Introduction

Aprilia - Leonardo 125 (1998, ZD4MB00)

The Aprilia Leonardo 125 (model code ZD4MB00) is a stylish and practical 125 cc scooter known for its stable ride and everyday usability. It’s aimed at riders looking for a balanced combination of comfort, performance and urban reliability – with added capability for short-distance touring.
Upon launch, the Leonardo positioned itself as a modern alternative to traditional scooters by combining advanced features with practical design.

Model History

The Leonardo series was introduced by Aprilia in the mid-1990s as a modern 125 cc platform and underwent several refinements over the years.
The 1998 version was equipped with modern features such as liquid cooling, disc brakes, and a comfortable suspension setup – distinguishing it from basic city scooters.
The model code “ZD4MB00” identifies a specific configuration in Aprilia’s internal lineup, likely one of the earlier production batches of the Leonardo series.

Technical Details

The Leonardo 125 is powered by a **liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine**, designed for smooth operation and reduced emissions.
It produces approximately **12 hp (8.8 kW)** at around 8,800 rpm, with maximum torque rated at roughly **12 Nm**.
Power is delivered via a **CVT automatic transmission** with belt drive.
Top speed is about **103 km/h**, giving the scooter ample performance for city and suburban use.
Dry weight is approximately **139 kg**, and the fuel tank holds around **9.3 litres**, including reserve.

Chassis and Brakes

The scooter features a **tubular steel frame**, providing a stable base for both city and light touring rides.
Front suspension is handled by a telescopic fork, and the rear features dual shock absorbers.
Braking is handled by a **220 mm disc brake at the front** and a **190 mm disc at the rear**, delivering strong and reliable stopping power.
Tyres are sized at **120/70‑12 (front)** and **140/70‑12 (rear)**, with suspension travel rated at approximately 90 mm (front) and 80 mm (rear).

Color Variants

The Leonardo 125 was available in a range of classic factory finishes, including silver, black, blue, and white – depending on the market.
Graphic details and decals varied slightly by model year, but no special or limited editions are officially documented for 1998.
Many owners enhanced their scooters with aftermarket accessories such as top cases, windshields, or comfort seats to make them even more versatile for everyday use.