performance, low noise, low emissions and low fuel consumption. Aside from being Vespa-ish, the Vino’s retro styling is highlighted by the chrome headlight cover and rear rack. It’s got a 4.5-litre fuel tank, push-to-cancel turn signals and 10-inch wheels, with drum brakes bringing things to a stop. |
| Price |
$2,799 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49 cc |
| Fuel system |
EFI |
| Seat height |
715 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
10/10 in. |
| Weight |
76 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr unlimited km |
Yamaha Zuma X |
Yamaha introduces the all-new Zuma X for 2014. Based on the proven BWs 50 platform but jazzed up with sportier styling, the Zuma X uses the same 49 cc, liquid-cooled SOHC engine as its BW brother to produce peppy, easy to use power. It also gets great gas mileage, and its 4.5-litre fuel tank is located low for easy handling. The Zuma X features a small front storage pocket, while a 23-litre under seat storage compartment can hold larger items. A centrestand comes standard. |
| Price |
$2,899 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
49 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
770 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
10/10 in. |
| Weight |
93 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr unlimited km |
Yamaha Majesty 400 |
Yamaha’s Majesty competes with Suzuki’s Burgman 400 and BMW’s Maxi-Scooters. The DOHC four-valve single is tuned for good roll-on acceleration at highway speeds, and the underseat storage capacity, at 60 litres, is generous. Extra storage is found in two front console compartments, and the large windshield and bodywork are designed to provide maximum weather protection for rider and passenger. |
| Price |
$7,499 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4-stroke |
| Displacement |
395 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
760 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
14/13 in. |
| Weight |
212 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr unlimited km |
Yamaha TMAX 500 |
The TMAX is Yamaha’s biggest and most performance-oriented scooter. They say it blurs the line between scooter and motorcycle, and it’s already a hit in Europe. It utilizes a fuel-injected 530 cc twin-cylinder engine, aluminum frame, a 43 mm fork and 15-inch wheels. Front brakes are derived from Yamaha’s R6 sportbike: dual 267 mm front discs with monobloc calipers. Amenities include multiple storage compartments, dual digital tripmeters and a V-belt wear indicator warning light. |
| Price |
$10,499 |
| Engine |
Liq-cooled 4 stroke |
| Displacement |
530 cc |
| Fuel system |
Fuel injection |
| Seat height |
800 mm |
| Wheel sizes (f/r) |
15/15 in. |
| Weight |
218 kg |
| Warranty |
1 yr unlimited km |
