What should the ideal city scooter be like? We say agile, zippy, compact and practical. And we found all these qualities in our test of the Aprilia Scarabeo 200 ie. It is one of those scooters you can fall in love with straight away for its elengance and performance, which is truly spectacular for city riding. It’s part of the new Aprilia Scarabeo scooter range.

Compared to the previous model, it has a new look and direct injection, and the style is appreciated when you sit comfortably on the seat. The Scarabeo is the perfect size and everything is under control, especially given the well-designed instrument panel with its analogue-digital features.

A button on the handles allows you to scroll through the LCD functions, including the external temperature (with emergency ice warning) and battery charge. The plexiglas screen doesn’t give off any annoying reflections and is easy to read.

The Scarabeo 200 ie flat platform for the feet is fabulous, and the under seat storage is normal for a high-wheel scooter. The four-stroke four-valve engine is responsive, switching on with no problems and maintaining itself impeccably. There is plenty of power with 19.5 hp at 8,000 rpm being enough to leave you feeling satisfied, and the acceleration is superior to what you would normally expect.

The other novelty about this engine is the possibility of choosing between two modes: ECO, reducing consumption by seven percent, and the more dynamic Sport mode. We tested the Scarabeo in the city, meaning some limitations on speed and acceleration, and so we didn’t notice a big difference between the two. An urban course out of the city centre taking in a few ring roads, might prove the decider.

The Scarabeo 200 ie can be really appreciated for its agility and stability, with a precise riding style. The wheels measure 16-inches and the fork 35mm. The brakes are particularly impressive at 260 mm and 220 mm with integrated braking, although the brake handles need to be softer.

Overall, the new Scarabeo is an excellent compromise between size and performance. It’s large enough to tackle chaotic city traffic, but has the right mix of power and handling too. This version is sold on the Italian market at 2,990 euros in silver, white, light and dark blue, and black. Accessories include windshield, side trestle, rear storage box, leg cover and tunnel bag.

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