Introduction

Aprilia Leonardo 150 (1996-1998, ZD4MB)

The Aprilia Leonardo 150 is a scooter from the Italian manufacturer Aprilia, produced between 1996 and 1998. This model belongs to the maxi-scooter category and was one of the first variants of the Leonardo series, introduced in 1996.
The Leonardo 150 was designed as a comfortable and powerful vehicle for urban and suburban use, targeting riders seeking a scooter with more power and convenience than typical 50cc models. It marked Aprilia's entry into the larger scooter segment and was offered alongside the Leonardo 125.

Model History

Historically, the Aprilia Leonardo 150 stands at the beginning of the Leonardo series, which debuted in 1996. Aprilia, founded in 1945 by Alberto Beggio as a bicycle manufacturer, transformed under Ivano Beggio from the 1960s into a motorcycle producer and began scooter production in the 1980s through collaboration with Rotax, starting with the Amico (1990).
Following models like the Gulliver and Rally, Aprilia introduced the Leonardo series in 1996, with the 150 version being a more powerful alternative to the Leonardo 125. It sits between smaller scooters like the Amico and later maxi-scooters like the Atlantic, showcasing Aprilia's effort to expand the mid-sized scooter segment before the brand was acquired by Piaggio in 2004.

Technical Details

Technically, the Aprilia Leonardo 150 is equipped with a water-cooled 150cc four-stroke engine, delivering about 12 hp (approximately 8.8 kW) at 8,000 rpm. The engine is carbureted and paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a belt drive, allowing for easy operation.
The top speed is around 105 km/h. The frame consists of a sturdy steel tube construction, with suspension including a telescopic fork at the front and a swingarm with a shock absorber at the rear. The braking system features a front disc brake (220 mm diameter) and a rear drum brake. With a dry weight of about 132 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 9.5 liters, the Leonardo 150 was robustly built and suitable for longer distances.

Color Variants and Accessories

The Aprilia Leonardo 150 was offered in several colors, including black, silver, blue, and red, with exact availability varying by market. This color variety emphasized the modern and appealing style of the scooter.
Official special models of the Leonardo 150 are not documented, but the Leonardo series was later expanded with variants like the Leonardo 125 and 250, differing in engine sizes. For the years 1996-1998, Aprilia focused on the standard version, with optional accessories such as windshields or luggage racks available to adapt the scooter to the riders' needs.