Tanshanomi's Snap Judgments

Aprilia Scarabeo 100

Wed, March 24th, 2010

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Featuring a different motor scooter each day.

1994-2010 Aprilia Scarabeo 100 4T
This gets three points despite its low power because I've rated it against what it is expected to do, and the machines it competes against. Not everybody needs — or even wants — to take their scooter out on the Interstate. Many people only want a small, convenient two wheeler to make quick, in-town jaunts. The fan-cooled 4-stroke in the Scarabeo 100 is no great powerhouse, but it is much better option than the many anemic 50cc scooters and mopeds that many people opt for, without being much heavier or more expensive.
Given the 4T's meager top speed, the chassis is overdesigned. The large-diameter wheels offer better handling and smoother ride than the little doughnuts scooters are usually equipped with.
It looks suitably Italian, though a bit over-styled. And definitely girlie, which isn't a drawback if you're a girl and you like that sort of thing...or a guy who likes that sort of thing, I suppose.
Some may be disappointed by its Asian assembly, but the Scarabeo 100 is well built, and unlike big Aprilia bikes, you will probably always be stick near enough to the dealer you bought it from for service.
For neighborhood scoots, it's a 5. For anything beyond that, it's a zero.
It would make a cool third bike.
A great way to pick up bread at 7-Eleven, with some extra style to boot.