Scooter Motorcycle
Top picks
By Catherine Bruce
Review of the Sanyang HD 200
As a novice scooterist, I was intent on purchasing the most fuel-efficient, cost-effective, stylish and functional mode of transport that a man (or woman) about town with a greenhouse conscience would find attractive. So, I spent the last 12 months devouring magazines and researching the best scooter deals for a beginner. Needles to say, I wasn't after an intergalactic cruiser or Ninja speed jet.
The humble SYM HD 200 sold by Bolwell (in reality 171cc) absolutely delivers the goods with a 4-year warranty, 8L fuel capacity, 16-inch wheels for stability and a greatly reduced onroad package deal. I scoured scooter mags, Australian based stores, US and UK net reviews and quite honestly, this elegant beauty won hands down. Keep in mind it was followed very closely by the Arriba XS, which has a slightly smaller wheel diameter.
The HD's controls are easily accessible without twisting and searching for hidden ignition switches and without overly stylized touches (that excessively priced models are renowned for) - chic, yet affordable.
I compared scoots like the Vespa LX,GT; Bug Orion 200; Piaggio Liberty 200; heavyweight Suzuki Bergman 400; TGB F409 150cc; Arriba XS 150; Aprilia Sportcity and Scarabeo 250; Daelim 125; Peugeot Jetforce 125; Honda 125; Yamaha Aerox 100; Bee Wee 100; Cygnus and Vino 125.
Although they had definite strengths and weaknesses, the HD won out in overall classic appearance / style (nothing too quirky or eccentric about this solid scoot), reasonable power output (4 stroke - no mixing oils or high pitched screams audible in the next suburb), larger wheels (as opposed to the standard 12 inch for stability and handling), comfortable seat height (which can be marginally adjusted), availability of parts and cheap, CHEAP servicing. In short, I based my decision on the following factors:
- Complete onroad cost
- Servicing and availability of replacement parts
- Seat height
- Wheel size
- Power output in cubic centimeters (ccs)
- Ability to get up hills and around corners
- Overall weight
- Functionality and design
- Fuel capacity
- Under seat storage - yes, the HD will snuggly fit a full face helmet!
- Application of good-sized top box (at least 35L for a jacket or backpack)
- Obligatory shopping hook for the milk, bread and video
The beauty of a practical scoot (compared to a sports motorcycle) is that you don’t need to personally carry around headgear and jackets, or plastic ponchos & vinyl washing gloves for those wet days – they’re self-contained within the scoot.
| Write A Comment |
It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!
PIMP IT
If you love your car, you’ve got treat it right – stock will never do for your hot wheels! Whether it’s for performance or just for the look, aftermarket parts can turn that car you just brought home into your own pimp ride.
