Aprilia Scarabeo 50 4T (2007-2009) Review: A Pint-Sized Urban Companion With Italian Flair

Introduction

The Aprilia Scarabeo 50 4T represents a fascinating chapter in urban mobility - a 50cc scooter that prioritizes style and practicality without compromising its Italian DNA. Designed for riders seeking an economical yet characterful city runabout, this Scarabeo generation (2007-2009) balances Aprilia's racing heritage with commuter-friendly ergonomics. Over a week of testing through tight city streets and suburban sprawl, I discovered why this compact machine developed such a cult following among urban riders who refuse to settle for bland transportation.

Design & Build Quality

Aprilia never does ordinary, and the Scarabeo 50 4T proves even a utilitarian scooter can have design panache. The bodywork features flowing lines that recall larger Aprilia sport bikes, with a distinctive twin-headlight front end that gives it road presence disproportionate to its size. The 700mm (27.5") seat height strikes a perfect balance - low enough for easy footing at stops yet tall enough to prevent a cramped riding position.

Build quality feels premium for the category, with thick plastic panels that don't creak under pressure and a steel frame that shrugs off pothole impacts. The analog-digital dashboard is a standout feature, offering clear readouts for speed, fuel level, and trip data. Practical touches include a generous under-seat storage compartment that swallows a full-face helmet and a sturdy rear rack ready for aftermarket top cases.

Ergonomics & Comfort

The Scarabeo's riding position exemplifies urban ergonomics. Wide handlebars provide leverage for tight maneuvers, while the floorboard offers multiple foot positions during long rides. The seat deserves special praise - its dual-density foam remains comfortable even after hour-long commutes, a rarity in the 50cc class.

At 100kg (220 lbs) wet weight, the Scarabeo feels substantial enough to inspire confidence at speed yet remains light enough to paddle through parking lots. The narrow 28mm fork tubes (1.1") and short 1,320mm (52") wheelbase create remarkable agility - I could effortlessly thread through stalled traffic gaps that would give bicycle riders pause.

Performance & Handling

Engine Character

Powered by a 49.9cc air-cooled 4-stroke single, the Scarabeo 50 4T produces 2.8kW (3.8hp) - figures that undersell its real-world usability. The CVT transmission delivers smooth acceleration off the line, reaching its 45 km/h (28 mph) restricted top speed without drama. Derestricted versions (where legal) can touch 60 km/h (37 mph), transforming it into a viable option for brief highway stints.

What impresses most is the engine's flexibility. The 1800±100 rpm idle remains rock-steady in traffic, while the 5W-40 oil recommendation (0.85L/0.9 qt with filter) hints at robust lubrication for a motor that thrives on short urban bursts. Fuel consumption is miserly - the 7L (1.85 gal) tank regularly delivered 200+ km (124+ mi) between fills during testing.

Suspension & Brakes

The 28mm telescopic fork and twin rear shocks handle urban imperfections with composure. While not adjustable, the factory-tuned damping absorbs everything from cobblestones to bridge expansion joints without bottoming out. Braking comes via a 190mm front disc and 110mm rear drum - more than adequate for the scooter's weight class. The DOT 4 fluid recommendation suggests a system designed to handle repeated hard use without fade.

Tire Performance

Running 1.9 bar (28 psi) front and 2.2-2.3 bar (32-33 psi) rear pressures as specified, the Scarabeo displays neutral handling traits. The stock tires provide surprising grip in wet conditions, though upgrading to premium rubber (available at MOTOPARTS.store) significantly enhances cornering confidence.

Competition

In the premium 50cc scooter segment, the Scarabeo 50 4T faced stiff competition:

1. Honda Zoomer - More minimalist design but lacking weather protection
2. Yamaha Aerox 50 - Sportier focus with liquid-cooled engine but harsher ride
3. Piaggio Typhoon 50 - Similar Italian flair but cheaper suspension components

Where the Aprilia shines is in delivering near-maxi-scooter comfort in a 50cc package. The air-cooled engine may lack the peak power of liquid-cooled rivals, but its simplicity means lower maintenance costs - a key advantage for daily riders. The Scarabeo's 75W-90 gear oil (100ml/3.4 oz changes) is significantly easier to service than competitors requiring special transmission fluids.

Maintenance

The Scarabeo 50 4T rewards owners who follow scheduled maintenance:

Critical Service Items

1. Engine Oil - Use JASO MA2-certified 5W-40 oil. MOTOPARTS.store recommends changing every 2,000 km (1,240 mi) with filter
2. Spark Plug - NGK PMR7A gap at 0.7mm (0.028"). Check every 5,000 km (3,100 mi)
3. Brake Fluid - Flush DOT 4 annually to maintain lever feel
4. Cooling System - Despite being air-cooled, regularly clean the flywheel cooling fins

Common Wear Parts

• Drive belt: Replace every 10,000 km (6,200 mi)
• Variator rollers: Upgrade to aftermarket weights for smoother acceleration
• Brake pads: MOTOPARTS.store stocks low-dust organic compounds

Pro Tips

• Use GL4/5 75W-90 gear oil for smoother shifts
• Lubricate the center stand pivot monthly
• Install a fuel stabilizer during winter storage

Customization Potential

The Scarabeo's simple mechanics make it a modder's delight:

1. Performance - 70cc big-bore kits (where legal) transform acceleration
2. Comfort - Upgrade to adjustable rear shocks
3. Style - Aprilia offers OEM color-matched top cases
4. Lighting - LED conversion kits dramatically improve visibility

MOTOPARTS.store carries period-correct accessories including Aprilia-branded windshields and premium seat covers.

Long-Term Ownership

After interviewing multiple owners, key insights emerge:

• Durability: Properly maintained examples regularly exceed 30,000 km (18,600 mi)
• Common Issues:
• Sticking brake calipers (prevent with annual lubrication)
• Cracked intake manifolds (upgrade to silicone aftermarket units)

• Fading decals (replace with OEM-style graphics from MOTOPARTS.store)

• Resale Value: Well-kept Scarabeos command 20-30% premiums over Japanese rivals

Conclusion

The Aprilia Scarabeo 50 4T (2007-2009) redefines what a 50cc scooter can be - it's not just transportation, but a statement of style and intelligent design. While no speed demon, its combination of Italian flair, robust construction, and low running costs make it ideal for urban warriors seeking an economical ride with personality.

For current owners, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from OEM replacement parts to performance upgrades. Whether you're maintaining a pristine original or building a custom urban sled, this Scarabeo generation remains a compelling platform that continues to turn heads on city streets worldwide.

---

Specifications sheet

---