The imminent launch of SR 150 by Piaggio’s Aprilia has inspired interest from a lot of petrolheads and prospective buyers. A Vespa dealership in Bengaluru was spotted showcasing the Aprilia SR Motard 125 scooter. The company is evidently trying to display the variety that they have. This is something that is intended to help them enter deeper in the Indian market.
The scooter was displayed at the 2016 Auto Expo and received a lot of appreciation because of its sleek body and powerful engine. Priced at Rs. 65,000, this vehicle has also taken the market by surprise, considering the segment that it is in.
The Aprilia SR 150 is powered by a 154.4cc one cylinder engine that will come coupled with an automatic transmission. The engine can produce a maximum power of 11.3 bhp clocking at 7,000 rpm.The peak torque is expected to be 11.5 Nm at 5,500 rpm.
The Aprilia SR 150 also has a 35mm telescopic fork at the front and the hydraulic twin shock absorbers at the rear for comfort. The 220mm disc brakes coupled with twin-piston caliper up front and big 240mm drum unit at the rear ensures smooth braking. The 120/70 – 14” tubeless tyres at either end offer convenience during times of a puncture. The 6-litre fuel tank ensures minimum halts on the go.
As mentioned earlier, the Aprilia SR 150 is set to be officially launched in the country later this year at an ex-showroom price of Rs. 65,000. The first round of production of the first lot of scooters had already begun in Baramati (where the company’s production facility is located) a few days back. Some dealerships including the ones that have Vespa outlets have started taking the bookings.
The new and sleek designed body will be up against stiff competition from the likes of well established Honda and Bajaj in India. The Honda Activa 125 that is priced marginally lower than the SR150 has a well-established market and good brand name in the country. The success of this one almost completely depends on the value for money. Performance factors such as handling and mileage shall prove to be pivotal. The availability in petrol isn’t a negative factor in any way.
Known well all over the world for their retro-designed scooters are much welcomed with their second brand in India. Whether or not they do well, is only for time to tell.
