History and Development
Origin and Manufacturer
The Aprilia Scarabeo 50 (4-stroke, 2002, ZD4TG0) is a scooter produced in 2002 by the Italian manufacturer Aprilia. Founded in 1945 by Alberto Beggio as a bicycle factory, Aprilia developed into a significant producer of motorcycles and scooters under the leadership of his son Ivano Beggio from the 1960s onwards.
Scarabeo Model Range
The Scarabeo 50 (ZD4TG0) belongs to the Scarabeo model range, which was introduced in 1993 with the first Scarabeo 50 (2-stroke) and was characterized by an elegant, classic design with large wheels. While Aprilia was also known for sporty models like the RS series in the early 2000s, the Scarabeo 50 4-stroke introduced a more environmentally friendly alternative that combined retro aesthetics with practical everyday usability. Its production year 2002 falls after Aprilia's acquisition of Laverda and Moto Guzzi in 2000 and shortly before its integration into the Piaggio Group in 2004.
Technical Details
Engine and Performance
Technically, the Aprilia Scarabeo 50 (4-stroke, ZD4TG0) is equipped with a 49 cc four-stroke engine that is air-cooled and carburetor-operated. This engine delivers a power output of about 2.8 hp (2.1 kW) and is designed for a top speed of around 45 km/h, in accordance with legal requirements for mopeds.
Chassis and Brakes
Power transmission is via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), making the scooter particularly beginner-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 (190 mm) and a rear drum brake.
Design and Features
With a dry weight of about 95 kg and a fuel tank capacity of around 8 liters, the Scarabeo 50 is designed for agility and efficiency in urban traffic. Its design with 16-inch wheels, rounded shapes, and a large round headlight emphasizes the classic look of the Scarabeo line.
Colors and Special Models
The Aprilia Scarabeo 50 (4-stroke, ZD4TG0) was painted in several colors that underscored its elegant and timeless style. Available paint finishes included black, white, red, and blue, often in solid or subtle metallic tones that highlighted the scooter's retro character.
Special Models
Regarding special models, there are no clear indications that Aprilia released special or limited editions of the Scarabeo 50 (ZD4TG0) in 2002. The Scarabeo range was later expanded with various engine sizes and technical variants, but the 4-stroke version from 2002 remained largely uniform in its execution.