Introduction

Aprilia - Area 51 50 (1999, ZD4MY)

The Aprilia Area 51 50 is a futuristically designed sports scooter produced in 1999 by the Italian manufacturer Aprilia. It stands out for its innovative design and technical features, which clearly set it apart from the traditional scooter shapes of the time.
With a striking look reminiscent of science-fiction elements and modern technology, the Area 51 was aimed at young riders seeking a distinctive and powerful vehicle in the 50 cc class.

Model History

The Aprilia Area 51 was introduced in the late 1990s as a radical reinterpretation of the scooter concept. Its name, inspired by the legendary “Area 51” test site in the USA, was intended to emphasise the innovative and avant-garde nature of the model.
The 1999 model year (ZD4MY) belongs to the first and only generation of this series, which was produced for only a few years.
Aprilia positioned the Area 51 as a trendsetter in the scooter segment – featuring a fully faired chassis, a sporty riding position, and a design that reflected the turn-of-the-millennium zeitgeist.

Technical Details

The Aprilia Area 51 50 (1999, ZD4MY) is powered by a liquid-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke engine with a displacement of 49 cc.
The engine produces around 3.8 kW (5.2 hp) at 7,000 rpm and is equipped with a carburettor, ensuring direct throttle response and easy maintenance.
Top speed, depending on restriction, is around 45 km/h, with unrestricted versions capable of significantly higher speeds.
Power is transmitted via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Chassis and Brakes

The chassis is based on an aluminium frame with a sport-tuned telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear, providing precise handling.
The braking system features disc brakes both front and rear (190 mm each) – an exceptional feature for the 50 cc class – ensuring excellent stopping power.
With a dry weight of around 92 kg and a wheelbase of 1,295 mm, the Area 51 is stable yet agile in urban traffic.
Tyres are sized 120/70-13 at the front and 130/60-13 at the rear.

Colour Variants

The Aprilia Area 51 50 (1999, ZD4MY) was available in striking colour schemes that highlighted its futuristic design – including silver, black, and neon shades such as orange or yellow.
There were also special graphic designs for certain markets, although no official limited editions are documented.
Many units were customised by their owners to further emphasise the unique character of this model.