2003 Scarabeo 50 DiTech
Written: Jul 23 '02 (Updated Jul 29 '02)
|
Product Rating:
|
|
| Reliability: |
 |
|
| Comfort: |
 |
|
| Handling And Control: |
|
|
| Quality and Craftsmanship: |
|
|
|
Pros: Quick acceleration, stylish, stable at high speeds, great mileage
Cons: no kick start (2003), no helmet lock, accessories spendy.
The Bottom Line: A wonderfully crafted and environmentally friendly scooter with good acceleration and stable build.
|
|
|
| AriesG's Full Review: 2000 Aprilia Scarabeo 50/100 |
Since we seem to be running a bit behind on the models and years...
After spending a number of months researching scooters I ended up purchasing the new 2003 DiTech Scarabeo 50. I wanted a "green" machine with low fuel consumption, high mileage and very little emissions. If you're looking for something similar the DiTech models (both SR50 and Scarabeo's come in this version) may be right up your alley.
The 2003 models sport the new electronic direct injection technology (DiTech)and is air-cooled - this is the first 2-stroke scooter in the world to respect EURO 2 standards without a catalyzed exhaust. In order to keep emissions down the fuel is directly injected into the combustion chamber by an injector. The entire process is electronically controlled by means of sensors connected to an electronic control unit. Having an all-electronic sensored system means not having to think about ratio's and mixing fuel. Granted most modern scooters now aleviate having to manually mix fuel and oil. Aprilia states that you will roughly consume 40% less fuel and have 80% less emissions. Not a bad thing for those worried about the environment!
The new model also has a new reinforced frame. This means at higher speeds the bike remains stable. I've been able to cruise on the roadway without wobble or vibration. The larger wheel diameter also add to stability. Going over potholes is a breeze (although I don't make it a habit to hit every single one just for fun). The front fork has been modified to accept those bumps so that your bike remains stable and absorbs the shock for you. Disc brakes on the front and back of the bike help to make reliable and solid stops.
The automatic starter is super reliable even when cold. Naturally, you should either let your engine warm up prior to take-off or at least take the first part of your ride gradually to let the engine warm. The 2003 models do not sport the back-up kick start which I personally feel is a useful item - if anything, for peace of mind.
The fuel tank holds about 2.5 gal (8 Liters). Its a bit disconcerting to see the needle on the gas guage hit empty but it only calculates the first gallon - you have a 1.5 reserve tank. It doesn't hurt to top off the tank when it its the Refill line. You should be able to top off the oil tank once every 5 refills - maybe not even that much. I have been averaging between 85 to 120 miles per gallon. We have plenty of hills in our area so that accounts for the large gap between mileage comparison. Speaking of hills. I don't have a problem negotiating hills on this bike. With two people, however, the climb is a bit more gradual than I like but it handles it like a champ!
Some of the other little features - a backlit display which is nice and bright during the twilight hours, a gas guage, speedo (obviously), turn indicator lights, engine check lights. The halogen headlight is nice and bright and does a fantastic job of lighting up the road ahead of you. The highbeam is perfect for those darker regions. I am impressed by how audible the horn is. The engine kill switch is easily accessible in case you need to get out of a jam quickly. The Scarabeo's seem to be shipping with a top case (matches the paint job of your bike) and it has a seat back so that your passenger has something comfortable to lean against. A simple concept yet seems to elude many is the monokey concept. One key starts the bike, opens the glove box (yes, there's one of those too) and the top case.
The seat is large and well padded which makes for a comfortable ride. Even the passengers I've carried around say the ride is cushy and not at all cumbersome.
Apparently there are additional accessories that are available or will be available. The anti-theft options are okay. The steering column actually can be locked to prevent movement. A patented pin on the frame eleviates the need to weave a cable lock around and throught the bike wheels. You just attach the Aprilia brand cable/U-lock to the pin and secure it around a stationary object. The problem is that the lock itself is very spendy and because the cable is rather thick, the lock is also heavy. A standard long length u-lock has proven to be adequate to prevent someone from just walking away with your scooter.
Overall I have found that the bike performs wonderfully on straight-aways and maintains speed comfortably. Being able to feel like you're on a solid bike while going almost 50 is important. The bike handles well and it doesn't hurt that it looks good too. The style surpasses the "typical" scooter (outside of the retro's and classics). Offered colors are sure to fit anyone's personality. The classy feel is a bonus on top of the superb engine and design. If you get the chance - take one out for a test ride.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 2399
Condition: New
Model Year: 2002
|
|
|
|
Epinions.com ID:
AriesG
|
|
Member: Aries Galindo
Location: Seattle, WA
Reviews written: 51
Trusted by: 2 members
About Me:
Hardcore action figure collector with a love for hi-tech gadgets.
|
|
|
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2008 Shopping.com, Inc.