Aprilia SportCity 300 Cube (2008-current)

Maximising the performance of the smaller block engine is a good move for the Aprilia SportCity Cube. Keeping unsprung weight to a minimum allows for more reactive suspension over the potholed minefields that city councils laughably refer to as streets. With the new engine, power has been shifted lower down the rev range, producing 1Nm more torque. This does more for the Aprilia SportCity Cube’s acceleration than it does for top speed.   

The Aprilia SportCity has always had a stiff, fine-handling chassis despite the mono-tube frame being arched under a truly flat floor, but the frame was always quite heavy, particularly for the 125cc version. But the new Aprilia SportCity Cube is a joy to ride: nippy, responsive and very good on the brakes thanks to twin 260mm discs on the front wheel. The Cube’s 15” wheels sport high-profile tyres aimed at further improving the scooter’s manners on poor surfaces compared to lower-profile rubber used on larger wheels.

Apart from the engine change, the Aprilia SportCity Cube has had a host of other changes over the old SportCity: The helmet bay under the seat has been slightly enlarged, though it will still only take a ‘jet’ helmet and not a full-face. The seat maintains its 815mm height, but is now broader and fitted with a grippier cover. Also there is a longer, integral alloy rack and passenger grab handle. Compare and buy parts for the SportCity in the MCN Shop.