India’s market for powerful scooters is booming, with models like the Yamaha Aerox 155, Hero Xoom 160, and TVS Ntorq 150 leading the charge. Aprilia, already a strong contender with its SR 160, has now upped the ante by introducing its largest scooter to date: the SR 175. We recently took it for a spin, and here are our initial thoughts.
Aprilia SR 175: Design and Styling
The SR 175 exudes classic Aprilia aggressiveness with its sharp body panels, athletic stance, and striking 14-inch alloy wheels, creating an immediate impression of stability and purpose. While resembling its smaller sibling, new color options inspired by the RS 457 truly make it stand out. The white-and-black paint scheme with vibrant orange wheels, for instance, evokes a miniature superbike aesthetic. Its LED DRLs, prominent headlamp, and the distinctive ‘a’ graphic confirm its lineage to the RS 457. The unique X-shaped LED tail-lamp also integrates seamlessly into the overall design. What’s particularly appealing is that the SR 175 achieves this bold look without feeling forced; its proportions are refined, and the design elements, including the seat and grab rail, flow cohesively. This scooter is undeniably a head-turner in city traffic.
Aprilia SR 175: Features and Build
Aprilia has significantly upgraded the SR 175’s features. It now boasts a vibrant and clear 5-inch TFT display, complete with smartphone integration for calls, message notifications, navigation, and music control. The switchgear feels robust, and the overall fit and finish are impressive.
Aprilia SR 175: Engine and Performance
At its heart, the SR 175 features a 174.7cc air-cooled engine, producing 12.9 hp and 14.14 Nm of torque. While these figures might not seem groundbreaking on paper, the scooter feels remarkably sprightly from the moment you hit the throttle. Coupled with a smooth CVT, it delivers brisk yet refined acceleration. Though not a drag-strip champion off the line, the engine truly comes alive once in motion, offering linear power delivery and minimal vibrations. It effortlessly maintains speeds above 90 kmph. The sharp, responsive throttle is particularly impressive, allowing for nimble maneuvers through urban traffic. In essence, it’s a smooth, enthusiastic engine that thoroughly enjoys being pushed.
Aprilia SR 175: Ride and Handling
Equipped with 14-inch wheels and grippy tires, the SR 175 offers exceptional cornering confidence. Its front telescopic suspension is on the firmer side, which contributes to its stable and controlled demeanor, though riders might notice bumps and potholes more keenly than on scooters with softer setups. On well-maintained roads, the scooter feels composed and predictable, making spirited rides through winding paths truly engaging. However, the firm ride can become less comfortable on uneven surfaces. The braking system is both powerful and dependable, with excellent feedback from both front and rear brakes, complemented by single-channel ABS for enhanced safety. All in all, the SR 175 instills a strong sense of confidence and security during your ride.
Aprilia SR 175: Practicality
When it comes to everyday practicality, the SR 175 has some limitations. The under-seat storage is notably compact, making it challenging to stow a full-face helmet or a substantial amount of groceries. Additionally, the floorboard isn’t spacious enough for taller riders to feel completely comfortable. While there’s a small bag hook at the front, overall carrying capacity is minimal. This scooter clearly prioritizes style and performance over utilitarian aspects.
Verdict
Priced at approximately Rs 1.17 lakh (ex-showroom), the Aprilia SR 175 occupies a unique position between premium entry-level performance scooters and high-end commuter models. It delivers an exhilarating riding experience with its aggressive styling, precise handling, and spirited performance, making even routine commutes enjoyable. While its firm ride and restricted storage are trade-offs for its sporty nature, these practical shortcomings are easily overlooked if performance and style are your top priorities. A potential consideration is Aprilia’s relatively smaller dealership network, which could impact service accessibility and spare parts availability. Nevertheless, considering its compelling blend of performance, aesthetics, and overall ride quality, the SR 175 stands as a formidable competitor in its category.
