Introduction

Aprilia SR 50 R-Factory (2005, ZD4VFB00)

The sporty scooter was produced by the Italian manufacturer Aprilia in 2005. It belongs to the SR 50 series, which has been known for its technological innovations and dynamic design since its introduction in 1992. The SR 50 R-Factory was positioned as a premium variant within this model range, targeting riders seeking a powerful and stylish vehicle in the 50cc class, which can be ridden in many countries with a moped or AM license.

History of the SR 50 Series

The SR 50 series started in 1992 and quickly established itself as a pioneer in the sporty scooter segment. The SR 50 R-Factory (2005, ZD4VFB00) belongs to the third generation, introduced from 2004 under the leadership of the Piaggio Group, which acquired Aprilia in the same year. This generation brought a new design and technical improvements, with the "R-Factory" variant standing out as the top model. It combined elements of the earlier Di-Tech models (from 1999) with a revised appearance and features inspired by Aprilia's racing tradition. The ZD4VFB00 was offered alongside other variants like the SR 50 R but differed in details such as injection technology and higher-quality equipment. During this time, Aprilia solidified its reputation as a leading manufacturer in competition with brands like Yamaha and Peugeot.

Technical Details

Engine and Performance

Technically, the Aprilia SR 50 R-Factory (2005, ZD4VFB00) is powered by a single-cylinder two-stroke engine with a displacement of 49cc. The engine is liquid-cooled and features a direct injection system (Di-Tech), allowing for more efficient combustion and lower emissions compared to conventional carburetors. The power output is about 4 kW (5.4 hp) at 7,000 rpm, with the top speed restricted to about 45 km/h, though it can be higher when derestricted, depending on the registration. The vehicle is equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for easy operation.

Chassis and Brakes

The chassis includes a hydraulic telescopic fork at the front with 90 mm of travel and a single shock absorber at the rear, providing the scooter with sporty driving stability. The braking system consists of a 190 mm diameter disc brake at the front and a 140 mm drum brake at the rear, ensuring reliable deceleration. With a dry weight of about 106 kg and a wheelbase of 1,290 mm, the SR 50 R-Factory offers good maneuverability in urban environments. The tires, sized 130/60-13 at both front and rear, emphasize the sporty character and provide sufficient grip.

Design and Variants

The Aprilia SR 50 R-Factory (2005, ZD4VFB00) was available in several color variants, which varied depending on the market. Common paint finishes include "Nero Aprilia" (Black), "Rosso Ibis" (Red), and "Bianco Glam" (White), often combined with racing-inspired graphics that emphasized the "Factory" character. There are indications that the R-Factory, as a standalone variant, already represented a kind of special model, as it stood out from the base SR 50 R with technical and visual features. Specific limited editions like those in later models (e.g., "Replica SBK") are not documented for the ZD4VFB00 from 2005. The focus was on high-quality series production, with regional dealers possibly making individual customizations.