Aprilia Scarabeo 125 Review

Aprilia Scarabeo 125 Review

Scooter Review

Scarabeo 125 Review

We've now covered 1000km's on the long term Scarabeo 125 from Aprilia so now it's time for a closer look. Lets hope I don't have to give it back any time soon!

Scootersales.com.au

Scootersales.com.au says

The Scarabeo 125 from Aprilia is an efficient 125 cc scooter capable of doing most things very well. It's performance is outstanding on the open road and it will make an ideal commuter or weekend runabout.

As outlined in the video there is a ton to like about the Aprilia Scarabeo 125 and whilst it's not entry level the quality is apparent from the first time you take the riders seat.

RATING /10

Handling 8
Performance 8
Quality of Finish 8
Storage Options 6
Dash / Gauges 8
Seating 6
Maintenance 9
Function of Parts 8
Technology , EFI , LC 9
Value for Money 7

Total  77/100

2nd Opinions from the Scootersales.com.au Network

Murray Walters - Scooter Central Brookvale Sydney

It is often said that the Italians make products with passion, and this is perfectly evident with the new Aprilia Scarebeo 125.  Of course the Scarebeo family of scoots has a long tradition as the big wheel scooter of choice in Europe with its previous 50cc, 200cc, 250cc, 250ie, 500ie models here in Australia.  On my first ride of the new smaller and lighter 125 version late in 2008, I was glad to see that the tradition of big wheels, twin rear shock absorbers and windscreen was continued with the new model.  I also liked the chic, yet contemporary styling as it retained much of the Scarebeo family features.

For my 185cm and 85kg, the cockpit space was very good, and even with bag of groceries on the seat mounted shopping bag hook, there was plenty of legroom. The mirrors are large and wide set giving excellent vision, but the seat I felt was quite firm could be a little more padded for my 44 year old rear.  The finish of the scoot is very good, and the dash is stylish and includes a 'mode' function to scroll through ambient air temp, battery voltage and alike.  On the engine front, I found the water cooled engine to be a little quieter than many air cooled scoots, and the power delivery was smooth and linear.  This makes this scoot a good choice for new riders, as the motor doesn't give you any real rush of power, instead just glides you along without any surprises.

So for me, I give the Scarebeo 125 the thumbs up.  It handled very well, as does the entire Scarebeo range, and the big wheels made light work of Sydney bumpiest roads.  For me, I think this was the feature that I noticed and appreciated the most.  On the downside was the typically small underseat storage (which is compensated with a very strong rear rack, that is just calling out for a topbox) and the firm seat. All in all, this scoot is priced right in between entry level and premium prices, so its well worth a closer inspection next time you're at an Aprilia stockist.

RATING /10

Handling 9
Performance 8
Quality of Finish 8
Storage Options 7
Dash / Gauges 8
Seating 6
Maintenance 9
Function of Parts 8
Technology , EFI , LC 9
Value for Money 8

Total  80/100

Brendon Watson - Scooter HQ Southport Gold Coast

I'm running the identical but larger engined Scarabeo 200 at the moment, packed with the latest technology including one of the sweetest engines in Scooters. The new 125cc double overhead cam, 4 valve, liquid cooled engine produces more power (11.2kw) than most 200 class scooters & this is reflected in its on road performance.

Dynamically the Scarabeo is able to carve urban traffic with ease, big wheeled stability with a suspension & brake package that provides the rider with total confidence in even the most trying conditions.

Likes - Bang for buck, the 125cc Scarabeo performs like a 200cc scooter & the 200cc version performs like a 250cc. Handling (brakes & suspension) provide a great ride & is surprisingly capable when pushed. Huge brakes compliment the package perfectly.

The new benchmark Scooter of this class.

Dislikes - Under seat storage could be better, resolved with a top box.

RATING / 10

Handling                       9
Performance                10
Quality of Finish          8.5
Storage Options            6
Dash / Gauges              9
Seating                          9
Maintenance                  9
Function of Parts           9
Technology , EFI , LC    9
Value for Money            9

Total     96.5 /100

Graham Marston - Scooters Scooters, Fortitude Valley Brisbane

A scooter becomes a whole lot more than just a means of getting from A to B when it has the Scarabeo badge attached to it. This beautifully sculpted 125 from the Aprilia factory is a commuting gem, coping superbly with the tight urban thrall of everyday traffic. It has a balanced feel on the road, with the 15 horsepower 4 stroke delivering decisive response in confined city situations.

Whisper quiet power from the liquid cooled single cylinder engine is unobtrusive and very clean, of course complying with the tough Euro 3 emission laws. Its a very comfortable ride too, the seat offering a softer, plusher ride than most in its class; this coupled with the well engineered suspension means you arrive at your destination unflustered and relaxed.

I found the ride position to be very purposeful too, prompting me to sit more upright and become more involved with the Scarabeo's movements. The small screen also offered just the right amount of wind deflection too, a nice touch, shielding the dash as well as the rider from the elements. The Scarabeo's draw card is its wheel size; the handling is great, vibration through the chassis is also left to a minimum as a result. Under seat storage is compromised though, but this isn't a maxi class scooter; for a 125 everyday ride I'd opt for great road manners over extra huge storage any day.

Don't  forget Aprilia has an option for a top box and rack so extra storage is available .The undeniable euro styled bodywork  sets the Scarabeo apart, it has an Italian elegance all of its own. Body panels are fitted well too, no cheap gaps or over excessive nuts and bolts. The cockpit is well laid out, the instruments clear and concise with a digital analogue combination that tells you everything at a glance.

As with all Aprillia scooters, its well lit, too. For safety I liked the tall positioning of the headlight, the beam confidence-inspiring at night; I always like a light that moves when the handle bars do.  The radius of light is also excellent. So for me the Scarabeo 125 is more than just everyday transportation, it has chic character, undeniably Italian style, as well as great road presence and poise. It's engineered more for the ride, and you can't ask much more than that .Catch you on the road.

In summary then I liked the overall build quality and the classic but still very modern design,its authentically stylish.As mentioned earlier its road handling is excellent.On the flip side leg room is a bit on the small side,prompting a more upright riding stance,the underseat storage is also compromised because of the larger wheel size.Apart from this the overall package is good,ideal for a daily commuter or weekend runabout.

          RATING /10

Handling: 9
Performance: 7
Quality of finish: 7
Storage options: 6
Dash gauges: 8
Seating: 8
Maintenance: 8
Function of parts: 8
Technology LC/EFI: 9
Value for money: 8

Overall: 78/100.

published 21/01/2009

Aprilia Scarabeo 125 Review

Source: http://www.scootersales.com.au/news-reviews-2305/scarabeo-125-review.aspx

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