SR 50

Since its debut in Europe in 1992, the SR50 has been one of the most popular 50cc scooters worldwide. The SR50 brought sporty style, advanced technology, and massive power for a 50cc. In 1999, the SR50 went on sale with Aprilia’s foray into the North America market, and it remained on sale throughout two generations over with 2015 being its final year here. However, if you ever find yourself in need of a hand when repairing your SR50, grab you Aprilia SR50 repair manual today.

The SR50 was arguably the first ‘sports’ scooter. Other landmark firsts accomplished by the SR50 included being the first 50 cc scooter with disc brakes and direct fuel injection. Aprilia has poured a great deal of dedication and innovation into the SR50.

There have been two generations of the SR50, with a few different versions sold during each. The first-generation SR50 was launched overseas in 1992. Initially, the SR50 was offered with a simple air-cooled carbureted motor, but in 1994, Aprilia added liquid cooling and direct fuel injection in 1999. The first-generation of SR50 was sold in both versions from 1999 to 2003. The carburated version was called the SR50, while the SR50 Ditech was the direct fuel injection model.

The 2004 model year was when Aprilia released an all-new generation of SR50 with edgier styling reminiscent of Aprilia’s flagship bike, the RSV1000. This second generation of SR50 was produced in carbureted -- SR50 R -- and direct fuel injection --SR50 R Factory -- versions, but North American customers were only offered the higher end SR50 R Factory. The second-generation SR50 also boasts a more rigid frame and a significantly improved Ditech system. Moreover, Aprilia was able to increase maintenance intervals and reduce oil consumption by 60%. Mileage, power, and starting ease were all improved in this generation as well.

In 2010, Aprilia started using a Piaggio made core engine. However, they still used the Ditech fuel system. For the 2013 model year, Aprilia offered a special edition called the Replica SBK. The SR50 was dropped for Aprilia’s Canadian line up after 2014 and from the USA line up after 2015.

The SR50 was held back in two ways. First, there was a restriction in the computer software. You could ask your dealer to switch it to ‘development’ or ‘test’ mode, which removed the performance limitations. Secondly, there was also a restriction in the drivetrain that limited the top speed of the SR50 by preventing it from reaching taller gear ratios.

The SR50 is a scooter like no other. Sporty, yet fuel-efficient, this will get you places in style. Moreover, if you ever find yourself working on your SR50, make sure you have an Aprilia SR50 Ditech service manual to make sure you get things done right.