Aprilia SR 150, Track Test

There was a lot of expectation and scepticism surrounding the Aprilia SR 150. Many prayed and hoped that the iconic Italian two-wheeler manufacturer wouldn’t pull a fast one by doing a nip-and-tuck job of its sibling, the Vespa 150.

We had mentioned in our recent review that the SR 150 is a completely different machine thanks to a change in the chassis and gear ratios. Though it’s the same motor that powers the Vespa 150, but twist the throttle and it takes off in an instant. You can feel that both the CVT transmission and the 154.4cc are in sync, as the SR 150 quickly goes past 80km/h and keeps sprinting ahead without showing any signs of slowing down.

Unlike the Vespa’s monocoque chassis, the Aprilia gets the more conventional under-bone chassis – which makes it roughly 2 kilograms lighter. For a scooter, it leads the way in the handling department thanks to a stiffer suspension set up. It can be easily flicked around in the corners and what makes it a treat to ride is that the SR 150 remains stable and well balanced. The ride quality of the Aprilia suffers a bit if you come across broken roads – especially for the pillion, but nothing too unnerving.

The Aprilia SR 150 certainly looks gorgeous, as it exudes Italian pomp and flair. The plastic quality could have been better, but then it is built to a budget. The 220mm front disc and 140mm drum brakes are very effective. The SR 150 doesn’t come with a USB charging port like other scooters in its range, and the under seat storage can at best house a half face helmet – which is disappointing. At Rs. 65,000 (Ex-showroom, Delhi), the SR 150 is a steal. Sure it has its shortcomings, but no other scooter, at the moment, can match it in terms of performance. Sadly, we couldn’t lap it at Buddh International Circuit – and so it lost precious points in that parameter.

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