Aprilia Scarabeo 125ie [2012-2015] Review: A Timeless Urban Companion

Introduction

The Aprilia Scarabeo 125ie represents a fascinating blend of Italian flair and pragmatic urban mobility. Produced between 2012 and 2015, this scooter generation has carved its niche as a stylish yet practical machine for city dwellers. With its retro-modern design, peppy 125cc engine, and user-friendly features, the Scarabeo isn’t just transportation – it’s a statement. After spending time with this scooter, it’s clear why it remains a sought-after option in the used market today. Let’s dissect what makes this two-wheeler tick.

---

Design & Build Quality

Aprilia nailed the "timeless" brief with the Scarabeo 125ie. The design borrows cues from classic Vespas – rounded headlights, clean body panels, and chrome accents – but adds modern touches like angular turn signals and a sculpted seat. The 2025 mm (79.7") length and 725 mm (28.5") width make it compact enough for filtering through traffic yet substantial enough to avoid feeling toy-like.

The tubular steel frame feels robust, supporting the 154 kg (340 lbs) dry weight with confidence. Fit-and-finish is typically Italian: beautiful welded joints and glossy paint (available in six vibrant colors), though some plastic panels can develop creaks over time. The 810 mm (31.9") seat height accommodates most riders, while the flat floorboard offers grocery-bag practicality.

A standout feature is the 16-inch wheels – larger than most scooters’ 12-14” units. Shod with 100/80-16 front and 120/80-16 rear tires, they contribute to surprising stability over potholes and tram tracks. The analog-digital dash (added in later models) provides clear readouts, though the lack of a fuel gauge – replaced by a warning light – requires some acclimation.

---

Engine & Performance

At the heart beats a liquid-cooled 124cc single-cylinder four-stroke, producing 19.7 HP (14.4 kW) at 10,000 RPM and 11 Nm (8.1 lb-ft) at 8,000 RPM. These numbers might seem modest, but in the 125cc scooter realm, they’re competitive. The DOHC configuration and EFI system ensure crisp throttle response, while the Euro 3-compliant emissions keep it eco-friendly.

Key performance takeaways:
- Acceleration: 0-50 km/h (0-31 mph) in 5.8 seconds – brisk enough for urban cut-and-thrust
- Top Speed: A governed 95 km/h (59 mph), though 85-90 km/h (53-56 mph) is more realistic uphill
- Fuel Efficiency: 35-40 km/l (82-94 mpg) under gentle riding, dropping to 30 km/l (70 mpg) when pushed

The automatic CVT transmission is butter-smooth, with none of the rubber-band effect plaguing cheaper scooters. Belt final drive maintenance is minimal, though replacement every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) is advisable. Liquid cooling ensures consistent performance even in summer gridlock – a notable advantage over air-cooled rivals.

---

Ride Experience

Swing a leg over the Scarabeo, and the ergonomics immediately impress. The seat’s gentle curve supports both short hops and hour-long commutes, while the slightly forward-set footpegs encourage an active riding posture. The handlebars fall naturally to hand, with intuitive switchgear.

Around town, the Scarabeo shines. The 1380 mm (54.3") wheelbase and 16-inch wheels make for planted cornering, while the 100 mm (3.9") front / 90 mm (3.5") rear suspension travel absorb bumps competently. Braking is confident thanks to the 260 mm front and 220 mm rear discs – no linked system, but the combined braking effect is progressive.

At highway speeds, the Scarabeo feels composed up to 80 km/h (50 mph), though crosswinds can buffet the tall-ish profile. Vibration is minimal – a testament to the engine’s counterbalancer – and the small windscreen (2015 model) deflects enough airflow to reduce fatigue. Storage is decent under the seat (fits a full-face helmet in later models), though adding a top case is wise for serious hauling.

---

Competition

The Scarabeo 125ie competed in a crowded segment. Here’s how it stacks up:

1. Honda SH125i
2. Pros: Legendary reliability, 16-inch wheels, 16.5 HP
3. Cons: Bland styling, higher seat (799 mm vs 810 mm)

4. Verdict: The Scarabeo trades some practicality for panache

5. Yamaha NMAX 125

6. Pros: More storage, 15-liter fuel tank, 12.4 HP
7. Cons: Smaller 13-inch wheels, softer suspension

8. Verdict: The Yamaha prioritizes comfort; Aprilia favors engagement

9. Vespa Primavera 125

10. Pros: Iconic design, steel unibody, 11.4 HP
11. Cons: Heavier (122 kg vs 154 kg), pricier
12. Verdict: The Scarabeo offers 90% of Vespa charm at 70% cost

The Aprilia’s USP remains its balance of style and substance. While not the most powerful or utilitarian, it’s arguably the most emotionally resonant choice in its class.

---

Maintenance

Ownership costs are reasonable, but vigilance pays dividends:

1. Engine Care
2. Oil changes every 5,000 km (3,100 miles) with 10W-40 semi-synthetic
3. Coolant replacement every 2 years/20,000 km (12,400 miles)

4. MOTOPARTS.store recommends: HiFlo HF138 oil filter ($9.99)

5. Transmission

6. Inspect drive belt every 10,000 km (6,200 miles)
7. Replace variator rollers if acceleration feels sluggish

8. MOTOPARTS.store pick: Malossi Kevlar Belt ($89.95)

9. Brakes

10. Pads last ~12,000 km (7,500 miles) in city use
11. Bleed brakes annually; check rotor thickness

12. Upgrade option: EBC FA188HH sintered pads ($42.50)

13. Tires

14. The 16-inch wheels allow premium rubber like Michelin City Grip 2

15. Check pressure weekly (1.8 bar front / 2.2 bar rear)

16. Electrics

17. Keep battery terminals clean; consider a trickle charger
18. LED bulb upgrades improve visibility

---

Conclusion

The Aprilia Scarabeo 125ie [2012-2015] remains a compelling choice for riders valuing style without sacrificing practicality. Its lively engine, stable chassis, and head-turning design make every errand-run feel like a Roman Holiday vignette. While not without quirks – the modest storage and basic instrumentation come to mind – its virtues overshadow these niggles.

For current owners, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from OEM-spec replacements to performance upgrades. Whether you’re refreshing the suspension with K-Tech springs ($149.99) or personalizing with color-matched body panels, we’ve got your Scarabeo covered. After all, why settle for ordinary when your scooter can be extraordinary?

---

Specifications sheet

---