Sporty scooters first appeared in the 1990s, with the Aprilia SR50 bringing 13 inch wheels, double disc brakes and a liquid cooled direct injection engine. And the Italian firm are hoping for similar success with the new 2021 Aprilia SXR 50, focusing on functionality and comfort.
The idea is that you get the features of a larger scooter, but with the low cost and accessibility of a Euro 5 compliant 50cc single-cylinder scooter. It’s a similar idea to 50cc and 125cc bikes looking increasing like larger capacity machines. And it should suit older riders looking for something small and fuel efficient to commute into work on just a CBT license, but who also want a scooter which looks more grown-up and practical.
This means you get an dual LED headlight unit with a third element in the middle to look a bit like the triple lights on Aprilia sportsbikes. And you also get a large fairing and leg shields with a raised handlebar and screen to provide a comfortable upright riding position, and give the look of a larger GT scooter.
You also get full digital LCD instruments including a speedo, rev counter, odometer, ait temp, fuel level and a clock to make sure you get to work or college on time. And the SXR 50 is also the first 50cc scooter to let you connect your phone via Bluetooth, using the Aprilia MIA connectivity system.
As a practical urban scooter, the SXR 50 seat is 850mm long to give you plenty of room for a pilliion, and a 20 litre compartment underneath. And there’s more luggage space with a rack, glove box with USB charging port, and room on the flat floorboard for some shopping.
You might not win any races on the drag strip, but the four stroke single cylinder engine with 3-valve timing is focused on reliability and economy, offering more than 40km on 1 litre of fuel. And the injection system should mean you can get away from the lights for city riding, along with 12″ alloy five spoke wheels fitted with 120/70 tyres for grip, and braking from a 220mm front disc and 140mm rear drum set-up.
The rear shock has five position adjustment, so you can adjust it to carrying a pillion or heavy shopping.
And for those with more money to spend, there are some useful official accessories, including a 32-litre top box, back rest, larger windscreen, non-slip rubber mat for the footboard, and a side stand.
The new 2021 Aprilia SXR 50 is available in four colours, with the more subtle Essence White or Instinctive Grey, and the sportier Power Red and matte Enigma Black.
Check out everything we’ve featured from Aprilia, from scooters to sportsbikes, here. Or take a look at all the scooters we’ve featured, here, along with everything which is ‘learner legal’ here. And if you’re looking for secondhand 50cc Aprilias, there’s always a selection for sale via eBay.
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