Aprilia Leonardo 125 ST [1996-2005]: The Sporty Urban Companion That Aged Gracefully

Introduction

The Aprilia Leonardo 125 ST occupies a unique space in scooter history – a machine that blended Italian flair with practical commuting long before "maxi-scooters" became mainstream. Produced from 1996 to 2005, this generation combined Aprilia's racing DNA with everyday usability, creating a two-wheeler that still turns heads in 2024 traffic. After spending a week with a meticulously maintained 2003 model, it's clear why this scooter developed a cult following across Europe and beyond.

Design & Styling: Where Function Meets Flamboyance

The Leonardo 125 ST immediately stands out from cookie-cutter commuter scooters. Its angular bodywork and dual headlight setup give it a muscular stance, while the integrated front spoiler and sport windshield hint at Aprilia's motorcycle racing pedigree. The 12" alloy wheels (130/70 front, 140/70 rear) strike a perfect balance between stability and agility, wrapped in low-profile tires that still look contemporary.

Practical touches abound:
- Integrated leg shield blocks wind and road spray better than modern equivalents
- Chrome-accented multifocal headlight provides exceptional nighttime visibility
- Dark lens tail cluster (ahead of its time) gives a sleek, unified appearance

The dashboard deserves special mention – an analog/digital hybrid with sportbike-inspired fonts that remains legible in direct sunlight. Our test unit's blue-on-silver color scheme (with Aprilia's signature racing stripes) looked fresh enough to be mistaken for a 2020s model.

Performance: Small Displacement, Big Personality

Engine & Transmission

The liquid-cooled 124.9cc single-cylinder engine (62x50mm bore/stroke) feels surprisingly eager for a 125cc scooter. With 12 HP @ 8,800 RPM and 12 Nm torque, acceleration is linear rather than explosive, but the real magic lies in its flexibility. The automatic CVT transmission eliminates gear hunting – just twist and go from 0 to its governed top speed of 127 km/h (79 mph).

Key characteristics:
- Euro 2 compliance (impressive for its era) means cleaner operation
- Liquid cooling prevents power fade in stop-and-go traffic
- TEI Kei carburetor delivers crisp throttle response once warmed up

During mixed riding (urban + country roads), we observed fuel consumption of 35-40 km/l (82-94 mpg), translating to 330-370 km (205-230 miles) from the 9.3L tank. The 1.5L reserve is generous enough to find fuel without panic.

Chassis & Handling

The steel twin-cradle frame provides remarkable stability for a 150 kg (331 lbs) dry weight machine. Aprilia's suspension setup shines here:
- 35mm telescopic fork (90mm travel) absorbs potholes without wallowing
- Adjustable rear shocks (5 preload settings) handle passengers with ease
- 12" wheels offer quick steering without twitchiness

Pushing through winding roads reveals planted behavior, with the 140mm rear tire providing confidence mid-corner. Braking is competent rather than stellar – the 220mm front/190mm rear discs require a firm squeeze at higher speeds, but ABS wasn't expected in this era.

Comfort & Practicality: The Daily Grind Made Enjoyable

Ergonomics

The 830mm seat height accommodates riders from 160cm (5'3") upwards, with a sculpted seat that supports longer rides. The floorboard offers multiple foot positions, and the curved handlebars create a natural upright posture. Two-up riding is genuinely viable, thanks to:
- Wide passenger seat with integrated grab rail
- 1320mm wheelbase maintaining stability
- Adjustable rear shocks compensating for added weight

Storage & Features

Aprilia nailed the practical details:
- Under-seat storage fits a full-face helmet + gloves
- Rugged rear rack supports top cases (still available aftermarket)
- 9.3L fuel tank (massive for a 125cc) enables weekly commutes

The 12V socket (a rarity in 2003) remains useful for phone charging, while the comprehensive dash includes fuel gauge, clock, and temperature warning lights.

Competition: How It Stacks Up Against Rivals

Compared to contemporaries like the Honda SH125 (air-cooled) or Yamaha Majesty 125 (heavier, more touring-focused), the Leonardo 125 ST carved its niche:

| Aspect | Aprilia Leonardo 125 ST | Honda SH125 | Yamaha Majesty 125 | |---------------------|-------------------------|-------------------|---------------------| | Engine Cooling | Liquid | Air | Liquid | | Power | 12 HP | 11 HP | 14 HP | | Suspension Adjustability | Rear preload | None | None | | Storage Capacity | 35L under seat | 28L under seat | 48L under seat | | Curb Weight | 150 kg | 136 kg | 165 kg |

While the Yamaha offered more power and storage, the Aprilia's sporty handling and premium feel justified its position. Modern competitors like the Kymco X-Town 125 or SYM Jet 14 125 inherit the Leonardo's formula but lack its character.

Maintenance: Keeping Your Leonardo in Prime Condition

As MOTOPARTS.store specialists, we recommend these key maintenance points:

1. Engine Care

• Oil Changes: Every 3,000 km (1,864 miles) using 1.1L of SAE 5W-40 (API SG/JASO MA)
• Valve Clearances: Check every 6,000 km (3,728 miles)
• Intake: 0.05-0.09mm (0.002-0.0035")
• Exhaust: 0.10-0.14mm (0.0039-0.0055")
• Cooling System: Replace coolant every 2 years (1.2L of ethylene glycol mix)

2. Drivetrain

• V-Belt: Inspect every 12,000 km (7,456 miles)
• Final Drive Oil: 90ml SAE 75W-90 GL-4 (change annually)

3. Brakes & Tires

• Front Brake Pads: 4-5mm minimum thickness
• Tire Pressures:
• Solo: 1.9 bar front (28 psi), 2.0 bar rear (29 psi)
• Two-up: 2.0 bar front (29 psi), 2.2 bar rear (32 psi)

4. Electrical

• Battery: 12V 12Ah – trickle-charge monthly if stored
• Spark Plugs: NGK CR8E (standard) or CR8EIX (iridium upgrade) gap at 0.7mm

Common upgrades our customers choose:
- Malossi Multivar 2000 CVT Kit for smoother acceleration
- Brembo SA08 Brake Pads for improved stopping
- Givi E300NT Top Case (fits original rack)

Conclusion: Timeless Charm Meets Modern Relevance

Twenty years haven't dimmed the Leonardo 125 ST's appeal. Its blend of sporty aesthetics, robust engineering, and everyday usability makes it a compelling choice for:
- Urban commuters prioritizing style
- New riders seeking approachable performance
- Vintage enthusiasts wanting reliability

While newer scooters offer tech like LED lighting or smartphone connectivity, the Aprilia's mechanical simplicity and timeless design ensure easy maintenance and enduring road presence. For owners looking to refresh their Leonardo, MOTOPARTS.store carries everything from OEM-spec brake pads to performance exhausts – proof that good design never truly goes out of production.

Whether you're maintaining a classic or customizing a survivor, the Aprilia Leonardo 125 ST remains a canvas for personal expression – just as Aprilia intended.

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Specifications sheet

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