Summary

• Yamaha’s 2023 scooter lineup includes the Zuma 125 and XMAX, both great choices for urban use with key differences that may influence a buyer’s decision.
• The Zuma 125 is user-friendly, affordable, and beginner-friendly, with ample storage space, an easy-to-read display, and practical features like a lockable cover.
• The XMAX is marketed as a premium scooter with premium looks, modern technology, and rider aids like traction control and ABS. It offers larger storage space, better suspension, and a more powerful engine.

Motorcycles and scooters have been widely used in urban areas for over a century. The first bicycle was invented by Karl von Drais de Sauerbrun in 1817, followed by the first motorized scooter or Autoped created by Arthur Hugo and Joseph Merkel in the late 19th century. Since then, motorcycles and scooters have evolved, with motorcycles excelling in applications like off-roading and long distance traveling, while scooters have remained practical and accessible for urban commuting with their compact and lightweight design.

Yamaha’s 2023 scooter lineup consists of two models: the Zuma 125 and the XMAX. Both are suitable for urban use, but they have key differences that may impact a buyer’s decision. In this article, we will explore these scooters in detail, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages to help potential customers make an informed choice.

All technical specifications and features for the XMAX and Zuma 125 mentioned here were provided by Yamaha. Fuel economy data is estimated based on information from owners available on Fuelly.com.

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The 2023 Yamaha Zuma 125

Scooters are generally more affordable than other motorcycles, making them a practical choice for everyday use. The Yamaha Zuma 125 is beginner-friendly and user-friendly. It features a V-belt automatic transmission, an electric starter, and a standard center and side stand. The ignition switch has a locking cover to provide security when the scooter is parked on the streets. The Zuma 125 follows the traditional “step-through” scooter design, allowing the rider to easily place their feet on the floorboard in front of the seat. It also offers ample storage space, including a storage compartment under the seat that can accommodate a full-face helmet. Additionally, there is a smaller storage compartment at the front with a USB socket for charging devices while riding. The Zuma 125 is equipped with an LCD display that shows the fuel gauge, indicator lights, and speedometer, which are all easily readable even in daylight.

The Zuma 125 offers a comfortable riding position with a narrow seat design, allowing the rider to easily touch the ground with both feet. There is plenty of legroom in front of the seat, and the rear passenger has dedicated footrests and handholds. The scooter is equipped with a telescopic front fork and twin rear shocks for smooth and controlled suspension. It features a steel-tube frame and comes with “heavy-duty” tubeless tires mounted on small 12-inch lightweight wheels. The braking system, similar to the XMAX, consists of discs both at the front (245mm) and rear (230mm), with the brakes working together even if only one is used by the rider. The Zuma 125 is significantly lighter than the XMAX, weighing 282 pounds.

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The 2023 Yamaha XMAX

The XMAX is marketed as a Sport Scooter by Yamaha, featuring a liquid-cooled engine. It has a striking design with aggressive lines and signature X-shaped LED headlights. The XMAX is designed to provide a premium riding experience, offering modern convenience and technology. It is equipped with an automatic CVT transmission and comes with rider aids such as traction control and ABS. The frame of the XMAX is lightweight and designed to provide neutral handling, making it suitable for new riders who desire a more spirited ride than what a 125cc engine can offer.

The XMAX boasts a larger underseat storage compartment capable of holding two full-face helmets. It also features two additional storage compartments in the fairing, one of which includes a 12V DC outlet. The XMAX utilizes LED lighting to enhance its design and improve visibility on the road.

The XMAX comes with standard anti-lock braking system. It utilizes a 267mm front and 245mm rear disc brakes to provide reliable braking power. The scooter features large wheels, with a 15-inch front and a 14-inch rear, fitted with Dunlop tires for optimal grip in various weather conditions. The XMAX utilizes a lightweight steel frame and has a wet weight of 397 pounds. Its front fork is bolted to the steering stem at both the top and bottom triple clamps, providing strength, chassis rigidity, and improved shock absorption.

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Engine Specs And Fuel Economy

Both the Zuma 125 and XMAX are equipped with single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, internal combustion engines. However, the XMAX has a larger displacement compared to the Zuma 125.

2023 Yamaha’s Scooters Engine Specs

According to data from Fuelly.com, the Zuma 125 has an average fuel economy of 77.3 MPG, while the XMAX achieves an average of 70.2 MPG. With its larger fuel tank, the XMAX offers a greater range between refueling.

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The Price And Verdict

Both the XMAX and Zuma 125 are excellent scooters, each with its own distinctive characteristics. The XMAX offers a more assertive and aggressive presence on the road, better suspension, and a more powerful engine, making it suitable for riders seeking a spirited ride. Its available cargo space is also advantageous. On the other hand, the Zuma 125 is impressively engineered for an entry-level scooter, with its tiny engine boasting features like fuel injection, liquid cooling, and variable valve timing. The XMAX has a starting MSRP of $6,099, while the Zuma 125 is much more affordable, starting at $3,799.

Ultimately, the choice between these scooters will depend on individual needs. However, objectively speaking, if highway riding is not a frequent requirement, the Zuma 125 offers an excellent value proposition that is hard to beat.