HONDA ZOOMER 50 (2005-2012) Review

Absolutely terrible. Looks can be subjective but performance is unacceptable, bordering on dangerous. Money best spent elsewhere.

I had two Zoomers, one from new and the other an ex-demo. Suffice to say, it's the only vehicle (2 wheels or 4) that I ever bought another of the same model. You can ride on a car licence with no L plates, and they're dead reliable BUT also dead slow! They will max out on the flat at a dangerously low 26mph. Buy the Polini variator kit (only about £35), fit in about 30 mins and get your speed up to a much safer 35-40mph. Handling is good in snow / gravel but the supplied Kenda tyres are deadly in the wet! Also the rear suspension is not adjustable and quite soft, so expect to bottom out regularly unless you're a featherweight. Overall, I'd recommend.

I wanted a Zoomer as I have an version to Vespas - I wanted something a little different - and the Zoomer is exactly that. Plus I always see Vespas with their seats busted by kids looking to see what's underneath - beauty of the Zoomer is that there's nothing to hide, so there's minimal opportunity for vandalism. Engine is smooth, efficient (100 mpg+), but tops out at 34mph with the restrictor removed (most second hand bikes have had this done, costs c. £150). So it's fine if riding in town / traffic but too slow if travelling real distance. Style is 10/10. Only drawback is suspension and braking - which are fine - but you do feel the bumps and brakes are drums, so you just need to yank them a bit harder. Grip not been a problem and it starts everytime on a frosty morning. Costs me £4.15 to fill up... Great bike. great fun and worth the little premium in price if only to make Vespa riders jealous. Plus they keep their value very well vs other rides.