Distinct yet sporty? Check. Powerful yet stylish? Check. Faster than the competition? Check. When most companies were coming up with economy-minded commuters, Aprilia rolled up its sleeves to introduce something new that would redefine the scooter segment.

Meet the Aprilia SR 150 – a scooter that stays true to Aprilia’s supersports DNA and arguably the most stylish ‘sports’ scooter in the cluttered Nepalese market. Aprilia says the SR150 is designed for riders looking for the attitude of a sports bike and the convenience of an automatic scooter. So, does the Aprilia SR 150 offer the best of both worlds? We find out here

STYLING

The SR150 shares a family resemblance to its SR siblings. It is an impressive looking scooter with a design dominated by sharp lines, the type that really stands out from the competition. The aggressive, aerodynamic and compact design which Aprilia calls ‘Racer-Bike Styling’ has been inspired by that of the Italian manufacturer’s big bikes. The race-inspired bodywork looks like it would be more at home on highways than the local streets.

The beaky front apron gets a double-barrel headlight unit and a distinct, sporty handlebar with integrated turn indicator lights

The instrumentation console is a rather simple affair with a twin pod analogue unit with the speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer and indicators

The front storage compartment seen on most scooters has been removed which allows for a much roomier seating position even for taller riders

The scooter, however, has a bag hook that can be folded away when not in use under the head unit

If you are still short on space for your belongings, the SR150 also has an ample under seat storage with abuilt-in USB charger

On the rear end, the SR150 gets a split pillion grab handles, 14-inch wheels with wider sports street tyres and sporty tail lamps

ENGINE

The SR150 borrows the same 154.8 cc engine from the Vespa with similar output. However, Aprilia has slightly tweaked the engine to make it more responsive. The motor makes 10.4 bhp at 6750 RPM while delivering a peak torque of 11.4 Nm at 5000 RPM. Power is sent to the rear wheel via a CVT (Continuos Variable Transmission)

RIDE AND HANDLING

The Aprilia SR150 is faster than you’d expect. Press the thumb starter and the 154.8cc engine comes to life with a rattling note. Twist the throttle and the SR150 pulls quicker than you’d expect. The continuously variable transmission means there’s no shifting required, and the SR 150 reaches 80 kmph without any fuss compelling you to push even harder till 105 kmph comfortably. The SR150 really hits its tagline ‘Be a Racer’with a sporty demeanor when entering highways. You can ride it on the highway whereit is plenty fast. It can also carve a mean corner.

Navigating through traffic is surprisingly easy on the SR150. The scooter makes up for a preppy riding experience. You can maneuver through busy traffic with supreme ease. The SR150 was certainly a breeze to ride at low speeds, with an excellent turning radius and a pleasant power delivery. Overall, the scooter feels agile and confident to steer.

ERGONOMICS AND SUSPENSION

The ergonomics of the SR150 are quite comfortable for people of all shapes and sizes. The seat height for the SR150 is set at a slightly high 775 mm, for a relaxed riding posture. Although the seat is high, you will feel comfortable enough. There’s enough legroom and seat space for both the rider and pillion.

The Aprilia SR150’s single frame tubular chassis is suspended by a hydraulic double-telescopic fork at the front and twin hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear. The scooter’s 14-inch wheels combine with a traditional fork to deliver superb manoeuvrability and response for a scooter.

The rear monoshock soaks up bumps and undulations with ease. When pushed further, the SR150 responded quite admirably on all types of terrain.The scooter has a fuel tank capacity of 6.5 litres and gets wrapped around with 120/70 section tubeless tyres on both wheels.

Braking duties are handled by a 220mm ventilated front disc brake with twin-piston calipers & 140mm rear drum brake.

VERDICT

Is the SR150 the best of both worlds? In most aspects, yes. Surprising dynamics ,smooth and sporty handling, the Aprilia SR150 is a perfectly capable machine both on and off the highway. The performance is excellent, the handling is stable and the ride quality is supple.

From the moment you turn on the ignition, the SR 150’s acceleration, pick up, agility and braking will impress you to the core. The cherry on the top of the whole package is the attractive pricing. While the price tag of Rs 2, 39,900 is a little higher than many of its competitors, the SR150 is still a phenomenal package. The grin-factor should definitely convince you to get one.

For specifications and pricing, click here