In China, Aprilia just debuted the SR Max 250 HPE maxi-scooter. The ‘HPE’ suffix stands for High-Performance Edition, and the scooter sports a more aggressive bodywork and a wider windscreen than the normal model offered in China.
The Aprilia SR Max 250 is powered by a 244cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing 26 horsepower and 22 Nm of peak torque.
In comparison, the Keyway Viste 300i, which is offered in India, has a 278-cc engine that produces 18.8 horsepower and 22 Nm of maximum torque. The Aprilia SR Max 250 has two ride modes: Eco and Sport, as well as a traction control system as standard.
The only remaining question is whether it will make it to India.
Aprilia now sells the SR and SXR models, as well as a number of other motorcycles, in India.
Motorcycles arrive in the Indian market as CBUs, whereas scooters are built in-house, providing them a price edge.
Given how fresh the maxi-scooter industry is in India, the Italian two-wheeler maker is unlikely to bring the Aprilia SR Max 250 or Aprilia SR Max 250 HPE here.
Keeway currently sells the Vieste 300i, which has a single-cylinder engine that produces 19 bhp, while BMW sells the C 400 GT, which produces 33 bhp but costs a stunning Rs 10.80 lakh ex-showroom.
The Aprilia SR Max 250 HPE costs the equivalent of Rs 3.15 lakh in China (direct conversion).
While it is unlikely to be launched in India at this time, the scooter is an intriguing option that could compete with the recently launched Keeway Vieste 300 and Sixties 300i.
