Scooters seem to be a reminiscent of the good old days. With the advent of motorbikes,which soon became the most preferred two-wheeler, scooters became a long forgotten commodity. However, the recent attempt by many manufacturers to revamp its image in order to make it trendier has given the scooter a new lease of life. Suddenly, we see a lot of the big names in the automobile sector re-launching the refurbished scooter in a completely different range. They are available in a variety of models characterized by the engine and the technical specs, price band, usefulness and the customer segment to which it appeals.
Here, we review the 7 best scooters in the 125 cc segment.
The Vespa ET4 is a scooter that suits you no matter what your style is and irrespective of what purpose you employ it for.
Vespa is one of the seven companies owned by Piaggio, the Italian automobile giant.They are Europe's largest manufacturer of two-wheeled vehicles and fourth largest motorcycle manufacturer of the world in terms of unit sales. The Vespa has evolved into this multi-national entity from a single model scooter manufactured by Piaggio in 1946.
Since their inception, Vespa scooters have been known allover the globe for their beautifully painted, pressed steel body. It provides complete cowling for the engine that encloses the engine and protects against dirt or grease. A flat floorboard that provides protection for the foot and a prominent front fairing which provides protection from wind are also characteristic of the structural unit.
The Vespa ET4 125 is a blend of classic elegance and pleasurable scooter experience. The ET4’s pristine lines and curves are certainly its hallmark along with the unmistakable style. The Vespa’s single cylinder four stroke engine delivers an impressive power of 16HP@8,800 rpm with a top speed of 95 kmph. It ensures that the ET4 doesn’t fall behind its competitors performance wise.
The jam busting ability of this scooter along with Honda’s trademark reliability and build quality put the SH leagues ahead of most other scooters.
Although, it may seem a little odd but the matter of fact is that the best selling scooter in Europe is Japanese. The roaring success of the SH125has given the Italians a lot of reasons to worry. The SH125 was given a massive facelift in 2009 and was re-launched as SH125i in the European markets. The changes were made mostly for cosmetic reasons rather than any performance related issues. The major changes include a rear disc brake in place of the old drum brakes. The new SH’s visage is far more aesthetic with better integrated curves. The rear bodywork has sophisticated and swooping lines that give the SH an air of superiority.
The exceptionally smooth single cylinder four stroke engine delivers a pretty strong performance with almost zero vibration. The automatic transmission’s automatic power delivery makes low-speed maneuvers such as U turns a whole lot easier as compared to some other scooters. The SH’s big 16inch wheels provide better stability and improved ride quality in comparison to the more trendier and smaller ones you get on other scooters.
This scooter, born out of advanced technology, gives a glimpse of the future of two wheeled vehicles.
Appropriate to its name, driving the Jet Force will give you the same sinking feeling which is more characteristic of jets. The Peugeot seems to be light years ahead in terms of technology to its counterparts. It may sound as exaggeration but it’s not often you come across a scooter that’s fitted with a supercharger. Peugeot haven’t put the supercharger just for namesake. They have been able to squeeze 50 percent more power and a torque from a normal gasoline engine without incurring serious penalties in the form of increased weight, throttle lag or dangerously high temperatures.
Peugeot’s use of the Direct Perimetric Frame (DPF) gives the Jet Force unparalleled rigidity with optimum weight distribution. It also possesses a central shock absorber and a fuel tank. The plus 13 inch wheels help to increase the stability and performance particularly at express speeds. The brakes are also sharp enough to guarantee complete confidence. The only negative aspect of this scooter is that it doesn’t perform as well under 7000rpm.
The fact that this highly affordable scooter is getting snapped at a fierce rate is ample proof of its worth.
The superbly agile 125 cc Lynx scooter looks brilliant and what lies under the hood is equally impressive. It has a secret reserve of power and performance that propels you to a top speed of 65 mph and squeezes up to 100 miles from every gallon of fuel you pour in it. This scooter is definitely not the one which can be tamed easily. It is giving the other 125 cc scooters a run for their money.
The four stroke engine in combination with fully automatic transmission and telescopic sports suspension gives superb performance and superior ride quality. The option of electric start as well as kick start only adds to the joy. The scooter’s aerodynamic sports styling is majorly responsible for the impressive number it churns out.
The Kinetic Flyte matches style as well as substance very stylishly which makes it a winner all the way.
The Flyte is designed in a very stylish manner keeping in mind the urban generation. The rear view mirrors are impact resistant which means they fold in case of an impact. The tail lamp is simple and stylishly attractive. The use of high quality plastics makes it superior quality wise. The seat is comfortably designed and the under-seat storage is around 22 liter which is LED illuminated.
The 125 cc engine delivers a power of 8 bhp @ 7000 rpm and maximum torque of 9.1 N-m @ 5500 rpm. This torque is apt for commuting in the city and makes handling quite easy. The Flyte attains maximum speed of 70 kmph effortlessly. The battery in the scooter is a powerful 9 Ah unlike other scooters that usually have a 5 Ah. The Flyte makes use of the Continuously Variable Transmission and gives a mileage of 40 kmpl.
The PCX is well engineered,carefully marketed and pleasing to ride but still reflects the dynamic nature of Honda.
The PCX's engine fires up instantly and the acceleration is mild but sufficient for most start stop scenarios. Once it reaches high enough speed,the scooter becomes more responsive to grip twisting. On full throttle you should expect to churn out around 50 mph. But what’s even more impressive is its maneuverability rather than its thrust. Though it visually resembles a maxi scooter (like Honda's high powered VFR1200F), handling is similar to a petite lightweight like the Yamaha Zuma 125.The responsive steering and suspension account for quick changes in direction.Brakes are equally effective and rear lockups hardly seem to occur. Ride quality is exceptionally smooth though pronounced bumps push the suspension travel to its extremes.
Unlike many other scooters, the Suzuki Access has got a metrosexual appeal to it which will make it a huge favorite among all classes of buyers.
The Suzuki Access 125cc is equipped with an air cooled and four stroke engine in addition to Continuously Variable Transmission. The 125cc engine delivers 8.58 bhp @ 7000 rpm and maximum torque10 N-m @ 5000 rpm. The engine features Extra Torque and Performance (XTP).Suzuki promises fuel efficiency of 60 kmpl from the Access 125cc.
The scooter’s design is typically Japanese with the indicators studded on the apron. The Access’ longer wheelbase gives it a more compact look. The paint used for vehicle is of superb quality making it one rust free scooter. Another great feature is the under seat storage of 20 liter capacity that can hold your helmet as well as daily grocery items. The scooter features modern telescopic front suspension with multi reflector headlamp. It also comes with the option of electric start and a fuel gauge and speedometer.