Background and Development

History of Aprilia

The Aprilia Scarabeo 200 (1999-2004, ZD4SD) is a scooter produced by the Italian manufacturer Aprilia between 1999 and 2004. Founded in 1945 by Alberto Beggio as a bicycle manufacturer, Aprilia developed into a significant player in the motorcycle and scooter industry under the leadership of his son Ivano Beggio from the 1960s onwards.

Introduction of the Scarabeo Model Range

The Scarabeo 200 is part of the Scarabeo model range, which was introduced in 1993 with the Scarabeo 50, characterized by an elegant design with large wheels. While Aprilia was also known for sporty models like the RS series in the late 1990s, the Scarabeo 200 expanded the range into the 200cc class, targeting riders seeking a stylish and practical scooter with more power for longer distances.

Acquisitions and Expansion

Its production period coincides with a phase when Aprilia acquired the brands Laverda and Moto Guzzi in 2000, before the company was taken over by the Piaggio Group in 2004.

Technical Details

Engine and Performance

Technically, the Aprilia Scarabeo 200 (ZD4SD) features a 181cc four-stroke engine, liquid-cooled and equipped with a carburetor. This engine, a Rotax single-cylinder, delivers about 18 hp and is designed for a top speed of around 110 km/h, depending on regulatory conditions.

Transmission and Chassis

Power is transmitted via a continuously variable transmission (CVT), making the scooter particularly user-friendly. The chassis includes a telescopic fork at the front and a single shock absorber at the rear. The braking system consists of a front disc brake (260 mm) and a rear disc brake (220 mm).

Design and Features

With a dry weight of about 140 kg and a fuel tank capacity of around 8 liters, the Scarabeo 200 is suitable for both urban use and longer rides. Its design with 16-inch wheels, rounded shapes, and a large round headlight gives it a classic and timeless appearance.

Colors and Models

Paint Finishes

The Aprilia Scarabeo 200 (ZD4SD) was painted in several colors that emphasized its elegant and classic style. Available paint finishes included black, silver, blue, and red, often in metallic tones, giving the scooter a high-quality appearance.

Special Models

Regarding special models, there are no clear indications that Aprilia released special or limited editions of the Scarabeo 200 (ZD4SD) during the production years 1999 to 2004. Although the Scarabeo range was expanded with different engine capacities and later design variations, the 200cc version of these years remained largely uniform in its execution.