Piaggio is reportedly working on expanding its product portfolio in the Indian market with the launch of a 160 cc maxi-scooter. A report from Bikewale suggests that the all-new scooter is in the final stages of development and would be launched under the Aprilia brand by early next year. Given the timeline, we expect to see the scooter at the 2020 Auto Expo.
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The decision to develop a maxi-scooter for the Indian market was taken after the success of the Suzuki Burgman Street. The report claims that the scooter has been developed in Italy and the company has received input from Indian engineers in the development process.
The scooter would draw styling cues from Piaggio’s MP3 range. Thus, the upcoming 160 cc maxi-scooter could arrive with apron mounted twin-pod headlight – most likely full LED units – for superior illumination at night, and a tall windscreen for better protection against windblasts. The footboard would be designed in such a way that the rider has sufficient space to stretch his legs for better comfort.
The saddle could feature a step-up design that would give the rider extra cushioning at the back. The underseat storage is likely to be large enough to store a full-face helmet or enough luggage for a weekend ride. The upcoming maxi-scooter, similar to Aprilia’s SR150, could ride on 14-inch alloy wheels. Telescopic forks at the front and an adjustable single-sided spring at the back would most likely perform shock absorption tasks.
The report does suggest that 90 per cent of the styling work has been done considering the Indian market and thus we expect to see muscular looks on the maxi-scooter.
Mechanical specifications would be shared with the SR150, and the maxi-scooter would draw power from a 155cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. However, unlike the current SR150’s motor, the powertrain on the maxi-scooter would be BS-VI compliant. For reference, the Aprilia SR150 draws 10.25 bhp of power and 11.4 Nm of torque from the 155cc mill.
Also read: Suzuki Burgman Street taking some customers away from the Access 125
The maxi-scooter would be pitched as a premium product although Piaggio would not want to push the prices above the INR 90,000 (ex-showroom) levels. There would be no direct rival for the scooter although it could face some rivalry from the Suzuki Burgman Street.
[Source: Bikewale.com]
