Introduction

Aprilia - Area 51 50 (2000, ZD4MY)

The Aprilia Area 51 50 (model year 2000) is a sporty 50 cc scooter with a futuristic design, produced by the Italian manufacturer Aprilia. Building on the first generation introduced in 1999, the model retained its distinctive styling and technical features that clearly set it apart from conventional scooters.
With its unique style reminiscent of science-fiction elements, the Area 51 continued to appeal to young riders looking for an innovative and powerful vehicle.

Model History

The Aprilia Area 51 was introduced in the late 1990s as a radically new scooter concept. Its name, inspired by the mysterious “Area 51” test site in the USA, underscored the avant-garde ambitions of the vehicle.
The 2000 model year brought minor detail changes and new colour options while retaining the core technical concept of the 1999 version.
Aprilia positioned the Area 51 as a trendsetter in the 50 cc segment – featuring a fully faired chassis, a sporty riding position, and technology ahead of its time.

Technical Details

The Aprilia Area 51 50 (2000, 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. The carburetted engine ensures direct throttle response and easy maintenance.
Top speed is around 45 km/h in restricted form, with unrestricted versions capable of much higher speeds.
Power is transmitted via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Chassis and Brakes

The chassis is based on an aluminium frame combined with a sport-tuned telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear, providing agile and precise handling.
The braking system features disc brakes at both the front and rear (190 mm each), which was exceptional in the 50 cc class at the time and ensured very good stopping power.
With a dry weight of around 92 kg and a wheelbase of 1,295 mm, the Area 51 offers a stable yet agile ride.
Tyre sizes are 120/70-13 at the front and 130/60-13 at the rear.

Colour Variants

The 2000 model year of the Aprilia Area 51 50 (ZD4MY) was available in several striking colours, including silver, black, and neon shades such as orange or yellow.
New decal designs with updated graphics complemented the range, although no official limited-edition models are documented.
Many units were individually customised to further emphasise the scooter’s futuristic character.