Introduction

The Aprilia Leonardo 300

The Aprilia Leonardo 300 (2002-2004, ZD4SV) is a scooter from the Italian manufacturer Aprilia, produced between 2002 and 2004. This model belongs to the maxi-scooter category and was a further development of the Leonardo series, which was introduced in 1996.
The Leonardo 300 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 the most powerful variant of the Leonardo series and was based on the technical foundations of the Leonardo 250.

Model History

Historically, the Aprilia Leonardo 300 (2002-2004, 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 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 300 version introduced from 2002. It stands between smaller scooters like the Amico and later maxi-scooters like the Atlantic, showcasing Aprilia's focus on high-performance scooters, which continued until the takeover by Piaggio in 2004.

Technical Details

Technically, the Aprilia Leonardo 300 (2002-2004, ZD4SV) is equipped with a water-cooled 264 cc four-stroke engine, delivering about 23 hp (approximately 17 kW) at 7,500 rpm.
The engine is operated via electronic injection and is coupled with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a V-belt, allowing for easy operation. The top speed is around 130 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 148 kg and a tank volume of 9.5 liters, the Leonardo 300 was built more robustly and suitable for longer distances.

Design and Variants

The Aprilia Leonardo 300 (2002-2004, 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 300 are not documented, but the Leonardo series was offered in parallel with variants like the Leonardo 125 ST and 250, which differed by having smaller engines.
For the years 2002-2004, Aprilia focused on the standard version, with optional accessories like windshields or luggage racks available to adapt the scooter to the needs of the riders.