Mini Scooter - The Skipper LX

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Danny_Ashton]Danny Ashton

In some markets, the new Skipper is also available in the LTX 150cc version.

A well-known name for a completely new scooter. In fact the original Skipper was developed from the first "Sfera" scooter family and retained the same lines, technical content and dimensions.

The new Skipper is the result of a specific project, introducing a really innovative design and a definite leap forward in terms of technical content.

Compact and aggressive, the new Skipper is the perfect scooter for moving around town. It leaves the rest of the traffic standing while parking problems are zero.

But Skipper is also the ideal travelling companion for quick trips and medium-to-long journeys -- either alone or with a passenger -- thanks to the qualities of its engine. Dynamic performance, safety and freedom from uncertainties are guaranteed by the frame. And the slight increase in dimensions together with the new design mean that no compromise has been made in terms of ergonomics and comfort.

Today, Skipper's 2-stroke air-cooled engines give outstanding levels of performance: 14 bhp (10.3 kW) with a top speed of 102 km/h for Skipper LX, and 16.5 bhp (12.1 kW) with a top speed of 107 km/h for Skipper LXT.

The Skipper LX 125 can also be driven by those who only have a car driving license.

Compared with to the previous model, Skipper's new engines are marked by increased power and performance, in terms of acceleration as well as top speed.

These engines are fitted with a CVT automatic transmission gearbox that has revised gear ratios, capable of handling the power of the new Skipper's engines even in the typical urban prolonged "stop-and-go" situations.

The new standard capacitive discharge electronic ignition control (that doesn't require maintenance), separate petrol-oil mixing and electric start -- however there is also a kick-start -- complete the engine features.

The Skipper's weight -- a mere 105 kg kerb weight for both the 125 and the 150cc version -- is 30% lower than competitive vehicles of similar size and performance. This factor contributes significantly to the agility and handleability of the new scooter.

With its sleek, clean-lined design, the new Skipper stands out thanks to its aerodynamic body, emphasised by the "arrow-like" line running from the base of the front shield, continuing through the central tunnel area and finishing up along the flanks and rear tail end.

Seen from the front, the generously sized front shield is enhanced by the broad band of the front lighting cluster. This includes a polyelliptical-type dipped beam and a complex-surface full beam -- both fitted with 55 + 55 W halogen bulbs -- together with direction indicators.

The handlebar area features two extremely practical hand protectors that are an integral part of the bodywork. These offer high-level protection from the wind and cold while also reducing turbulence. And in addition there's a really well-equipped instrument panel that enables all of the vehicle's main functions to be kept under control.

In fact the instrument panel has a rev counter, mileometer, dipped and full-beam indicators, flashing indicators, voltmeter, battery charge indicator, fuel level and fuel reserve indicators, direction indicators, oil reserve indicator and a digital clock with date.

The handlebar controls have a new design -- "soft", both in terms of shape and materials -- with a particularly pleasant feel and include the passing control.

The Skipper's personality is emphasised by the chromatic effect generated by the combination of coloured plastic body sections and dark grey coloured techno-polymer elements together with the matt-finished luggage rack, incorporating hand grips for increased passenger safety.

The appearance of the "back-end" is further enhanced by the large rear lighting cluster.

Also the generous saddle is two-coloured and can comfortably seat both driver and passenger. Extractable metal footrests are provided for the passenger, connected to the chassis by means of steel supports that retract into the footrest board when only the driver is present.

The frame features a completely redesigned chassis that offers superb torsion and flexion resistance. This means constant safe performance whether in urban traffic or on fast trips, and even with a sporty driving style.

The 12-inch wheels are also new (the original Skipper had 10-inch wheels). They are manufactured using die-cast aluminium alloy and are equipped with low-profile tubelefor sale, landlord services such as eviction packages, same day accountantfor sale, landlord services such as eviction packages, same day accountant and a 140 mm diameter rear drum brake.

Skipper is also decidedly comfortable from the load transport standpoint: the compartment beneath the two-seater saddle is particularly spacious and among other things can hold an integral crash helmet.

Standard equipment on the new Piaggio scooter includes a lockable storage compartment in the central tunnel and also a practical bag hook on the inside of the front shield.

The Skipper's LX and LXT colour range includes Sun Yellow and Black (pastel colours), Pamplona Red, Cloud Blue (metallic) and Slate Grey (iridescent).

Options available include colour-matched top box, windshield, hood and electronic anti-theft device. [http://modvespa.com] Mini Motor scooter [http://modvespa.com] Gas scooter