Riding the Mio 50:
In the US, all scooters under 50cc need to be restricted to a max speed of 30mp/h in order for them to be legally ridden just with a car drivers license, without having to get a special motorcycle license. So when it comes to comparing different models, one has to de-restrict the models to get a more accurate idea of how they actually perform. After removing the governor from a Mio 50, the realtively good response and accelleration is pretty impressive. The Mio 50 has no trouble hitting 40mp/h which is sufficient for little round town trips. Of course the standard punishment for taking steep hills, meaning a slow down to about 20-25mp/h, is part of the package for a 49cc scooter and to expected. The gasoline mileage is amazing with well over 100 mp/g. The scooter is extremely silent and a very comfortable ride. The footpegs for a second passenger of course are, although well designed and functional, more for decorative pruposes unless the passenger doesn't weigh more than 20lbs. Impressive was the light during night time. the 35W halogen headlight produces more light than what usually emmitts from 49cc scooters. the storage compartment under the seat cofortably holds a helmet and then some. The brakes are very responsive, mainly because the front brake is a disc brake. The instrument panel is cute and well designed. Everything is visible at a glimpse: speedometer, odometer, gasoline gauge and even an oil change indicator is included to help remind the rider when it is time to change the engine oil. The scooter makes a very sturdy and dependable impression. The materials seem solid and after the scooter was knowcked over by a car, there were no visible scratches anywhere. The only negative point was that there is no extra luggage rack and it seems to be difficult to install one because of the position of the gas tank cap. All together the SYM Mio is a very attractive little 49cc scooter which is a lot more solid built than most other scooters in this category.
SPECS
Engine size: 49cc / 4-stroke engine w/2 valves
Top speed: 30mp/h restricted, 40mp/h derestricted
Ceramic coated cylinder
12V electric system with electric starter
headlight: 35/35W, taillight 15/25W
tire size: 10"
Brakes: Front dic, rear drum
Suspension: front: telescopic fork, rear: mono spring/shock
weight: 165lbs
Warranty: 2 year manufacturers warranty
MSRP: $2268
