Introduction

Aprilia Leonardo 250 (2002-2003, ZD4SV)

The Aprilia Leonardo 250 is a scooter from the Italian manufacturer Aprilia, produced between 2002 and 2003. This model belongs to the maxi-scooter category and was a further development of the Leonardo series, which was introduced in 1996.
The Leonardo 250 was designed as a comfortable and powerful vehicle for urban and suburban use, targeting riders seeking a scooter with high performance and touring capability. It represented a revised version of the earlier Leonardo 250 (1999-2001) and solidified Aprilia's position in the larger scooter segment.

Model History

Historically, the Aprilia Leonardo 250 (2002-2003, ZD4SV) belongs to the second phase of the Leonardo series, which began in 1996 with the 125 and 150 models and was expanded in 1999 with the first 250 version (ZD4PD00).
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).
After models like the Gulliver and Rally, the Leonardo series was developed, with the 2002-2003 version bringing technical and visual adjustments. It stands between smaller scooters like the Amico and later maxi-scooters like the Atlantic, showcasing Aprilia's focus on versatile, powerful scooters following the acquisition by Piaggio in 2004.

Technical Details

Technically, the Aprilia Leonardo 250 (2002-2003, ZD4SV) is equipped with a water-cooled 249 cc four-stroke engine, delivering about 20 hp (approximately 14.7 kW) at 7,500 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 125 km/h.
The frame consists of a sturdy steel tube construction, the suspension includes a telescopic fork at the front and a swingarm with a shock absorber at the rear. The braking system consists of a front disc brake (220 mm diameter) and a rear disc brake (190 mm diameter), providing improved braking performance.
With a dry weight of about 145 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 9.5 liters, the Leonardo 250 was robustly built and suitable for longer distances.

Design and Variants

The Aprilia Leonardo 250 (2002-2003, ZD4SV) 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 250 are not documented, but the Leonardo series was offered alongside variants like the Leonardo 125 ST and 150, which differed by having smaller engines.
For the years 2002-2003, Aprilia focused on the standard version, with optional accessories such as windshields or luggage racks available to adapt the scooter to the riders' needs.